finance

The International Franchise Association goes on offense

By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 23, 2023

The trade group, which has spent much of its time in recent years pushing back against regulations, is touring cities in the hope of building a better reputation for franchising.

Financing

Nelson Peltz opts not to buy Wendy’s as the company reorganizes

By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 13, 2023

The burger chain’s largest shareholder and chairman opted not to seek a deal for the company. Kurt Kane, the burger chain's U.S. president, is leaving as part of a broad corporate restructuring.

Financing

Portillo’s learns its opening lesson

By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 13, 2023

More ICR tidbits: The Italian beef and hot dog chain shows why soft opens are important; some skepticism on the Red Robin grills plan; El Pollo Loco wants more kids and an unexpected interruption.

Financing

Chicago brand Portillo’s gets a warm welcome in the South

By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 11, 2023

The hot dog and Italian beef chain is opening most of its new locations in Southern states like Florida, Arizona and Texas, where its restaurants have performed well.

Financing

Rosser Capital invests in Kitchen Social

By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 11, 2023

The private equity firm is backing a three-unit upscale concept founded by the former CEO of Bravo Brio Restaurant Group.

Premium

Financing

Here’s why Krispy Kreme is selling doughnuts at McDonald’s

By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 09, 2023

The doughnut chain is testing the sale of its products inside the burger giant’s Louisville, Ky., locations. The company’s goal is to see if it can sell in more locations than just retailers.

Financing

Red Robin to invest in new grills as part of turnaround effort

By Joe Guszkowski on Jan. 09, 2023

The flat-top grills are expected to improve the chain’s burgers. They’re part of a five-point “north star” developed by new CEO G.J. Hart.

Financing

A big Burger King franchisee declares bankruptcy

By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 05, 2023

TOMS King Holdings, which operates 90 locations in Illinois, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Virginia, blamed the pandemic for hurting traffic and inflation for draining cash flow.

Operations