McDonald’s to refranchise 1,500 restaurants

The Bottom Line: The bankruptcy filing of Sailormen is putting pressure on the fast-food chicken chain while proving that franchisors should pay close heed to their franchisees' finances.

Tech Check: The online ordering company is still focused on digitizing every restaurant transaction. It's also looking to do more M&A under new owner Thoma Bravo.

Projections suggest the restaurant industry can expect a better year, buoyed by easier comparisons and tax law changes. But many other factors could inhibit that growth, and not everybody will benefit.