Financing

How your restaurant sales and profits compare to competitors' and what you can do to improve financial performance

Financing

After years of declines, McDonald’s plans U.S. unit growth this year

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.

Financing

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

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.

The company said about 1% of its stores have shortened hours, down from 10% earlier. But many dining rooms remain closed.

U.S. same-store sales hit a record in 2021, driven in part by price increases and the company’s promotions, including its new loyalty program.

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.

The Bottom Line: Large full-service concepts gained market share since the start of the pandemic and are set up for a stronger future.

A Deeper Dive: RJ Hottovy, head of analytical research with Placer.ai, joins the podcast to talk about the impact of surges on restaurant sales and traffic.

The Bottom Line: Industry sales were surprisingly strong after a second-half surge. But sales slowed in December after the latest spike in infections.

José Cil, CEO of Burger King owner Restaurant Brands International, said staffing challenges are a long-term problem that requires long-term solutions.

Reality Check: The National Restaurant Association is stepping up its efforts to replenish the Restaurant Revitalization Fund, citing a new opportunity. But it's far from a slam-dunk.

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