Bojangles’ Names Gary Vaynerchuk to Board of Directors

Bojangles’, Inc. announced today it has added Gary Vaynerchuk, a serial entrepreneur and the CEO and co-founder of VaynerMedia, to its Board of Directors. As a board member, Mr. Vaynerchuk will work alongside senior leadership at the Company to help guide the famous chicken and biscuit chain’s future.

Vaynerchuk is known for establishing one of the first e-commerce wine sites, WineLibrary.com, and helping his father grow the family wine business from $3 million to $60 million in sales in just five years. He now runs VaynerMedia, a full-service digital agency servicing Fortune 500 clients across the company’s four locations.

“With Gary’s extensive experience in building brands and passion for disruptive innovation, he’ll bring a fresh perspective to...

NPD Group: Holiday Cheer Spurred Transaction Gains for Quick Service Restaurants in December

Quick service restaurant (QSR) chains, which represent the bulk of industry transactions, had four consecutive weeks of transaction increases in the retail month of December (December 2 through January 5) and were the primary contributor to the total industry gains in the month, reports The NPD Group. Casual dining chains, on the other hand, began the month stable but saw transaction declines in the last three weeks of the month. Midscale/family dining chains, despite a drop in the last week, finished the month flat, according to NPD’s CREST Performance Alerts, which provides a rapid weekly view of chain-specific transactions and...

Burger King Adds the Impossible Whopper to the 2 for $6 Lineup

Burger King restaurants are jazzing up the popular 2 for $6 promotion, now with the Impossible Whopper sandwich. Available for a limited time only, guests can choose between the Impossible Whopper, Spicy Crispy Chicken, Crispy Chicken and Whopper sandwich.

“We are excited to offer our guests a plant-based product like the Impossible Whopper as part of our 2 for $6 promotion,” said Chris Finazzo, President, North America, Burger King Corporation. “This unbeatable deal gives friends and family a new reason to come in and try the Impossible Whopper and other BK favorites at an amazing value.”

Burger King restaurants rolled out the Impossible Whopper sandwich with a patty made from plants nationwide last year following...

Popeyes Announces New Partnership with DoorDash

Popeyes today announced a new, nationwide partnership with DoorDash, bringing the Popeyes Chicken Sandwich and other fan-favorite menu items directly to customers’ doorsteps around the country. To celebrate the new partnership, Popeyes is thanking its loyal customers by giving away free Chicken Sandwiches exclusively through DoorDash for the next week only.

From January 13 through 19, customers who order $20 or more of Popeyes through DoorDash can receive a free Chicken Sandwich combo meal and a $0 delivery fee with code...

McDonald’s Expanding Trials of Plant-Based Burger in Canada

McDonald’s announced the trial of its Beyond Meat burger has expanded to more locations in Canada as it attempts to gain feedback on its new plant-based menu item.

The burger will be available in 52 restaurants in Southwestern Ontario, starting on January 14. The sandwich, dubbed, “P.L.T.” for plant, lettuce, tomato was introduced to test markets last September in 28 restaurants in Ontario and nearby regions.

“The initial test of the P.L.T. allowed us to learn more about guest demand and how to integrate this new menu item into restaurant..."

Del Taco Brings Back Ground Turkey For a Limited Time

Del Taco Restaurants invites guests to eat (and spend) well with Del in the new year with the return of fan-favorite seasoned ground turkey, available for a limited time. Beginning today, guests can get two Turkey Del Tacos for just $3 at the company’s more than 580 locations nationwide.

Loaded with seasoned ground turkey, freshly grated cheddar cheese, crisp lettuce and fresh chopped tomatoes, all stuffed in a crunchy corn shell, the Turkey Del Taco offers the same craveable Del Taco flavor as the original. In fact, Del Taco’s lean turkey has all the flavor with 40 percent less fat than our seasoned beef.

“At Del Taco, we’re committed to offering menu options that allow guests to reduce the fat, without reducing the flavor – something that we know our guests are seeking...

Burger King Tests the Impossible Croissan’wich

Burger King restaurants announces today it is testing the new Impossible Croissan’wich sandwich. Starting late January in select test markets across the U.S. market, BK guests can now get the same breakfast Croissan’wich sandwich they know and love with a plant-based patty. The all-new, limited-time-only Impossible Croissan’wich features a toasted croissant, egg, cheese and a seasoned plant-based sausage from Impossible Foods. This test makes Burger King the first restaurant to test Impossible Sausage made from plants on a breakfast sandwich.

Participating Burger King restaurants in Savannah, GA, Albuquerque, NM, Montgomery, AL, Lansing, MI and Springfield, IL will be testing the Impossible Croissan’wich. The Impossible Croissan’wich is made with...

Little Caesars Partners with DoorDash for Delivery

Customers can now get the value and convenience, and Crazy Bread they appreciate from Little Caesars in a whole new way: delivery. Further differentiating the company from its pizza chain peers, Little Caesars offers the same every day menu price whether pick-up or delivery and regardless of quantity -- bringing much needed affordability to delivered pizza. So, whether you want a single pizza or enough to feed a game-day crowd, Little Caesars is now geared up to deliver extreme value from thousands of stores throughout the United States. Delivery service is available for the full menu and during all store operating hours.

"We've seen such expensive and complex pricings throughout the pizza industry, and we think it's crazy!" said David Scrivano, President & CEO for Little Caesars. "Some chains require a minimum purchase to get their deals, or...

Church's Chicken Adds New Items to Menu for a Limited Time

Church's Chicken is kicking off the new year with double the deliciousness, featuring a duo of limited-time offerings sure to appeal to the flavor seeker in all of us - without breaking the bank.

First is the all-new Handheld Chicken Pot Pie – a perfectly portable version of classic chicken pot pie, featuring all-white-meat chicken and mixed vegetables in a buttery and creamy sauce wrapped in a hot, flaky and golden fried pie crust. In addition, fans will celebrate the return of one of Church's most popular Down Home taste sensations – Buttermilk Ranch MegaBites – dippable, portable and juicy, all-white-meat chicken bites hand battered and...

Yum! Brands to Acquire The Habit Restaurants

Yum! Brands, Inc. and The Habit Restaurants, Inc. announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement pursuant to which Yum! Brands will acquire all of the issued and outstanding common shares of The Habit Burger Grill for $14 per share in cash or a total of approximately $375 million. The board of directors of The Habit Burger Grill, acting on the recommendation of a special committee composed of non-executive independent directors, has unanimously approved the transaction.

The acquisition of The Habit Burger Grill will add an award-winning fast-casual concept with a loyal fan-base to Yum! Brands, the world’s largest restaurant company in terms of units and parent of the KFC, Pizza Hut and Taco Bell global brands. Founded in California in 1969, The Habit Burger Grill offers...

Pollo Tropical Launches New Vegan Menu Items Featuring Beyond Meat

Starting today, Pollo Tropical is taking its bold flavors beyond chicken with the launch of a Vegan Tropichop and Wrap featuring a "picadillo" made with Beyond Meat.

The Vegan Tropichop gives guests a new way to enjoy one of their most popular menu items. This Tropichop includes your choice of White or Brown Rice, Pollo Tropical's famous Black Beans, and the picadillo made with Beyond Beef, all topped with sautéed peppers and onions. The Vegan Wrap also features Beyond Beef, your choice of rice, plus black beans and Pollo Tropical's sweet plantains wrapped in a tortilla. These options are launching at $4.49 and $4.09 respectively.

Pollo Tropical partnered with Beyond Meat to develop these plant-based options that are...

REPORTER: Chicken Sandwich Wars

Whether you’re a loyal foodie hungry for a new twist on an old favorite, or a chicken industry veteran who has weathered more than a few conflicts, almost everyone has heard of or were quite possibly impacted by the great chicken war of 2019. This past summer one certainly couldn’t tweet, turn on the TV, listen to the radio, or pop in your favorite fast food establishment without seeing or hearing some reference to the month-long marketing campaign turned social...

Axel Schwan Joins Global Leadership Team at Restaurant Brands International

Restaurant Brands International CEO Jose Cil announced that Axel Schwan will join the global leadership team of the company. Mr. Schwan was appointed the Regional President of Tim Hortons for Canada and the US in October.

"I am very proud to welcome Axel to the leadership team. I have worked closely with him in Europe, the U.S. and now in Canada and he has proven himself to be a valuable leader of our Tim Hortons business, as well as a strong leader of people and teams," said Mr. Cil.

Axel Schwan will add the Latin America region to his accountabilities. Other international Tim Hortons locations and...

Chipotle Debuts New Restaurant Design to Support its $1 Billion Digital Business

Chipotle Mexican Grill announced today that it's testing a new restaurant design to better support its billion-dollar digital business. The evolved design will be trialed in four new restaurants of the following types: an urban store front, a standalone restaurant with a Chipotlane and an endcap unit with a Chipotlane, in Chicago, Cincinnati, and two locations in Phoenix.

Additionally, the new restaurant design will be trialed in two retrofits in Newport Beach and San Diego. As part of its stage gate process, Chipotle will assess the performance of each restaurant for transactions, guest feedback, and ability to incorporate future menu innovations, among other metrics, before...

Carl's Jr. and Hardees Introduce Beyond Meat All-Day Menu Items Nationwide

CKE, the parent company of Carl’s Jr. and Hardee’s, today announced that the company will expand its partnership with Beyond Meat, a leader in plant-based meat, with the introduction of new all-day plant-based protein options during breakfast, lunch and dinner nationwide.

“Since its debut less than a year ago, Carl’s Jr. has sold more than 6.7 million Beyond Famous Star burgers to-date, making it the most successful product launch in the past two years. We’re continuing to build on this success by expanding our Beyond Meat partnership to Hardee’s,” said Patty Trevino, Senior Vice President, Brand Marketing at CKE Restaurants. “As we head into 2020, the addition of these new options at both restaurants is...

Taco Bell's 21 $1 Menu Offerings Lead the Way for Value in 2020

While the competition shrinks their dollar menus as small as the menu items on them, Taco Bell is bucking the trend by kicking off 2020 with 21 flavorful $1 offerings. Leading the way, the brand is reintroducing one of its most successful $1 menu items, the $1 Double Stacked Tacos in three craveable flavors. The Nacho Crunch, Chipotle Cheddar and Reaper Ranch Double Stacked Tacos will be available a la carte and in a $5 Cravings Box nationwide and for a limited time starting on December 26.

"It's more important than ever before that we give fans the craveable food they not only want, but can afford, and we've built our menu with some of our most innovative items from $1 to $5 to ensure there is...

Dunkin’ Brands Names Scott Murphy President, Dunkin’ Americas

Dunkin’ Brands, the parent company of Dunkin' and Baskin-Robbins, today announced that Scott Murphy, formerly Dunkin’ U.S. Chief Operating Officer, has been promoted to President, Dunkin’ Americas. He assumes the role from Dave Hoffmann, who continues to serve as Dunkin’ Brands CEO. Additionally, Dana Reid has been promoted to Vice President, Field Marketing, Dunkin’ U.S.

Murphy, a 15-year veteran with the company, will have responsibility in his new role for all aspects of operations, restaurant development, franchising, field marketing, supply chain, and consumer packaged goods (CPG) for the approximately 10,000 Dunkin’ restaurants in North and South America.

“Scott is a rare leader who is both strategic and impactful. He inspires all who work with him through his vision, attention to detail, and ability to...

NPD Group: Thanksgiving Week is Synonymous with Food but Not with Restaurant Transactions

Restaurant transactions for Thanksgiving week, the week ending December 1, were down 7% compared to same week last year (Thanksgiving was a week earlier in 2018), reports The NPD Group. Restaurant transactions declined by 8% for both the casual dining and quick service restaurant segments during Thanksgiving week, according to CREST Performance Alerts, which provides a rapid weekly view of chain-specific transactions and share trends for 73 quick service, fast casual, midscale, and casual dining chains.

Midscale/family dining restaurants, which offer sit down breakfasts, pies, and other desserts, realized an 18% increase in transactions during Thanksgiving week compared to same period year ago. Restaurant transactions for...

Nathan’s Famous Hires Industry Veterans to Lead Franchise Development and Operations

Nathan’s Famous, Inc announced yesterday the hiring of two industry veterans, Erik Mallon and Jim Hicks, to bolster its franchise sales and development teams. Both bring over 25 years of restaurant and franchise experience to the Nathan’s Famous brand.

Erik Mallon will serve as Senior Director of Franchise Development, and Jim Hicks assumes the role of Director of Operational Services and Training.

“The past year has been a busy one as we’ve readied Nathan’s Famous for new franchise growth and development," states James Walker, Senior Vice President, Restaurants. "Hiring these two industry veterans helps...

McDonald’s Names Ian Borden as President, International

McDonald's Corporation today announced that Ian Borden, most recently President, International Developmental Licensed (IDL) Markets, has been appointed to President, International, effective immediately. Borden will continue reporting to Chris Kempczinski, McDonald’s President and Chief Executive Officer. This announcement follows the appointment of Joe Erlinger to President, McDonald's USA.

In his new role, Borden will assume oversight for all international markets, including International Operated Markets (IOM) which include all wholly-owned markets outside of the U.S., in addition to the more than 80 markets in the IDL segment that he oversees in his current role.

“Ian has a proven record of focusing on the customer to deliver profitable business growth while strengthening collaboration with our global franchisee community,” said Chris Kempczinski, McDonald’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “His deep experiences leading...

Burger King Announces Plan to Develop More Than 100 New Restaurants in Canada 

Burger King is announcing plans to open more than 100 restaurants in Ontario and Manitoba over the next five years. To drive growth in the underpenetrated burger market of Canada, Burger King Canada has inked a new five-year expansion deal with long-time partner, Redberry Restaurants ("Redberry"), to grow the number of Burger King restaurants in Canada by 25% so even more guests can enjoy the iconic flame-grilled Whopper sandwich, chicken fries and other Burger King favourites.

"For far too long, Canadian burger lovers have not had enough flame grilled options to choose from," said Matt Wright, General Manager, Burger King Canada. "Premium ingredients and signature recipes have defined Burger King for 50 successful years in Canada. We're excited that even more Canadians will be introduced to...

Sonic Drive-In Sizes Up With the Biggie Cheese

Sonic Drive-In is beefing up the menu with the Biggie Cheese, a new cheeseburger piled high with double the beef and triple the cheese to prove that size does matter when it come to satisfying those savory cravings.

Available for just $4.99, the Biggie Cheese is made with two juicy 100% pure beef patties, covered with three slices of melty American cheese and stacked with grilled onions, crisp pickles, and tangy Hickory BBQ sauce double-decker-style on a bakery-soft brioche bun.

“With a whopping three slices of melty cheese and two juicy beef patties, we not only made our classicly delicious cheeseburger bigger, we also...

KFC Canada Introduces Plant-Based Chicken 

KFC Canada announced its latest innovation, KFC Plant-Based Fried Chicken. With the desire to share the Colonel's legendary finger lickin' good taste with every Canadian, KFC Canada partnered with Lightlife, a leading plant-based protein brand, to create a signature Plant-Based Fried Chicken Sandwich and Popcorn Chicken.

KFC Canada's Plant-Based Fried Chicken will make its debut during a limited, one-restaurant, one-day test on Wednesday, November 27 in Mississauga, Ontario. KFC fans looking to try the new plant-based options are invited to visit KFC at 6055 Creditview Road in Mississauga, Ontario between the hours of 10:30am to 11:00pm, or while supplies last.

"We believe the Colonel's famous finger lickin' good taste should have no boundaries," said Sam Redman, Chief Marketing Officer, KFC Canada. "So we've created...

Jack in the Box Inc. Reports Fourth Quarter FY 2019 Earnings

Jack in the Box today reported financial results for the fourth quarter and fiscal year ended September 29, 2019.

Jack in the Box system same-store sales increased 3.0 percent in the fourth quarter. Company same-store sales increased 3.5 percent, driven by average check growth of 2.8 percent and transaction growth of 0.7 percent.

Lenny Comma, chairman and chief executive officer, said, "Our 2019 operating results demonstrate the momentum in the Jack in the Box brand, with same-store sales improving to the strongest performance in four years. We have now achieved...

Packaged Facts: Consumer Use of Restaurant Coupons

Though overall use of coupons is down since 2009, consumer use and redemption of restaurant coupons is up by five percentage points, to about a third of U.S. adults, according to Eating Trends: Restaurant Use, the fourth study in a five report Eating Trends series by market research firm Packaged Facts.

Restaurant coupons have been given a boost by instant, digital, and online/app point-of-sales use through newer delivery services—this is on top of longstanding restaurant coupon use for fast-food pizza chains (including delivery or take-out) or other fast-food chains (including for drive-through).

These services have helped diversify the range of eating establishments and the range of...

Subway Restaurants Names John Chidsey CEO 

Subway Restaurants announced that John Chidsey has been named Chief Executive Officer effective November 18, 2019.

John's career as a global franchise executive and senior leader for some of the world's well-known corporations spans brands in and outside of the food and beverage industries.

John was previously the Chairman and CEO of Burger King Holdings, Inc.

Prior to that, he served as Burger King's President and Chief Financial Officer and held other senior management positions...

NPD Group Releases Report on Eating Patterns in America 

A burger has held the crown as the top food ordered at U.S. restaurants for decades, but this year that burger may well be a plant-based burger, according to this year’s edition of The NPD Group’s Eating Patterns in America, which is an annual compilation of the company’s daily tracking of U.S. consumption behavior. U.S. consumers may appear to be creatures of habit in their eating patterns but the foods they eat today have a modern twist that is influenced by a host of factors like ethnicity, age/generational group, and health/social consciousness.

“For 34 years The NPD Group has been tracking eating patterns in America and from a topline view many of the same foods are being consumed today as they were...

McDonald's USA Signs Large-Scale Virtual Power Purchase Agreements

McDonald's announced the signing of two long-term, large-scale virtual power purchase agreements (VPPAs), whereby McDonald's will buy renewable energy generated by Aviator Wind West, a wind power project located in Coke County, Texas and a solar project located in Texas. The combined 380MW in renewable energy expected to be generated from McDonald's contribution to these projects will help to prevent over 700,000 metric tons of carbon emissions each year, which is equivalent to planting more than 11 million trees or taking over 140,000 cars off the road for one year. Additionally, the energy generated by these U.S. projects will be equivalent to over 2,500 restaurants-worth of electricity.

In March 2018, McDonald's became the first restaurant company in the world to set a greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions target approved by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). These two U.S. renewable energy projects will...

Papa John’s Strengthens and Streamlines Management Team

Papa John's International, Inc. today announced a new, more streamlined senior management team, with additions to the team as well as promotions and expanded roles for key leaders. The updated management structure aligns with the company’s new strategy and priorities.

“After two months as CEO, I’m more excited than ever by the dedication, drive and resilience of Papa John’s team members and franchisees. Today I’m announcing a new management structure that will be the foundation on which we build our future,” said Rob Lynch, President and Chief Executive Officer. “As we introduce a more focused plan and strategic priorities for the company, we are realigning Papa John’s senior management, promoting leaders within the company and adding proven talent. The strong, streamlined team has more clearly defined responsibilities and...

Papa John’s Announces Third Quarter 2019 Results

Papa John’s International, Inc. today announced financial results for the three and nine months ended September 29, 2019.

Highlights

• Third quarter 2019 loss per diluted share of ($0.10) as compared to third quarter 2018 loss per diluted share of ($0.42)
• Excluding Special items, adjusted earnings per diluted share of $0.21 compared to $0.19 for the third quarter of 2018
• Third quarter system-wide North America comparable sales increase of 1.0%
• Third quarter international comparable sales increase of 1.6%; international franchise sales increase of...

The Wendy's Company Reports Third Quarter 2019 Results

The Wendy's Company today reported unaudited results for the third quarter ended September 29, 2019.

"We delivered a strong quarter of sales and earnings growth, demonstrating that we are building an even stronger foundation for the Wendy's® brand," President and Chief Executive Officer Todd Penegor said. "We remain relentlessly focused on executing our plan to accelerate same-restaurant sales and drive global restaurant expansion across the globe. We are well positioned to drive growth in 2020 and beyond to achieve our vision of becoming the world's most thriving and beloved restaurant brand, and to become...

Starbucks Reports Q4 and Full Year Fiscal 2019 Results

Starbucks Corporation today reported financial results for its 13-week fiscal fourth quarter and 52-week fiscal year ended September 29, 2019. GAAP results in fiscal 2019 and fiscal 2018 include items which are excluded from non-GAAP results. Please refer to the reconciliation of GAAP measures to non-GAAP measures at the end of this release for more information.

“I’m very pleased with our strong finish to fiscal 2019, as we sustained positive momentum across each of our business segments,” said Kevin Johnson, president and ceo. “Our U.S. business delivered 6% comparable store sales growth in the fourth quarter, while China grew comparable store sales by...

Yum! Brands Reports Third Quarter Results

Yum! Brands, Inc. today reported results for the third-quarter ended September 30, 2019. Worldwide system sales excluding foreign currency translation grew 8%, with 7% net-new units and 3% same-store sales growth. Third-quarter GAAP EPS was $0.81, a decrease of (42)%. Third-quarter EPS excluding Special Items was $0.80, a decrease of (23)%.

Greg Creed Comments

Greg Creed, CEO, said “Following a very strong first half of 2019 and in line with our expectations, third-quarter results were consistent with our long-term growth model. We delivered system sales growth of 8%, with same-store sales of...

Restaurant Brands International Inc. Reports Third Quarter 2019 Results

Restaurant Brands International Inc. today reported financial results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2019.

Jose Cil, Chief Executive Officer of Restaurant Brands International Inc. ("RBI") commented, "During the third quarter, we grew system-wide sales nearly 9% through a combination of strong global comparable sales growth and restaurant expansion. At Burger King, we continue to see exciting growth around the world, with our system-wide sales increasing approximately 15% internationally for the quarter and the successful launch of our Impossible Whopper driving 5% comparable sales growth in the US, our strongest level since 2015. Popeyes had one of...

Pizza Hut Tests Two New Product Innovations

Since the beginning of time, pizza boxes were square and the round pies inside of them were topped with meat. Not anymore. Tomorrow, October 23, Pizza Hut will introduce a limited-time test of a plant-based pizza topping served up in a game-changing ROUND pizza box. The test of both innovations will take place exclusively at one Pizza Hut location in Phoenix where America's Original Pizza Company will introduce the new Garden Specialty Pizza topped with Incogmeato by MorningStar Farms Italian sausage.

"We innovate for human's sake and we'll win on taste—PERIOD. At Pizza Hut we don't do anything halfway and improving the customer experience and delivering a better tasting pizza is our core mission," said Marianne Radley, chief brand officer, Pizza Hut. "When we talk about feeding more...

Starbucks Delivers Comes to Five New U.S. Markets 

Starbucks Coffee Company today announced the latest expansion of Starbucks Delivers to five new U.S. markets, Atlanta, Denver, Phoenix, Philadelphia, and New Jersey, as well as further expansion in the New York Metro. The delivery program, which initially launched as a pilot in partnership with Uber Eats in late 2018, is now available in a total of 16 major U.S. markets and will reach national availability in early 2020.

“Following our recent commitment to make delivery available nationwide in 2020, we are excited to bring Starbucks Delivers to five more major U.S. markets,” said Roz Brewer, group president and chief operating officer for Starbucks. “The expansion of Starbucks Delivers is part of our continuous effort to...

McDonald's Reports Third Quarter 2019 Results

McDonald's Corporation today announced results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2019.

"Our third quarter performance was strong, and broad-based momentum continued with our 17th consecutive quarter of global comparable sales growth," said McDonald's President and Chief Executive Officer Steve Easterbrook. "Globally, our customers are rewarding our commitment of running better restaurants and executing our Velocity Growth Plan by visiting more often."

Third Quarter Highlights:

• Strong, global comparable sales of 5.9% demonstrated broad-based strength with the International Operated segment increase of 5.6%, the U.S. increase of 4.8%, and the International Developmental Licensed segment increase of...

Del Taco Reports Fiscal Third Quarter 2019 Financial Results

Del Taco Restaurants, Inc., the second largest Mexican-American quick service restaurant chain by units in the United States, today reported fiscal third quarter 2019 financial results for the 12-week period ending September 10, 2019.

Fiscal Third Quarter 2019 Highlights

• System-wide comparable restaurant sales increased 1.0%;
• Company-operated comparable restaurant sales increased 0.4%. Company-operated comparable restaurant sales were comprised of average check growth of 4.1%, including modest menu mix growth, mostly offset by a transaction decline of 3.7%;
• Franchised comparable restaurant sales increased 1.8%;
• Total revenue of $120.2 million representing...

Dunkin' and Beyond Meat Accelerate Nationwide Launch of Beyond Sausage Sandwich

Dunkin' today marked a major step in making plant-based menu options easily accessible to Americans everywhere, announcing plans for the nationwide rollout of its highly-anticipated Beyond Sausage Sandwich. First introduced exclusively in Manhattan in July, the Beyond Sausage Sandwich quickly became one of the top-selling sandwiches, driving Dunkin' to accelerate plans for the national launch, with participating U.S. restaurants serving the Beyond Sausage Sandwich beginning November 6.

Dunkin' is the first nationwide U.S. quick service restaurant brand to Go Beyond traditional on-the-go breakfast choices by serving Beyond Breakfast Sausage. Offering the delicious taste and texture of a juicy, savory breakfast sausage patty, Dunkin's Beyond Sausage Sandwich features Beyond Meat's breakfast sausage patty made with...

Chick-fil-A Announces Dine-In Mobile Ordering

Chick-fil-A announced a new technology that will make ordering and dining at Chick-fil-A even more convenient. “Dine-in mobile ordering” is a new ordering option via the Chick-fil-A App that allows guests to order from a table in the restaurant and eliminates the need to stand in line or place an order at the counter. Starting today, dine-in mobile ordering is available at participating Chick-fil-A restaurants nationwide.

With dine-in mobile ordering, customers can conveniently order their meal via the Chick-fil-A App and have their meal delivered directly to their table by a restaurant Team Member. Dine-in mobile ordering works in three easy steps...

Hardee's to Begin Testing Beyond Meat at Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner 

Hardee’s, known for quality you can taste, today announced it will be partnering with Beyond Meat as one of the first U.S. quick service restaurants to offer plant-based breakfast, lunch and dinner options. In keeping with the brand’s innovative heritage of offering new twists on classic favorites, Hardee’s will be testing a new Beyond Breakfast Sausage Biscuit and an Original Beyond Thickburger for a limited-time in two regional markets – Raleigh, NC and Kansas City, MO, beginning October 16, 2019.

To celebrate the launch, Hardee’s will offer customers a free Beyond Breakfast Sausage Biscuit, during breakfast hours, or Original Beyond Thickburger, during...

Dunkin' Brands Announces Departure of Tony Weisman, U.S. Chief Marketing Officer

Dunkin’ Brands, the parent company of Dunkin' and Baskin-Robbins, today announced that Tony Weisman, Chief Marketing Officer Dunkin’ U.S., is stepping down from his position effective December 1, 2019. The company will immediately begin a search for his replacement, and Mr. Weisman has agreed to assist in the search. Until the appointment of a new CMO, the marketing department will report to Dave Hoffmann, Dunkin’ Brands CEO and Dunkin’ U.S. President.

“Tony has played a key role in the transformation of our brand, including our widely lauded decision to drop “Donuts” from our logo, our very successful espresso relaunch, and the introduction of innovative products like our plant-based Beyond Sausage Breakfast Sandwich, currently available in Manhattan. Additionally, he has assembled...

Post-Summer Back to the Grind Kept U.S. Restaurant Transactions Flat in September

The post-summer back to business and school as usual kept U.S. restaurant transactions flat in September compared to year ago, reports The NPD Group. The month started out with transactions up but flattened as the month went on, according to NPD’s CREST Performance Alerts, which provides a rapid weekly view of chain-specific transactions and share trends for 73 quick service, fast casual, midscale, and casual dining chains.

Transactions at quick service restaurant (QSR) chains, which represent the bulk of industry transactions, were flat in September compared to year ago. While the full service segments of casual dining and...

Burger King Partners with Uber Eats for Delivery

All of your favorite flame grilled sandwiches from Burger King restaurants can now be delivered right to your doorstep through Uber Eats. BK guests nationwide can now place a food order, including the iconic Whopper Sandwich, with the tap of a button on the Uber Eats app.

“At Burger King restaurants, delivery is a major priority to ensure our food is available to anyone, anywhere,” said Chris Finazzo, President, North America, Burger King Corporation. “We know our guests value convenience and adding the Burger King brand to Uber Eats is another way we will meet the demands of millions of people on this platform.”

“We’re thrilled to team up with Burger King restaurants to offer their beloved menu items to...

KFC Introduces Fried Wings 

Kentucky Fried Chicken is delivering a touchdown this football season with the introduction of its new Kentucky Fried Wings™. The chicken expert's new, always hot and fresh wings are available in participating KFC U.S. restaurants today as part of the permanent menu. Making this even hotter, fans can try them out from the comfort of their own home with free delivery* on kfc.com, the fried chicken chain's new online delivery platform, Grubhub and Seamless.

Sure to be the MVP of this season's tailgate parties and more, Kentucky Fried Wings are available classic (unsauced) or tossed in your choice of three sauces: Nashville Hot, Buffalo or Honey BBQ – all so finger lickin' good, you won't even need a Wet-Nap.

Thanks to Kentucky Fried Wings, gone are the days of waiting for hot and fresh wings, or needing to call ahead with an order. Kentucky Fried Wings are...

Subway Restaurants Names New Chief Marketing Officer

The Subway brand is proud to name Carrie Walsh as Chief Marketing Officer, North America, where she will be responsible for driving the brand's North America marketing and advertising strategy, as well as defining global brand standards and marketing strategies throughout Subway's international markets.

A seasoned marketing professional, Walsh joins Subway with more than 15 years of experience building brands across the restaurant, retail and CPG industries. Most recently, Walsh led marketing for Michaels Stores, the largest arts & crafts retailer in North America. Walsh also previously held the Chief Marketing Officer role for YUM! Brands Pizza Hut, where she led teams across marketing disciplines including calendar planning, menu insights and...

Carl's Jr. Launches New BBQ Cheeseburger Made with Beyond Meat 

Carl’s Jr., known for craveable menu items, is excited to expand its partnership with Beyond Meat® to launch an innovative new menu item – the Beyond BBQ Cheeseburger – available at participating restaurants beginning October 9, 2019. Drawing on the success of its Beyond Famous Star, the restaurant developed a new burger build meant to complement the Beyond Burger™ patty, while drawing on the flavors of its famed Western Bacon Cheeseburger.

The new Beyond BBQ Cheeseburger will feature some of the restaurant’s most popular ingredients including a Beyond Burger patty topped with Carl's Jr. original BBQ sauce, American cheese, crispy onion rings, all on a sesame seed bun, for an indulgent flexitarian option that turns...

Domino's Pizza Announces Third Quarter 2019 Financial Results

Domino's Pizza, Inc., the largest pizza company in the world based on global retail sales, announced results for the third quarter, comprised of growth in global retail sales and earnings per share. Global retail sales increased 5.8% in the third quarter, or 7.5% without the negative impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates. U.S. same store sales grew 2.4% during the quarter versus the prior year quarter, continuing the positive sales momentum in the Company's U.S. business.

The international division also posted positive results, with same store sales growth of 1.7% during the quarter. The third quarter marked the 103rd consecutive quarter of international same store sales growth and the 34th consecutive quarter of...

McRib Season is Almost Here

‘Tis the season for the saucy return of the McRib to participating McDonald’s restaurants nationwide!

The craveable and delicious sandwich – a seasoned boneless pork slathered in tangy barbecue sauce and topped with slivered onions and tart pickles – is set to return for a limited time in more than 10,000 U.S. restaurants as early as Monday, Oct. 7. To locate the closest participating restaurant, customers can enter their zip code at mcdfinder.com.

“We’re always listening to our customers and we know the McRib has some of the most loyal fans,” said Chef Chad Schafer, Senior Director of Culinary Innovation & Commercialization at McDonald’s USA. “This year we’re excited to...

Whataburger Reveals New Breakfast Burger

Whataburger’s brand-new Breakfast Burger is officially here. The burger features a 100% beef patty, Whataburger’s one-of-a-kind Creamy Pepper Sauce, two slices of savory bacon, a freshly-cracked egg, three crispy hash browns, and American cheese, all conveniently sandwiched in a 4” bun. The Creamy Pepper Sauce is also available as a dipping sauce.

“Anytime we talk about the Breakfast Burger, people get really, really excited,” said Whataburger Vice President of Marketing and Innovation Rich Scheffler. “This is a hearty creation, and some of our customers said they would drive out of their way to get this. We’re excited to be able to offer...

Burger King Announces Agreement to Launch in the Baltics

Burger King today announced a new agreement to open restaurants in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. The three Baltic states are among the few remaining countries in Europe where Burger King currently does not have restaurants.

"We are excited to develop beautiful new Burger King restaurants and introduce guests in the Baltics to our iconic brand featuring our great-tasting food with Tallink Grupp" said David Shear, President, Burger King and Popeyes EMEA. "We are confident that guests will enjoy our world-famous flame-grilled flavor, including our iconic WHOPPER® sandwich, and experience our brand their way through personalized digital innovation."

Tallink Grupp, which launched the first floating Burger King restaurant on board a cruise ship in 2016, has now acquired the exclusive development rights for...

McDonald’s Tests New Plant-Based Burger in Canada

McDonald’s will be conducting a 12-week test of a new plant-based burger called the P.L.T., which stands for Plant. Lettuce. Tomato. in 28 restaurants in Southwestern Ontario, starting September 30. The P.L.T. is made with a Beyond Meat plant-based patty that has been crafted exclusively by McDonald’s, for McDonald’s, to deliver the iconic taste customers know and love.

“McDonald’s has a proud legacy of fun, delicious and craveable food—and now, we’re extending that to a test of a juicy, plant-based burger,” said Ann Wahlgren, McDonald’s VP of Global Menu Strategy. “We’ve been working on our recipe and now we’re ready to...

Inspire Brands to Acquire Jimmy John’s

Inspire Brands (“Inspire”) today announced that it has entered into an agreement to acquire Jimmy John’s Sandwiches (“Jimmy John’s”). The agreement was unanimously approved by the Jimmy John’s Board of Directors, including Founder and Chairman Jimmy John Liautaud. The financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Inspire is a multi-brand restaurant company whose portfolio includes more than 8,300 Arby’s, Buffalo Wild Wings, SONIC Drive-In and Rusty Taco locations worldwide.Following the completion of the transaction, Inspire will be the fourth-largest restaurant company in the United States with more than $14 billion in annual system sales and more than 11,200 restaurants across 16 countries.

“Jimmy John’s has found the ideal home at Inspire,” Liautaud said. “Inspire’s long-term approach, culture of innovation and commitment to...

Bojangles’ Sizzling Pork Chop Griller Biscuit Returns for a Limited Time

Beginning today, the sizzle is back with Bojangles’ one-of-a-kind Pork Chop Griller Biscuit. As one of the only grilled pork chop biscuits on fast food menus, the Pork Chop Griller Biscuit adds to Bojangles’ unique offerings of real deal Southern flavor for a limited time only.

The savory Pork Chop Griller is marinated in a zesty dry-rub seasoning that gives it a signature tangy Southern flare. The tender pork chop is served inside one of Bojangles’ made-from-scratch buttermilk biscuits, creating a biscuit sandwich unlike any other.

“Every year, this biscuit sandwich is a huge hit with our customers,” said Jackie Woodward, Bojangles’ chief marketing officer. “Get it for breakfast, get it for lunch or dinner, just get down to...

Papa John’s International Expands Into Portugal

Papa John's International, Inc. continues to expand its global presence, opening a new restaurant in Portugal. It is located in Lisbon, in the Amoreiras zone.

Papa John’s new restaurant in Portugal is being opened by Drake Food Service International, the master franchisee in the Iberian Peninsula, Chile, Panamá, and Costa Rica.

“We are committed to developing the Papa John’s brand in Latin America and Europe. We look forward to becoming the most...

Dunkin Rolls Out Two Major Mobile App and DD Perks Enhancements

Running on Dunkin' is getting faster for all this fall, as the brand today announced that the quickest and most convenient way to order – On-The-Go Mobile Ordering – is becoming available to all of its customers. Previously available exclusively to DD Perks® Rewards Program members paying with an enrolled Dunkin' gift card, the new Guest Order feature allows any customer to place an On-The-Go Mobile Order through the Dunkin' App and pick it up by either walking in-store or going through the drive-thru.

To place an order, guests simply select 'Guest Order' on the redesigned Dunkin' App home screen, select their menu items and then pay using the debit or credit card of their choice, with other payment options coming later this year. The new On-The-Go Guest Order feature has started...

Chick-fil-A Now Serving "No Antibiotics Ever" Chicken at All Restaurants in the U.S.

Chick-fil-A announced today it has reached its goal to serve No Antibiotics Ever (also known as "NAE") chicken in its 2,400+ Chick-fil-A restaurants in the United States. In 2014, Chick-fil-A announced it was pursuing a bold commitment to serve only chicken raised with No Antibiotics Ever nationwide by the end of 2019. Along with supply partners, Chick-fil-A met the milestone early, serving only No Antibiotics Ever chicken at every Chick-fil-A restaurant in the United States since May 2019. Beginning in October, packaging in restaurants will reflect this achievement.

The No Antibiotics Ever commitment made by Chick-fil-A allows no antibiotics of any kind to be administered to the chicken within its supply, starting from the egg. The United States Department of Agriculture audits and verifies that suppliers are...

NPD Group: U.S. Restaurant Cash Registers Rang More in August

Amidst a chicken sandwich war, taking advantage of the last remaining days of summer vacation, and the want of having someone else do the cooking, consumers made more purchases at U.S. restaurants in August than they did the year before, reports The NPD Group. Quick service restaurants (QSRs) were the primary beneficiaries of this consumer demand with same-store dollars up by 4.4 percent.

Restaurant transactions were positive for QSR chains throughout the month of August, according to NPD’s CREST Performance Alerts, which provides a rapid weekly view of chain-specific transactions and share trends for 73 quick service, fast casual, midscale chains, and casual dining chains. The full service segment of casual and midscale/family chains continued to be soft compared to...

Taco Bell Rolls Out New Vegetarian Menu Nationwide

For years, Taco Bell's delicious vegetarian menu items have been one of the best kept secrets for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. Beginning Thursday, the brand that has proudly offered great tasting vegetarian options for some time, will launch a not-so-new "new" vegetarian menu nationwide for the first time ever. With 13 great tasting menu items available at more than 7,000 participating restaurants, Taco Bell continues to lead the way with a meaningful vegetarian menu and remains committed to making the items more accessible by including them on a permanent menu board.

The "new" menu will feature some exciting items that are all American Vegetarian Association (AVA)-certified, including the Black Bean Crunchwrap Supreme and Black Bean Quesarito as well as the classic 7-Layer Burrito and Bean Burrito. In addition to these four items, fans can find another nine bold, flavorful vegetarian items sprinkled throughout the larger menu, all indicated by...

Del Taco Partners with Postmates for Delivery

Del Taco Restaurants, Inc., the nation's second largest Mexican quick service restaurant, today announced it has partnered with Postmates, the leader in enabling anything to be delivered on demand, to provide fast delivery from its participating corporate and franchise restaurants to wherever the customer may be. To launch the partnership, from September 16th through September 22nd guests can save $5 off any Del Taco delivery order of $20 or more, from Postmates.

"We know how important convenience is to our guests, and are thrilled to be able to continue expanding our delivery services through a partnership with Postmates," said Barry Westrum, Del Taco's Chief Marketing Officer. "With Postmates' popularity and reach throughout key Del Taco markets, such as Southern California, we know even more fans will be able to enjoy their Del Taco favorites delivered...

McDonald’s to Acquire Apprente, an Early Stage Leader in Voice Technology

McDonald’s Corporation (MCD) announced today an agreement to acquire Apprente, an early stage leader in voice-based, conversational technology. The agreement marks another bold step in advancing employee and customer facing innovations while further strengthening McDonald’s technology capabilities. The announcement comes after extensive exploration with several parties, including evaluating Apprente’s solutions in McDonald’s test restaurants.

Apprente was founded in 2017 in Mountain View, California, to create voice-based platforms for complex, multilingual, multi-accent and multi-item conversational ordering. In McDonald’s restaurants, this technology is expected to allow for faster, simpler and more accurate order taking at the Drive Thru with future potential to incorporate into mobile ordering and kiosks.

“Building our technology infrastructure and digital capabilities are fundamental to our Velocity Growth Plan and enable us to meet rising expectations from our customers, while...

Wendy's Announces Plans to Launch Breakfast Across the U.S. System in 2020

The Wendy's Company announced today that it plans to launch its breakfast menu, currently available in more than 300 restaurants, across the U.S. system in 2020. The menu features signature items that takes the best of Wendy's, from Applewood smoked bacon to the Frosty®, and creatively delivers them to fans for breakfast. Signature items include the Breakfast Baconator®, Frosty-ccino, and Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit.

"Launching breakfast in our U.S. restaurants nationwide provides incredible growth opportunities," said Todd Penegor, President and CEO of The Wendy's Company. "We are well-positioned to pursue it. We believe we have the right team and structure in place, and...

Yum China Announces Transition of Chief Financial Officer

Yum China Holdings, Inc. today announced that Jacky Lo, who has served as the Company's Chief Financial Officer since June 2017, intends to leave the Company to pursue professional opportunities in Hong Kong to be closer to his family. Jacky will step down as the Company's Chief Financial Officer effective October 16, 2019. Ka Wai Andy Yeung will assume the role of Chief Financial Officer of the Company effective the same day.

"We are grateful for all of the contributions Jacky has made to the Company and recognize the critical role he played in growing and strengthening our business since the spin-off, as well as for his ongoing engagement on succession discussions to ensure a smooth CFO transition." said Joey Wat, Yum China's CEO.

"We are pleased to welcome Andy to our team. Andy brings a wealth of knowledge to this critical role, and his deep experience in all facets of finance will be a tremendous asset to our Company. We look forward to...

McDonald's Adds Grubhub as Delivery Partner in NYC and Tri-State Area

Today, McDonald's USA and Grubhub announced a new partnership to begin expanding McDelivery to approximately 500 restaurants in the NYC and Tri-State Area. McDelivery will be available on the Grubhub marketplace and the company's New York brand, Seamless.

"At McDonald's, we're constantly innovating to find new ways to best serve our customers whenever and wherever they want, whether it's dining in our newly modernized restaurants, on-the-go through mobile order and pay or our drive-thru, or McDelivery. The convenience of McDelivery has been available to our customers in the NYC and Tri-State area for the past two years," said Marcos Quesada, Vice President of McDonald's Stamford Field Office. "We are excited to add Seamless and Grubhub, leading delivery platforms in NYC, to our McDelivery service and to create more options for...

McDonald’s to Spice Up Menus with New Spicy BBQ Glazed Tenders and Spicy BBQ Chicken Sandwich

September just got a whole lot saucier at McDonald’s.

Introducing McDonald’s new Spicy BBQ Glazed Tenders and Spicy BBQ Chicken Sandwich, two new chicken menu items coming to participating restaurants nationwide for a limited time beginning on September 11. Perfectly sauced with just the right amount of spice, the new offerings are set to be an unexpected, feel-good boost to any occasion, from backyard parties to tailgates.

• Spicy BBQ Glazed Tenders: Picture our classic Buttermilk Crispy Tenders, battered and breaded to perfection, hand-tossed and perfectly sauced to order in our new, mouthwatering Spicy BBQ glaze that contains just a hint of jalapeno.
• Spicy BBQ Chicken Sandwich: This BBQ staple features...

Bojangles’ Names Experienced Restaurant Finance Leader as Chief Financial Officer

Bojangles’, Inc. announced today that accomplished finance executive and restaurant industry veteran Reese Stewart has joined the company as its new Chief Financial Officer. In this role, Reese will help lead the company’s efforts to drive value through strategic focus, team development, and operational and financial excellence.

Reese comes to Bojangles’ after a nearly 15-year career with CKE Restaurants, the parent company of the Carl’s Jr. and Hardee’s brands. Most recently, Reese was Senior Vice President of Finance and Chief Accounting Officer for CKE. He also previously served as the company’s Interim Chief Financial Officer. While with CKE, Reese developed and led financial teams that supported the domestic and international growth platform of both brands, was instrumental in a variety of strategic and capital transactions, and...

Shaquille O’Neal Surprises Fans in New Papa John’s “Better Day” Campaign

Papa John’s International, Inc. announces the launch of its new “Better Day” campaign featuring Board of Directors member and franchisee Shaquille O’Neal. The campaign includes three television ads, which will begin airing nationally on Thursday, September 5th, featuring O’Neal making pizzas with Papa John’s team members and engaging Los Angeles residents across the city during deliveries at different locations.

“I had a blast making these commercials and you’ll see that come through on screen,” said O’Neal. “As a Papa John’s board member and franchisee, I’m invested in the business based on my belief that pizza is fun and it brings us all together. The 120,000 team members all over the world make the company what it is, so it was important to help...

Carl’s Jr. Expands Partnership With Beyond Meat After Widespread Success at U.S. Locations

Carl’s Jr. today announced that the brand is expanding its partnership with Beyond Meat® to launch the Beyond Famous Star with Cheese in Canada, the brand’s first expansion of the product into an international market building on the success of the burger in the U.S.

The Beyond Famous Star is a flexitarian take on the restaurant’s fan-favorite Famous Star burger, featuring the 100% plant-based patty from Beyond Meat. The quarter-pound patty is cooked top-to-bottom over an open flame in Carl’s Jr.’s unique char broiler, packing its delicious flavour right into the burger.

“After the wild success of the Beyond Famous Star in our U.S. Carl’s Jr. locations and hearing consumer feedback and demand for a plant-based option at our Canada locations, we knew it was the perfect time to add the Beyond Famous Star to our menu...

Church's Chicken Welcomes Back Fall with New and Improved Menu Item 

Just in time for the on-the-go, full schedule, back-to-school season, Church's Chicken's has brought back a new version of one of its most popular hand-held boneless chicken innovations – chicken MegaBites. Church's restaurants nationwide have debuted a brand-new, sweet n' spicy flavor twist with Church's NEW Flamin' Honey MegaBites, starting at just $3.

The secret behind the crave-worthy new flavor is all in the hand-crafted preparation that takes place in every Church's restaurant, every single day. Flamin' Honey MegaBites are all white meat chicken bites, hand battered and breaded, cooked to a golden crisp, and tossed in a proprietary sweet 'n spicy seasoning, made with Church's signature honey. The innovative technique creates...

KFC Sold Out of Its Beyond Fried Chicken Nuggets and Wings 

Yesterday, Kentucky Fried Chicken became the first national U.S. quick service restaurant to introduce plant-based chicken, through a partnership with Beyond Meat. The new plant-based Beyond Fried Chicken offers the fried chicken flavor KFC delivers as an option for those searching for alternative protein options on-the-go. Consumers in Atlanta, Georgia were the first to have the opportunity to try KFC's Beyond Fried Chicken as part of an exclusive one restaurant test. Those that wanted to be among the first to try the new plant-based chicken were invited to stop by the Cobb Parkway restaurant for a complimentary sample with the purchase of any KFC menu item.

Beyond Fried Chicken was available in nuggets with a choice of dipping sauce, or boneless wings. KFC tweeted that the plant-based chicken had sold out, with some reports indicating that the restaurant ran out of the product in...

Papa John's Appoints Proven, Transformational Leader Rob Lynch as President and CEO 

Papa John's International, Inc. today announced the appointment of Rob Lynch as President and Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. Previously, Mr. Lynch was President of Arby’s, the second-largest sandwich restaurant brand in the world with more than 3,400 restaurants across eight countries, where he led the brand’s dramatic turn-around to strong growth and profitability.

Jeff Smith, Chairman of the Papa John’s Board of Directors, said, “I am thrilled to welcome Rob to Papa John’s at this pivotal moment in the company’s history. His proven record transforming organizations and realizing the growth potential of differentiated brands is ideally suited for Papa John’s as the company sets forth on its next chapter. I would also like to thank Steve Ritchie for his steady leadership as CEO over the past year and a half. Papa John’s is stronger today because of...