McDonald's

A decision last week underscores a change in how the NLRB views a franchisor's accountability for the actions of franchisees.

Woe to the restaurant that won't change with the times. But some recent results of social and business pressures were real head-scratchers, including developments at Sonic and Starbucks.

Four years ago, a Mama Fu’s restaurant in Charlotte, North Carolina, developed a better kids’ menu than the slightly exotic fare the Pan-Asian concept restaurant chain offered at the time. The new Dragon Tails (chicken tenders with macaroni and cheese) and Ninja Noodles (teriyaki chicken with noodles) were a smash hit, and soon became a staple at all 13 Mama Fu’s units. “That was one of the bigger franchisee ideas that helped our brand,” says Randy Murphy, president of Texas-based Mama Fu’s. “It really helped us become more of a family-friendly restaurant.”