Latest news
Dutch Bros continues its strong public-market performance with an 8.3% same-store sales gain in Q2 2026, marking its 13th consecutive quarter of growth. The coffee chain's strategy hinges on a deep pipeline of internal operators, strategic site selection, second-generation conversions, and a robust loyalty-driven digital business. Key figures: 525 operator candidates, 48 new shops in Q2, up to 65 planned acquisitions, and 73% loyalty transaction share.
Wendy's is reviving its chief operations officer position after more than six years, following the departure of U.S. President Pete Suerken on Aug. 31. Suerken will return to Quality Supply Chain Co-op, which he led from 2021 to 2025. The company is evaluating restructuring efforts amid falling same-store sales and pressure from an activist investor.
Panera Bread has introduced MyPanera 2.0, a revamped loyalty program that shifts to a points-based system with three tiers. The change, announced Wednesday, provides members with more control and flexibility in redeeming rewards, and is part of the company's broader RISE turnaround strategy.
Chipotle is expanding its influencer meal strategy to younger audiences by launching a Kid's Meal inspired by Salish Matter, a 16-year-old content creator. The limited-time offer is available via app and website, with a social media contest for fans. This marks the first time Chipotle has used a creator's custom order for its Kid's Meal, aiming to connect with Gen Alpha's growing influence on family dining choices.
As punch cards fade into history, loyalty programs are no longer just about transactions. Experts from Patronix and Tropical Smoothie Cafe discuss how personalization, gamification, and data-driven strategies are reshaping customer retention in the restaurant industry.
Denny's has unveiled a national catering program in collaboration with ezCater, initially available at approximately 400 locations and slated to reach 1,000 restaurants by the end of September. This initiative marks the first major rollout under Project Grand Slam, the company's growth roadmap. The catering menu includes group bundles and individually packaged meals, with orders placed via Dennys.com. The move aims to boost franchisee sales and follows Denny's recent privatization in a $620 million deal.
Whataburger has unveiled a new value menu called 'More for $4', pricing four of its popular items at $4 each. The menu includes Bacon & Cheese Whataburger Jr., Whataburger Patty Melt Jr., Honey BBQ Chicken Strip Sandwich Jr., and Buffalo Ranch Chicken Strip Sandwich Jr., with an option to add small fries and a drink for an additional $3. The move reflects the chain's focus on value-conscious consumers and comes amid heightened competition in the fast-food value segment.
Shell has teamed up with McDonald's for a limited-time promotion that lets MyMcDonald's Rewards members redeem points for fuel discounts at participating Shell stations. The initiative, announced via LinkedIn, targets new Shell Fuel Rewards sign-ups and increased fuel sales, leveraging McDonald's vast loyalty base of nearly 210 million active members.
Pizza Hut Global CEO Aaron Powell announced on LinkedIn on Friday that he will step down after the sale of Pizza Hut to LongRange Capital is completed. He said LongRange had tried to retain him, but he decided to leave at this time. Powell joined Pizza Hut in 2021, having previously worked at Kimberly-Clark, Bain, and Procter & Gamble. He did not disclose his successor or his next plans.
During her tenure, Cracker Barrel's former CEO Julie Masino drove a significant business recovery, but the public backlash over the logo change in August 2025 still dominates public memory. This article analyzes why negative narratives continue to outweigh positive performance and explores how brand leaders should manage such risks.