Jonathan Maze

Editor-in-Chief

Articles by
Jonathan Maze

Page 33
Technology

To convince franchisees to adopt new technology, think like a marketer

At FSTEC, franchisors say getting system buy-in on tech means making them part of the decision process. But sometimes you have to say no to new tech, too.

Financing

McDonald's franchisees are angry over the California compromise

Some operators say they were left out of discussions on a matter that could hurt per-store cash flow by $250,000 in the state. But the company said the deal will protect the franchise model without a costly fight.

The Bottom Line: Some executives of franchise chains are also franchisees. “I feel the pain when I make a decision to bring something in.”

While concepts are adding new digital ordering technology, robots or even AI, executives work to keep their focus on the customer.

Price increases and slowing inflation have combined to improve cash flow among the pizza chain’s operators this year.

The Bottom Line: Fast-food restaurants will have to pay $20 an hour under a compromise reached this week. How will operators pay for it?

The former CEO and chairman emeritus is no longer company director as part of a planned transition. Wei Zhang, former Alibaba senior advisor, will take on the role.

After years of steady decline, the fast-casual brand appears to be in a death spiral of unpaid bills, legal filings and angry customers. Even in a world as forgiving as restaurants, it may be impossible for the chain to come back.

A Deeper Dive: Andy Howard, CEO of the fast-casual chain, joins the podcast to talk about the company’s growth plans and consumer demand for chicken.

The state has lifted its stop-work order, saying that employees have been repaid. Restaurants are expected to reopen this week as deliveries come in.

The pizza chain is reducing how much customers need to spend to earn points and will let customers earn points earlier. It is the latest fast-food company to upgrade its loyalty program, which has become a key marketing tool.

Jay Pandya took over Corner Bakery during the pandemic in 2020. He demanded tough cost cuts, and refused to pay bills. Employees left in droves. Workers were locked out of stores. And the company’s lender accused him of using the company as a “piggy bank.”

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