News

By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 28, 2022

The Bottom Line: The company has not added locations since 2014. After closing another 239 locations in 2021 it has the smallest number of units in 20 years.

Operations

Applebee’s, IHOP head to the UAE amid renewed development push

By Joe Guszkowski on Jan. 28, 2022

The first location will open in Dubai under an IHOP franchisee later this year.

Leadership

For Sonic President Claudia San Pedro, it’s not just about selling hamburgers

By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 28, 2022

San Pedro took an unusual route to her current role. But the lessons she’s learned along the way have helped the burger chain succeed and earned her a place among nominees for Restaurant Business Restaurant Leader of the Year.

Financing

Checkers and Rally’s turn to unit growth

By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 28, 2022

The drive-thru chains expect to add 60 locations this year after signing deals on both coasts.

Marketing

With clothing line, P.F. Chang’s hopes to become more ubiquitous

By Joe Guszkowski on Jan. 28, 2022

The Asian chain now sells bomber jackets and bucket hats in addition to food, and superfans seem to be eating it up.

Financing

Two of the industry’s Wall Street darlings have taken a beating this year

By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 28, 2022

Chipotle, which once flirted with $2,000 a share, along with Domino’s have lost more than 20% of their value thus far in 2022.

Premium

Financing

McDonald’s ditched its Dollar Menu, and franchisee profit took off

By Jonathan Maze on Jan. 27, 2022

Operator cash flow is up 50% in the past three years after the company shifted away from its value focus. But higher labor and food costs loom.

Premium

Marketing

How much would you pay to skip the waitlist? One chain bet $600

By Joe Guszkowski on Jan. 27, 2022

The annual membership at Rib & Chop House offers priority seating as well as discounts and other perks. It’s been a success so far, said CEO Yaron Goldman.

Financing