This week (since Sun 9/20)

McDonald’s: McDonald’s plans to provide ~$8.5BN in total NEXT partnering support through 2036 as part of its new McDonald’s > NEXT strategy, targeting an operating margin in the low-to-mid 50% range and ~250bps of restaurant-level efficiency gains by 2030. (McDonald’s; 23 September 2026)

McDonald’s: McDonald’s named Skye Anderson as US President, noting she was elevated to the role early last month after previously serving as President of McDonald’s West Zone, having spent more than two decades in various roles with the chain. (Restaurant Business; 23 September 2026)

McDonald’s: McDonald’s will roll out ArchIQ, an artificial intelligence platform to power restaurant operations, as part of its Next strategy. (Restaurant Dive; 25 September 2026)

McDonald’s: McDonald’s plans to add tiered rewards, tie-ups with other major brands and increased personalization to its loyalty system, aiming to reactivate 150M infrequent guests. (Restaurant Dive; 25 September 2026)

McDonald’s: McDonald’s is bringing back the MONOPOLY game starting 10/6, allowing players to peel and scan game pieces in the app to win instant-win food, loyalty points or bigger prizes like a $1MM cash prize, a 2027 Jeep Cherokee, or free McDonald’s for a Year (via a $1,040 gift card). Eligible menu items include the Quarter Pounder with Cheese, Egg McMuffin, large fries and large drinks. (McDonald’s; 22 September 2026)

McDonald’s: McDonald’s is offering its SpongeBob x One Piece Happy Meal, featuring 15 collectible toys, in the US through 10/19, with the rollout continuing in Europe and Asia through 2026 across 70 total markets. (QSR Magazine; 23 September 2026)

Starbucks: Starbucks is closing about 250 North America locations this week, or roughly 1% of its 18,000-plus store portfolio, after Chief Operating Officer Mike Grams said the company identified restaurants where it did not see a path to acceptable financial performance. The closures are expected to bring global net store growth for fiscal 2026 to about 1%, with 440 net new stores. (QSR Magazine; 24 September 2026)

Starbucks: Starbucks and 7 Brew have drawn attention for scarcity marketing promotions that sparked chaotic scenes, including 7 Brew’s 7 Brew Doh squishy giveaway on 9/7, which sold out at several shops, and Starbucks’ Bearista Cup and $39.95 Snoopy Cup, the latter prompting a customer to be filmed wrestling an employee over the item. (Restaurant Business; 23 September 2026)

Chipotle: Chipotle is offering a free quesadilla with a digital purchase of $20 or more from 9/24-9/25 using code NQD2026 for National Quesadilla Day. (Chipotle; 21 September 2026)

Taco Bell: Taco Bell launched Diablo Ranch and Creamy Chipotle Crispy Chicken Crunchwrap Sliders at participating locations nationwide for a limited time, featuring all-white-meat chicken, a three-cheese blend and pico de gallo, priced around $2.99 each. (Fast Food Post; 21 September 2026)

Taco Bell: The Taco Bell Foundation awarded a record $32MM in Community Grants to 700 nonprofits nationwide, a 40% increase in nonprofit partners from last year, supporting youth education, career readiness and mentorship programs including Junior Achievement, City Year and College Advising Corps. The grants are largely funded through Taco Bell’s Round Up initiative, through which customers contributed $51MM+ in 2025. (QSR Web; 25 September 2026)

Taco Bell: Taco Bell launched new Crunchwrap variations nationwide, alongside additional menu tests underway in Cleveland, Nashville, Charlotte and Houston. The chain also introduced a Salt & Straw collaboration at its Live Más Café locations. (NRN; 25 September 2026)

Taco Bell: Taco Bell introduced Daredevil Double Dipping Burritos at select test locations in Cleveland, Ohio, featuring grilled steak or slow-roasted chicken, a three-cheese blend and Avocado Ranch sauce, served with a split dipping cup of Ghost Pepper sauce and spicy, cheesy crisps, for around $5.99. (Fast Food Post; 25 September 2026)

KFC: KFC is debuting Open House, a new 3,400-square-foot restaurant concept with seating for 52 guests, opening 9/26 at 8751 El Dorado Parkway in McKinney, TX, featuring an expanded menu with new dayparts including breakfast, elevated beverages, table service, a dedicated pick-up lane and delivery, aimed at identifying ideas that could benefit KFC’s 3,500+ US restaurants. KFC is hosting a free public grand opening celebration on 9/27 from 10AM-2PM CT. (KFC; 24 September 2026)

KFC (Canada): KFC Canada is promoting its new global Kwench beverage menu through the "Kwench Traps" campaign, created by Toronto-based agency Courage, featuring influencers known for attention-grabbing social content and positioning the beverages as accessories and forms of self-expression rather than focusing on traditional marketing messages such as price, flavor or product benefits. The campaign targets Gen Z consumers. (QSR Web; 21 September 2026)

Burger King: Burger King is pumping the brakes on drive-thru AI, planning to make it easier for customers to order from a human employee after finding some guests do not like talking to a robot. The chain is still testing voice AI in ~1,500 locations, noting Technomic data shows only 23% of consumers find ordering from an AI drive-thru bot appealing, versus 46% for ordering in-restaurant with an employee. (NRN; 24 September 2026)

Tim Hortons: Tim Hortons is partnering with adidas on a new Tims Run Club footwear and apparel collection, offering Tims Rewards members exclusive early access on TimShop.ca starting 9/24 ahead of the public launch on 9/26 on TimShop.ca and adidas.ca, with the collection also reaching select adidas stores and wholesale partners on 9/29 for National Coffee Day. (Tim Hortons; 21 September 2026)

Tim Hortons: Tim Hortons launched a new Strawberry Iced Matcha Latte and hot Strawberry Matcha Latte, extending the matcha lineup it introduced in July, with the iced version featuring a layer of pink strawberry-flavoured cold foam. Participating Tims restaurants are also now serving Strawberry Soda Swirls, a blend of Coca-Cola with strawberry syrup and cream, topped with pink strawberry-flavoured cold foam. (Tim Hortons; 23 September 2026)

Darden: Chuy’s will offer dine-in food and drink specials at its restaurants nationwide on 10/6 for National Taco Day, including a $1 crispy or soft ground beef taco add-on with an entrée purchase and a $1 tequila or rum "Floater" added to any margarita. Guests who dress in a taco-inspired costume and post on social media using #ChuysTacoDay can receive a free entrée during the same visit. (FSR Magazine; 24 September 2026)

Olive Garden: Olive Garden’s same-store sales rose 1% in the quarter ended 8/30, its lowest result since late 2024, as consumer concerns over a cyclospora outbreak linked to contaminated lettuce and the World Cup weighed on sales by 150-200bps, per Darden CFO Raj Vennam, while lighter portion mix hurt sales by another 50bps. The chain launched its Never-Ending Pasta Bowl promotion in late August and saw a positive response, and plans to revive its unlimited soup, salad and breadsticks campaign later in the quarter to help drive weekday lunch traffic. (NRN; 24 September 2026)

Yard House: Yard House became Darden’s third billion-dollar brand, reporting SSS +10% in F1Q27. The chain plans to open 13 new stores during the current fiscal year. (Restaurant Dive; 25 September 2026)

CAVA: CAVA opened its 500th restaurant in Minneapolis, marking its entrance into Minnesota and bringing its footprint to 30 states and the District of Columbia. CAVA is ahead of schedule on its goal of 1,000 restaurants by 2032, noting new restaurants are generating more than $3MM in average annualized sales. (QSR Magazine; 23 September 2026)

Luckin Coffee: Luckin Coffee is offering a referral promotion from 9/28-9/30 for National Coffee Day on 9/29, where customers who refer a friend receive a free drink coupon, valid for seven days, after the friend buys their first drink for $1.99. (QSR Magazine; 24 September 2026)

Wingstop: Wingstop launched its Game Day Punch Card, available 9/21-10/21 through the Club Wingstop app, letting members who purchase three Watch Party Bundle meal packages get a fourth free, plus a $50 Ticketmaster Ticket Cash code, while supplies last. It marks the chain’s second football-season loyalty promotion, following the limited Wing Pass offer. (NRN; 22 September 2026)

Chili’s: Chili’s plans to reach 2-3% annual unit growth and open as many as 30 restaurants per year by fiscal 2029, having identified 300+ trade areas for new locations. The chain has already approved 15 restaurants for fiscal 2028 and 15 for fiscal 2029, with 46 additional deals in progress, and expects new restaurants to cost $5MM-$6MM. (FSR Magazine; 21 September 2026)

Chili’s: Chili’s CMO George Felix discussed the brand’s marketing strategy and future growth plans, including targeting Mexican QSR competitors, at Brinker International’s recent investor day. (Restaurant Dive; 25 September 2026)

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf: The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf opened a new café at Camarillo Premium Outlets on 9/12, owned and operated by multi-unit franchisee Tae H. Kim, growing the brand to more than 1,100 locations globally, including 180 in the US. The brand is also targeting development in California, Dallas-Fort Worth, Salt Lake City and Cincinnati. (The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf; 24 September 2026)

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf (Kuwait): The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf and franchise partner Al-Ghunaim Trading Co. celebrated the opening of its 130th café in Kuwait, marking more than 20 years of partnership since the first café opened in Salmiya on 16 December 2004. The Kuwait business is now supported by more than 1,135 employees. (The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf; 24 September 2026)

Flower Child: Flower Child delivered SSS +13% last quarter (17% on a 2-yr stack), driving AUVs to $5.4MM and adjusted mature store-level margins of 20.1%, according to CFO Matthew Clark. The company aims to grow Flower Child in a 20-25% unit growth range, with seven Flower Child openings planned for the fiscal year alongside five to six Cheesecake Factory boxes and six to seven North Italias. (FSR Magazine; 21 September 2026)

Wendy’s: Meritage Hospitality Group, which operates 314 Wendy’s locations, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, citing a steep decline in restaurant-level profits. The filing follows a difficult stretch for Wendy’s, with SSS falling for six straight quarters and down more than 10% on a two-year basis so far in 2026, while Meritage closed 60 restaurants earlier this year and stopped serving breakfast at some locations. (NRN; 21 September 2026)

Wendy’s: Meritage Hospitality Group, which filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy last week, disclosed revenue fell 7.6% to $618MM in 2025 and 14% to $274MM in 1H26, with a $32MM net loss in 2025 following an $8MM profit in 2024. Wendy’s franchisor organization notified Meritage it owes over $27MM in past due royalties and more than $119MM in continuous operations fees, a claim Meritage is disputing, while Wendy’s develops a turnaround strategy under new CEO Robert Wright that could support Meritage’s restructuring across its 15-state footprint. (Restaurant Dive; 22 September 2026)

Wendy’s: Wendy’s subsidiary Quality Is Our Recipe filed an objection to Meritage Hospitality Group’s first-day motions in its Chapter 11 case, claiming Meritage lacks the right to keep operating its 314 remaining restaurants after QIOR terminated its franchise agreement on 9/16 over more than $27MM in past-due royalty, advertising and other fees. QIOR said it would consider a short-term post-petition license to allow the restaurants to transition to Wendy’s or other franchisees if the court denies Meritage’s motions. (Restaurant Dive; 22 September 2026)

Wendy’s: Wendy’s released a six-track emo album, Songs to Listen to in a Wendy’s Parking Lot, on 9/23 on Spotify and other major streaming platforms, produced by Matt Squire and featuring artists including Matty Mullins, Chloe Kinnon, Shane Told, Beau Bokan, Derek DiScanio and Kat Leon. (Wendy’s; 23 September 2026)

Wendy’s (Canada): Wendy’s Canada launched the OREO Brownie Frosty, available nationwide with a Chocolate or Vanilla base through 10/25, alongside a national survey on whether Canadians prefer to dip or dunk fries in a Frosty. (Wendy’s; 25 September 2026)

Papa Johns: Papa Johns is facing a proposed securities fraud class action lawsuit, per a press release from The Rosen Law Firm, alleging the company misled investors about its turnaround strategy between 8/7/25 and 8/5/26. The suit follows Papa Johns’ 2Q report, which showed North American SSS -8.3%, a reduced 2026 outlook, suspension of its quarterly dividend and a ~17% stock decline. (Pizza Marketplace; 21 September 2026)

Papa Johns: Papa Johns is highlighting The Works, a Handcrafted Specialty Pizza loaded with seven premium toppings including pepperoni, Canadian bacon, spicy Italian sausage, onions, green peppers, mushrooms and black olives, available for a limited time starting at $10.99 for a medium and $13.99 for a large. (Papa Johns; 23 September 2026)

Black Rock Coffee Bar: Black Rock Coffee Bar, now a 200-unit chain, plans to grow to 1,000 shops by 2035, CEO Mark Davis said, noting the brand will need to navigate intense competition in the beverage market and real estate issues to get there. (Restaurant Business; 23 September 2026)

Cracker Barrel: CBRL reported F4Q comparable store restaurant sales -2.1% and comparable store retail sales +0.7%, with adjusted EBITDA of $62.1MM, up from $55.7MM in the prior year quarter. CBRL’s FY27 outlook includes comparable store restaurant sales growth of 3% to 5% and adjusted EBITDA of $180MM to $200MM. (Cracker Barrel Old Country Store; 23 September 2026)

Cracker Barrel: Cracker Barrel named former NFL player Taylor Lewan as its first “Chief Pancake Officer” for its “Make Pancake Blocks Official” campaign, launched 9/21 to push for pancake blocks to become an official football statistic. Cracker Barrel is also offering $5 all-you-can-eat pancakes on 9/26 for National Pancake Day. (FSR Magazine; 23 September 2026)

BJ’s Restaurants: BJ’s Restaurants posted Q2 SSS +6.5% with traffic +8.3%, its eighth consecutive quarter of comps and traffic growth, with more than 80 stores breaking daily or weekly sales records. Over the past two years, the brand has added $500K in AUV, ~$220K in restaurant-level cash flow, and expanded margins 240bps. (FSR Magazine; 24 September 2026)

Dave & Buster’s: Dave & Buster’s named GUT as its new creative agency of record, overseeing brand strategy, creative, social and influencer, and Mediaplus as its new media agency of record, with both agencies to assume their responsibilities beginning 10/1. (Dave & Buster’s; 24 September 2026)

Krispy Kreme: Krispy Kreme launched Churro Doughnut Dots for the first day of fall, featuring poppable cinnamon sugar-coated doughnut dots served with dulce de leche dipping sauce, available for a limited time. (Krispy Kreme; 21 September 2026)

Krispy Kreme: Krispy Kreme is launching the new Original Glazed Coffee Flavored Doughnut, available for four days only, and is offering a dozen for $5 with the purchase of any dozen at regular price from 9/26-9/29. Krispy Kreme is also offering a free small or medium hot or iced coffee with any purchase on 9/29 for National Coffee Day. (Krispy Kreme; 23 September 2026)

Jack in the Box: Jack in the Box named former Starbucks CFO Rachel Ruggeri to its Board, noting she has 30+ years of finance experience. Michael Murphy, a board member since 2002, is retiring and will not stand for reelection, and Jack in the Box extended a cooperation agreement with activist fund Greenwood Investors. (NRN; 21 September 2026)

Noodles & Company: Noodles & Company opened its first New Mexico restaurant on 9/23 in Las Cruces, operated by local franchise partner Tsunami Enterprises under a multi-unit franchise and area development agreement, with plans to expand further across the region. (Noodles & Company; 23 September 2026)

7-Eleven: 7-Eleven introduced a new pizza crust with customizable sauces, garnishes and toppings, and is offering limited-time deals across participating 7-Eleven, Speedway and Stripes stores, including two slices for $5, a whole large pizza for $6.99 via 7NOW Delivery, and for loyalty members, a slice with a 20-ounce soft drink for $4 or eight boneless wings for $3 with any whole pizza. (Pizza Marketplace; 22 September 2026)

7-Eleven: 7-Eleven is offering new value menus at its restaurant brands, including the Más Value Menu at Laredo Taco Company with a $5 breakfast meal and $7 lunch meal, the Raise Your Cravings Menu at Raise the Roost with items $4 and under, and the Speedy Deals Menu at Speedy Cafe with items under $3-$4, all valid 8/26-10/27. (7-Eleven; 24 September 2026)

Sysco: 84 Sysco drivers in Baraboo, Wisconsin voted to join Teamsters Local 120, joining the 13,000+ Sysco workers nationwide represented by the Teamsters, and are preparing to bargain their first union contract. The drivers deliver food and supplies to restaurants, hospitals and universities throughout Wisconsin, including the University of Wisconsin-Madison. (International Brotherhood of Teamsters; 22 September 2026)

Sysco: Sysco closed a C$1.5BN senior notes offering, consisting of C$750MM of 4.250% notes due 2030 and C$750MM of 4.800% notes due 2034. The company estimates net proceeds of ~C$1.49BN, which it intends to use to fund a portion of the cash consideration for its pending acquisition of Jetro Restaurant Depot. (Sysco; 25 September 2026)

US Foods: US Foods launched Fall 2026 Scoop, a collection of 14 US Foods Exclusive Brands products inspired by Italian cooking, including risotto, burrata ravioli, sourdough focaccia, chicken cutlets, pizza dough and tiramisu, designed to reduce labor and prep time. US Foods noted 55% of consumers often choose global flavors when dining out. (FSR Magazine; 21 September 2026)

Menufy: Based on data from Menufy, a survey of 1,000 US adults found that 80% would try an independent restaurant they had never heard of if recommended by AI, while 78% said AI makes locally owned restaurants easier to discover than national chains. 60% of consumers use AI tools such as ChatGPT, Gemini, Google AI Mode or Perplexity to help decide where to eat, and 35% said an AI recommendation had introduced them to a restaurant they subsequently visited or ordered from, though only 2% would order without checking another source first. (QSR Web; 24 September 2026)

Beef Industry: Meritage Hospitality Group, Wendy’s largest franchisee, cited rising beef costs (up 18.9%) among the factors behind its bankruptcy filing, noting 80% of Wendy’s protein sales involve beef, compared to 50% at McDonald’s. Beef costs also soared 20% at Burger King last year, halting progress the brand made on franchisee finances. (Restaurant Business; 22 September 2026)

Coffee Industry: Based on data from Placer.ai, visits to 7 Brew grew 41.6% YOY from January-August 2026, with visits per location +1.7%, while visits to Scooter’s Coffee grew 6.1% YOY, with visits per location +3.7%. 7 Brew now operates 800+ stands across 38 states, while Scooter’s operates 920+ locations across 32 states, with Scooter’s skewing more toward morning visits and 7 Brew drawing more afternoon and evening traffic. (Placer.ai; 22 September 2026)

Coffee Industry: Based on data from Placer.ai, coffee shop visits were +4.1% YOY in H1 2026, even as overall dining traffic fell 0.4%. The top five coffee metros by YOY visit growth included Riverside and Bakersfield, driven by Starbucks and Dutch Bros, Indianapolis and Kansas City, driven by drive-thru growth from Dutch Bros and 7 Brew, and Orlando, driven by population and tourism growth. (Placer.ai; 22 September 2026)

Restaurant Industry: Based on data from Placer.ai, ice cream parlors and frozen yogurt shops accounted for 2.1% of all dining visits nationwide in June and July, with the highest share concentrated in beach destinations Portland, ME, Atlantic City, NJ, Wilmington, NC and Myrtle Beach, SC. Youngstown, OH also ranked among the top five metros, driven by local loyalty to hometown chain Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream, which has grown to 175+ locations nationally. (Placer.ai; 22 September 2026)

Restaurant Industry: Based on data from Technomic, 95% of C-store operators say foodservice is a strategic priority and 68% of consumers believe C-stores are just as capable as restaurants of offering fresh, quality food, as chains including QuickChek, Dash In and Sheetz now mimic traditional QSRs with sleek interiors, kiosks and self-checkouts. Technomic noted 60% of consumers still prefer ordering with staff over kiosks at limited-service restaurants, and restaurants scoring above average on brand identity and innovation grew 8.2% in 2025 versus -3.4% for below-average performers; Technomic projects real industry growth of 0.7% in 2026 and 1.3% in 2027. (NRN; 24 September 2026)

Restaurant Industry: Based on data from the National Restaurant Association, a third of restaurants said they were not profitable in the first half of the year, as weak traffic among low-income consumers kept a lid on sales. In a separate survey, ~40% of operators said new technology has not cut costs, with 28.3% saying it had no significant impact on operating costs and 12% saying it increased costs, while 28.8% said it reduced corporate overhead, 27% said it reduced labor costs and 20.4% said it reduced upfront costs. The association expects sales to grow 4.3% this year, or 0.8% after accounting for menu price inflation. (Restaurant Business; 24 September 2026)

Restaurant Industry: Based on data from the National Restaurant Association’s Made in Restaurants report, 86% of current restaurant employees say they are likely to continue working in the industry until retirement, and 91% would recommend a restaurant job to a friend or family member. The report identifies a perception gap, with 86% of current employees saying the industry offers good long-term career opportunities versus 54% of adults without restaurant experience, and 90% versus 65% saying restaurant work is a good job. Adults without restaurant experience were more likely to cite schedules (53% vs. 29%) and compensation (50% vs. 28%) as challenges. Additionally, 89% of current employees feel they have opportunity for career advancement, and 42% say they would like to own or operate a restaurant someday. (National Restaurant Association; 25 September 2026)

Restaurant Industry: California’s Allergen Disclosure for Dining Experiences Act has been in effect since 7/1 for chains with 20+ locations, requiring the nine major allergens to be disclosed on printed menus, kiosks and apps. New York’s allergen notice rule takes effect 11/12, requiring written allergen notices on food prepared and packaged on-site, applying to all operators regardless of size. California also standardized date labeling, requiring “use by” for safety and “best if used by” for quality, and dropping “sell by” dates. More than 33MM people in the US live with a food allergy. (QSR Magazine; 25 September 2026)

DoorDash: DoorDash agreed to pay $131.5MM to settle allegations that it underpaid or delayed payments to hundreds of thousands of delivery workers in New York City, with more than $115MM going to workers and $16.7MM in civil penalties and costs. Approximately 264,000 Dashers will receive a payment, and the agreement also establishes a three-year monitoring program. (QSR Magazine; 24 September 2026)

Wonder: Wonder received a $125MM investment from DoorDash and introduced its Infinite Makeline kitchen, an automated food prep system acquired from Sweetgreen. Wonder also announced a round of layoffs following the closure of two production facilities. (NRN; 21 September 2026)

Subway: Subway launched a new brand platform, Feed Your SUBconscious, starring Will Arnett, who plays five distinct characters representing the inner voice guiding food decisions. The campaign will appear across broadcast and streaming television, streaming audio, digital, social media and in-restaurant channels. (Subway; 21 September 2026)

Dunkin': Dunkin' is partnering with L.L.Bean on their first-ever collaboration, launching a Birdseye Sweater ($79.95) and Boat and Tote ($59.95) nationally on 9/29 for National Coffee Day. Dunkin' Rewards members can also get a free medium hot or iced coffee with any app purchase that day. (Inspire Brands; 21 September 2026)

Arby’s: Arby’s launched Loaded Rewards, a new loyalty program offering 10 points per $1 spent, 2x points on Double Roast Beef or Double Beef 'n Cheddar sandwiches, and a free sandwich with a $5 spend on a first order for new members, with rewards starting at 300 points for items like a Large Fry. Arby’s is also promoting the program with a new campaign featuring reality TV star Angie Katsanevas. (Inspire Brands; 23 September 2026)

Carl’s Jr.: Carl’s Jr. is launching its "Steal the Crown" diss marketing campaign against Burger King, inviting customers to upload an image of a Burger King receipt or paper crown for a free Angus Maximus burger, available for a limited time to My Rewards loyalty members via the app or by DM on Instagram. (NRN; 21 September 2026)

Jamba: Jamba is bringing back its Pumpkin Smash smoothie and introducing the new Pumpkin Moo’d, combining Moo’d Powder with pumpkin flavor, at participating locations nationwide beginning 10/1 through October while supplies last, with both pairable with warm food items including its Belgian Waffle and Mozz Bites. (QSR Magazine; 24 September 2026)

McAlister’s Deli: McAlister’s Deli is adding three Halloween-themed drinks and two desserts to its menu, available nationwide from 10/1-10/31, including Witch’s Brew, Twisted Witch’s Brew and Franken-Tea, alongside a new Peanut Butter Pie made with Reese’s and returning Pumpkin Pecan Cookie with White Chocolate Chips. Through 10/14, rewards members can receive a free dessert with an entrée purchase for National Dessert Day. (QSR Magazine; 24 September 2026)

Dave’s Hot Chicken: Dave’s Hot Chicken franchisee Rackson Restaurants opened its 13th Dave’s Hot Chicken restaurant in Mohegan Lake, New York, expanding Rackson’s multi-brand portfolio to 100+ quick-service restaurants across the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic and Ohio. (QSR Magazine; 23 September 2026)

Dave’s Hot Chicken: Dave’s Hot Chicken franchisee TIG Reaper, which operates seven restaurants across Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, disputing $8.8MM in Bank Midwest debt and alleging lender interference derailed a $30MM sale opportunity. TIG Reaper countersued Bank Midwest, seeking at least $14MM in damages. (NRN; 25 September 2026)

Five Guys: Five Guys reached 2,000 stores worldwide with the opening of a location at Universal CityWalk at Universal Orlando Resort, marking 40 years since the brand’s founding, as it now operates restaurants in 30 countries. (QSR Magazine; 25 September 2026)

Denny’s: Denny’s is targeting a $2.5MM AUV over the next couple of years under its Project Grand Slam turnaround, up from $2MM currently, led by CEO Christopher Bode. Denny’s expects its relaunched catering program, now trained across 400 stores, to add $50K in sales per restaurant in year one, rising to $100K by year two. (Restaurant Dive; 23 September 2026)

Denny’s: Denny’s opened nominations for Denny’s Heroes: A Grand Slam Thank You, a nationwide search for stories of generosity, resilience, leadership and service, with nominations open through 10/30. From the submissions, Denny’s will choose 30 heroes to each receive a Denny’s-catered hometown celebration for up to 50 guests hosted by a local franchise owner. (FSR Magazine; 25 September 2026)

Marco’s Pizza: Marco’s Pizza partnered with American Public University to offer franchisees, their employees, eligible family members and corporate support center employees a 15% tuition grant toward 200+ online degree and certificate programs. The initiative could benefit 18,000+ people across Marco’s 1,200+ locations in 35 states. (Pizza Marketplace; 22 September 2026)

Smoothie King: Smoothie King is offering Healthy Rewards members a free 12oz Coffee High Protein Almond Mocha Smoothie on 9/28-9/29, ahead of National Coffee Day (14g protein, 3g fiber, 0g added sugar). (Smoothie King; 25 September 2026)

Church’s Texas Chicken: Church’s Texas Chicken is offering its Big Deal Boxes, starting at $5 and ranging up to $8 depending on location, through 9/27, with the option to add a regular-size drink for $2 more as a Real Big Deal Combo. Church’s Texas Chicken is also offering a Pineapple Fried Pie for $1.99. (Fast Food Post; 23 September 2026)

Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard: Rita’s is opening a new location in Mentor, Ohio, marking franchisee Jim Myers’ sixth Rita’s shop, with a grand opening event on 9/26 offering the first 50 guests in line free Italian ice for a year. (QSR Magazine; 23 September 2026)

Del Taco: Del Taco opened a new restaurant in Turlock, California, expanding its presence across the Central Valley. The location is owned and operated by franchise partners the Sagars, marking their 17th Del Taco location in the region. (QSR Magazine; 25 September 2026)

Hungry Howie’s: Hungry Howie’s is leveraging delivery management platform Cartwheel, which is deployed across 350+ restaurant brands, to combine its own delivery drivers with third-party fleets rather than relying on just one option. (Pizza Marketplace; 23 September 2026)

Long John Silver’s: Long John Silver’s introduced new Crispy Battered Wings for Game Day, available à la carte for a suggested $1.99, alongside a new Game Day Platter with six wings, six fried shrimp and Fried Pickles for $13.69, available for a limited time at participating locations nationwide. (Fast Food Post; 22 September 2026)

MOD Pizza: MOD Pizza introduced its "MODern Beginnings" menu evolution, featuring standardized small and regular pizza and salad sizes, an expanded lineup of eight signature recipes including Carnivore, Veg Out, MODgherita, Firebird and Smoke Show, and a new Mediterranean salad. The chain also introduced the Spicy Thai Pizza, its first limited-time offering in three years to feature a new ingredient, alongside new desserts CinnaMOD, No Name Cakes and Cake Pops. (Pizza Marketplace; 21 September 2026)

Potbelly: Potbelly franchisee Jignesh Patel was named a 2026 IFA Franchisee of the Year, recognized for growing an original six-shop development commitment with fellow franchisee Nitin Patel to 15 locations across the Austin, Texas market. The pair currently operates three Austin-area shops, with a fourth opening soon. (QSR Magazine; 24 September 2026)

Round Table Pizza: Round Table Pizza partnered with Dr Pepper and The Dairy Alliance to introduce a limited-time menu available through 1/3, featuring the Dr Pepper BBQ Pizza topped with bacon, mini pepperoni, a three-cheese blend and Dr Pepper BBQ sauce, alongside Dr Pepper BBQ wings, bacon and cheese tots with Dr Pepper BBQ dipping sauce, and a Margherita Pizza. (Pizza Marketplace; 21 September 2026)

Golden Corral: Golden Corral added All-You-Can-Eat Wings to the buffet at all locations starting 9/14, featuring returning Bone-In Buffalo Wings alongside new Boneless Buffalo Bites. The chain is also offering two $25 Wing To Go options, 25 Bone-In Buffalo Wings or 50 Boneless Buffalo Bites, through 10/18 via GoldenCorral.com or the Golden Corral App. (FSR Magazine; 21 September 2026)

Shipley Donuts: Shipley Donuts is running its Shipley Hoco Contest from 9/22-9/30, inviting students to share homecoming stories for a chance to win a homecoming night with VIP transportation and Shipley treats. On 10/5, Shipley is offering a free classic glazed donut, no purchase necessary, to students wearing homecoming-themed gear at participating locations. (Shipley Do-Nuts; 22 September 2026)

Paris Baguette: Paris Baguette opened a new café in Clovis, California on 9/24 with franchisees Anvar and Nikki Tulyag, marking the brand’s 82nd California location and now 300+ bakery cafés across North America. The chain plans to reach 1,000 locations across the U.S. and Canada by 2030. (Paris Baguette; 24 September 2026)

Paris Baguette: Paris Baguette is launching a Halloween lineup from 10/1-11/1, featuring new Ghost Pepper Chocolate Marble Mochi Donut and Ghost Pepper Iced Hot Chocolate items alongside returning cookies & cream-inspired ghost and spider donuts and dirt-and-worms cakes. The chain is also offering PB Rewards members a free medium coffee with any purchase on 9/29 for National Coffee Day. (Paris Baguette; 24 September 2026)

Wienerschnitzel: Wienerschnitzel signed franchise agreements with GoMart, a travel plaza and convenience store operator with 123 locations across West Virginia, Ohio and Virginia, with plans to develop two co-branded Wienerschnitzel/Tastee Freez restaurants in Kanawha City and Ghent, West Virginia, as well as additional locations over the next five years. (Restaurant Dive; 23 September 2026)

Playa Bowls: Playa Bowls franchisee Amy Lupo, the brand’s first franchise owner in Tennessee who has grown to four shops across the Memphis area, was named a 2026 Franchisee of the Year by the International Franchise Association. (QSR Magazine; 25 September 2026)

Chicken Salad Chick: Chicken Salad Chick is opening a new restaurant in Sarasota, Florida, at 6650 Fruitville Road, with a grand opening on 9/29 where the first 100 guests in line will win free chicken salad for a year. The location is the third for franchise owner Karen Jordan, who also operates restaurants in Bradenton and Parrish. (QSR Magazine; 24 September 2026)

Perkins: Perkins is offering The Great American Pancake Trio for $4.99 from 9/25-9/27 for National Pancake Day, letting guests choose a stack of three pancakes in Buttermilk, Chocolate Chip, Blueberry or Strawberry, available for dine-in and in-restaurant purchases. (FSR Magazine; 22 September 2026)

Huddle House: Huddle House is offering a BOGO deal on its Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Pancake entrée for dine-in guests on 9/26 for National Pancake Day. (FSR Magazine; 21 September 2026)

PJ’s Coffee (~180 units): PJ’s Coffee is opening a new location at 7700 Maple St. in New Orleans, just blocks from where founder Phyllis Jordan opened the brand’s original 1978 location, featuring a refreshed PJ’s Coffee design, indoor seating and an outdoor patio. (QSR Magazine; 24 September 2026)

KPOT Korean BBQ & Hot Pot (140+ units): KPOT Korean BBQ & Hot Pot is partnering with Deliverect to deploy its third-party order aggregation and menu management platform across its national restaurant network, giving KPOT centralized menu control and a single digital layer connecting third-party delivery orders to each restaurant’s point-of-sale. (Deliverect; 22 September 2026)

California Pizza Kitchen (135 units): California Pizza Kitchen, which debuted in Beverly Hills in 1985, peaked around 2015 with 209 US locations and $708.9MM in sales, according to Technomic Ignite data. The chain, which filed for bankruptcy in 2020 amid the Covid-19 pandemic, closed 2025 with $350.2MM in sales at 121 US locations. (NRN; 23 September 2026)

Just Salad (125 units): Just Salad launched its first CTV ad campaign featuring Knicks MVP Jalen Brunson, who invested in the chain earlier this year, alongside billboards across New York City using the tagline “Real New Yorkers Know,” with New Jersey and Connecticut creative reading “We Always Knew.” (NRN; 21 September 2026)

Ziggi’s Coffee (~125 units): Ziggi’s Coffee is offering rewards members a free small Daily Brew, Iced Coffee or Cold Brew with any $2.50+ purchase from 9/29-10/5, extending its National Coffee Day deal to a full week. (QSR Magazine; 24 September 2026)

Mendocino Farms (102 units): Mendocino Farms opened its third Austin restaurant on South Lamar Boulevard on 9/22, marking its 102nd location nationwide and bringing its Texas footprint to 14 restaurants statewide. (Mendocino Farms; 22 September 2026)

Local Favorite Restaurants (~100 units): Local Favorite Restaurants has grown its portfolio to 10 concepts, following its acquisition of Cotton Patch Café in June, which added 46 locations to the platform. Every one of its brands experienced year-over-year sales growth last year, with momentum continuing so far in 2026. (NRN; 23 September 2026)

Pizza Guys (100+ units): Pizza Guys signed a lease for its second Texas restaurant in Fort Worth, expected to open in early 2027 and owned and operated by Kapil Pantha and Tara Rai, following its Texas debut in Plano in 2025. (Pizza Marketplace; 23 September 2026)

Robeks (100+ units): Robeks brought back its Perfectly Pumpkin smoothie nationwide, made with 100% pure pumpkin puree, banana, almond butter and non-fat frozen yogurt, blended with unsweetened vanilla almond milk and a touch of agave, available for a limited time this fall. (QSR Magazine; 23 September 2026)

Ninety Nine Restaurants (96 units): Ninety Nine Restaurants is reportedly exploring a sale, according to the Boston Globe, as parent Cannae Holdings undergoes a strategic review to narrow its focus to sports and entertainment. Cannae CEO Ryan Caswell reportedly hinted to investors that he already has a buyer lined up, though Ninety Nine declined to confirm or deny the rumors. (NRN; 22 September 2026)

Melting Pot (92 units): Melting Pot launched the limited-time Fondue Into Fall menu, featuring Cranberry Pecan Cheese Fondue, Apple Almond Salad and Pumpkin Spice White Chocolate Fondue, with an option to upgrade to a four-course experience with an entrée. The chain is also running The Ultimate Fonduegiving Feast Giveaway from 9/22-10/11, offering four grand prize winners a VIP dinner for six. (Melting Pot; 22 September 2026)

Pretzelmaker (~86 units): Pretzelmaker opened a new location at the Poughkeepsie Galleria in Poughkeepsie, NY, marking another step in the brand’s continued expansion throughout the East Coast. (QSR Magazine; 23 September 2026)

Corner Bakery (85+ units): Corner Bakery Cafe is offering a Choose 2 deal, letting guests pick two half-size or cafe-size items from soups, salads, sandwiches, hot sandwiches, paninis and cafe pastas plus a side, for $8.99 at participating corporate locations and $9.99 at participating corporate California locations through 12/31. (Corner Bakery Cafe; 23 September 2026)

la Madeleine (85+ units): la Madeleine is debuting a new specialty coffee program nationwide, featuring three Signature Lattes—French Madeleine, Brown Butter Toffee and Pistachio—starting at $5.29. Bonjour Rewards members who purchase two qualifying coffees from 9/16-9/30 earn a free coffee reward, redeemable by 10/7, and the first 50 guests at each café who buy a coffee on National Coffee Day (9/29) get a free keychain. (QSR Magazine; 23 September 2026)

Hawaiian Bros Island Grill (80+ units): Hawaiian Bros Island Grill is opening its newest Indiana restaurant in Noblesville on 9/28, marking its second location in the greater Indianapolis area. The brand has grown to 80+ restaurants across 14 states since launching in 2018, with nearly 300 additional restaurants under development agreements spanning 18 states and over 60 markets. (QSR Magazine; 24 September 2026)

TGI Fridays (~71 units): TGI Fridays signed a development agreement with Meerab Hospitality to expand into Pakistan, with plans to scale to 15 restaurants. The first flagship location is targeted to open within the next 12 months at the Hyatt Regency Hotel complex in Lahore. (TGI Fridays; 23 September 2026)

TGI Fridays (~71 units): TGI Fridays is partnering with Family Feud for its 50th Anniversary, letting guests at participating locations play the official Family Feud 50th Anniversary game via board game or mobile QR code experience through 11/9. Guests can pair the game with new fall menu additions including Mike’s Hot Honey Chicken Sliders, Shrimp Scampi Pasta and Tostado Nachos. (FSR Magazine; 23 September 2026)

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill (68 units): Firebirds Wood Fired Grill has surpassed $5MM raised for Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation since 2012, noting the 14-year partnership spans 23 states and includes donating $1.25 from every Firebirds Lemonade sold, plus its annual Lemonade Days event each June. (FSR Magazine; 22 September 2026)

Toastique (65+ units): Toastique is launching the Kit’s Picks menu nationwide from 9/25-11/30, a collaboration with creator Kit Keenan featuring the Raspberry Crumble Smoothie and Cannoli Cloud Coffee. (QSR Magazine; 24 September 2026)

O’Charley’s (~50 units, though now closed): O’Charley’s abruptly shuttered all corporate locations earlier this month, with a few franchised restaurants lingering on, as parent Cannae Holdings undergoes a strategic review of its holdings. O’Charley’s had operated nearly 250 restaurants at its peak in the 2000s but was down to just 47 locations by July. Sister brand Ninety Nine Restaurants, also owned by Cannae, could reportedly be headed toward a sale. (NRN; 21 September 2026)

Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii (48+ units): Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii elevated COO Tom Wylie to President, noting he is a co-owner of AWA Investments, the largest investor in parent Royal Aloha Coffee Company, and brings 20+ years of franchise operations experience, including leadership roles at Papa John’s and Burn Boot Camp. (Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii; 22 September 2026)

The Flying Biscuit Café (41 units): The Flying Biscuit Café signed a franchise agreement with David Mumby and Jimmy Mumby to open a café in Huntersville, N.C., with site selection underway. The franchisees hope to own and operate three to five cafés in and around Charlotte within five years. (FSR Magazine; 22 September 2026)

Roy Rogers (37 units): Roy Rogers launched Kickin’ Chicken with Hot Honey for a limited time, featuring hand-breaded chicken with hot honey in the Kickin’ Chicken Sandwich and Kickin’ Chicken Biscuit. The brand also added Hot Honey to its sauce lineup as a new dipping sauce option. (QSR Magazine; 25 September 2026)

Shula’s Restaurant Group (30 units): Shula’s Restaurant Group named Dave Shula as President, returning him to the role after previously serving as president for nearly 20 years, as the company enters its next phase of growth across its six-concept portfolio. (Shula’s Restaurant Group; 23 September 2026)

SusieCakes (30+ units): SusieCakes launched a fall menu featuring the Pumpkin Cinnamon Loaf, Banana Chocolate Chip Cake and Snickerdoodle Cupcake, available through 11/1, alongside the German Chocolate Cake, available through 12/31, and Apple Crumble Pie (also offered as a Take & Bake version), available through 12/24. (QSR Magazine; 25 September 2026)

Chronic Tacos (29 units): Chronic Tacos is offering Loyalty Members a new daily deal from 10/5-10/9 for National Taco Week, including BOGO Tacos on 10/5, a free taco on 10/6, Buy 2 Tacos Get 2 Free on 10/7, $2 off a taco plate on 10/8, and BOGO Tacos again on 10/9. (QSR Magazine; 25 September 2026)

Voodoo Doughnut (26 units): Voodoo Doughnut is offering a free cup of Brewed Magic Roast Coffee with any purchase from open to 12PM, and BOGO free Pumpkin Spice Latte Doughnuts, in-store on 9/29 for National Coffee Day. (QSR Magazine; 25 September 2026)

Cohn Restaurant Group (24 units): Cohn Restaurant Group, founded in 1982 by David and Lesley Cohn, has grown to 24 restaurants across varied concepts, mostly in San Diego with one location each in Long Beach, California and Lahaina, Hawaii. The company, led by CEO Mike Feinman, now employs some 2,000 people, and Cohn said the group is not actively pursuing further expansion, instead focusing on its existing restaurants. (NRN; 23 September 2026)

Prince St. Pizza (~20 units): Prince St. Pizza is partnering with Megadeth to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the band’s album Peace Sells…But Who’s Buying?, offering a limited-edition Vic’s Pepperoni pizza at its Los Angeles locations from 9/23-9/27. Rewards members who order the pizza will be entered to win one of five pairs of tickets to the band’s 9/24 performance at the Grammy Museum. (Pizza Marketplace; 23 September 2026)

Starbird (20 units): Starbird signed a 15-unit franchise agreement with Mehta Investment Group to expand into Washington state, which follows its 36-unit development deal with Mac Haik Restaurant Group to expand in Texas. (NRN; 23 September 2026)

Goop Kitchen (18 units): Goop Kitchen has grown to 18 pickup/delivery-only outlets in California and New York, and opened its first dine-in restaurant in San Diego last month. Co-CEO Donald Moore said the brand plans to continue expanding with a mix of delivery-focused and more experiential formats going forward. (Restaurant Business; 24 September 2026)

Schulson Collective (16 units): Schulson Collective, led by CEO Michael Schulson, operates 16 restaurants across Philadelphia, South Florida and New York City, with estimated annual revenue of $46-70MM. The group most recently expanded to New York City with a Double Knot location that opened in February. (NRN; 23 September 2026)

Craveworthy Brands: Craveworthy Brands opened Big Chicken at Jackson State University, its fourth university location, through a dining partnership with SodexoMAGIC. The opening follows Big Chicken’s recent debut at Georgia Institute of Technology, with the brand now operating 40+ locations and dozens more in development. (Craveworthy Brands; 22 September 2026)