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Financing

How Crumbl Cookies became one of the hottest restaurant chains in the country

The franchise brand has come out of nowhere to become one of the nation’s fastest-growing chains. And it has the unit economics to be a long-term success.

Technology

Move over, delivery: Pickup has arrived

Tech Check: Carryout is gaining share as delivery slows down and gets more expensive. That’s good news for restaurants.

The Bottom Line: The interim CEO suggested the company is already talking to candidates and said there is plenty of interest in the job. The position provides an opportunity rare in the restaurant business, but it comes with its own challenges.

The company has a new CEO in Kelli Valade and a new brand in Keke’s that it’s betting will help it accelerate growth for years to come.

The coffee chain believes it has considerable potential selling food in the afternoons. But it is also pushing more espresso and cold beverages and, naturally, drive-thrus.

The Bottom Line: The burger chain says its gap to competitors narrowed last quarter and said digital sales are picking up. But rising costs are still causing financial problems for operators.

The Dirty Soda concept is expanding into Texas and Las Vegas. But it is eyeing franchising and even more growth in the future. “I think Swig should be in every town.”

Greg Willman was the Middle Eastern concept’s first franchisee in March 2020. Now, he’s the chain’s CEO and owner as it works to rebuild.

State of the Plate: Chefs at all levels are adding more crunch to items to give them contrasting textures, using everything from chia seeds to crispy chicken skin.

The Bottom Line: Tucked in the company’s earnings are signs that some consumers are cutting back. The burger giant’s executives believe they need to have some value to keep them coming.

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