Quick_Service

Subway’s unit volumes hit an 8-year high in 2021

By Jonathan Maze on Feb. 22, 2022

The sandwich giant’s average unit volumes were their highest since 2014 and same-store sales were flat compared with 2019. But hundreds of stores are still closing.

Leadership

Big Burger King franchisee Carrols names Paulo Pena CEO

By Jonathan Maze on Feb. 22, 2022

The former McDonald’s executive will take over for Dan Accordino, who is retiring after a 50-year career.

Financing

McDonald’s pushes back against Carl Icahn

By Jonathan Maze on Feb. 20, 2022

The investor has ignited a proxy fight against the burger giant over the treatment of pigs. But the company is wondering why Icahn isn’t making the same recommendation to a pork supply business he owns.

Premium

Financing

How Burger King plans to improve franchisees’ profits

By Jonathan Maze on Feb. 18, 2022

The Bottom Line: Recent sales weakness along with cost increases have taken a bite out of profitability. The company says it is working to get them back.

Premium

Financing

Tim Hortons sees a brighter future in the U.S.

By Jonathan Maze on Feb. 16, 2022

The Bottom Line: The coffee-and-doughnut chain, which has struggled to get a footing south of the border, believes it has the right concept to begin growing again.

Financing

Chicken sandwich competition takes a bite out of Popeyes

By Jonathan Maze on Feb. 15, 2022

But the chain’s sales improved last quarter and it remains in a much stronger position than it was three years ago.

Financing

The new Burger King will have fewer menu items, but more Whopper

By Jonathan Maze on Feb. 15, 2022

The burger chain under Tom Curtis is overhauling operations, adding new field staff and analytics capabilities. It is also cutting menu items and plans a big focus on its core menu.

Financing

Firehouse Subs ends a big year on a strong note

By Jonathan Maze on Feb. 15, 2022

The sub chain, bought for $1 billion by Burger King owner Restaurant Brands International, generated nearly 25% two-year same-store sales in the fourth quarter.

Financing