Domino's to Open New Workspace Dedicated to Collaborative Innovation

Domino's Pizza, the largest pizza company in the world based on global retail sales, has spent years focused on cutting-edge technology created and built largely by teams at its World Resource Center in Ann Arbor. Those cross-functional teams now have a new space called Domino's Innovation Garage where they can collaborate on, create and test new ideas to take the brand to the next level. Domino's Innovation Garage, located at Domino's Farms in Ann Arbor, will celebrate its grand opening on Wednesday, Aug. 21.

"Domino's Innovation Garage is focused on accelerating Domino's spirit of creativity and collaboration," said Kelly Garcia, Domino's chief technology officer. "As a pizza company with a focus on technology, we want our team members to have a workspace that encourages experimentation and...

Dunkin’ Launches New Burrito Bowls

With autumn on the way, Dunkin’ is giving guests new innovative menu choices and returning fall favorites – perfect for powering through the change in season. Following the success of Dunkin’ Bowls, first available for a limited time earlier this year, Dunkin’ today launched new Burrito Bowls, served in two varieties full of delicious flavors, vegetables and protein for exciting new options for eating on-the-run. Dunkin’ is also delighting fans today by officially welcoming back its highly anticipated fall menu featuring all things pumpkin led by Pumpkin Flavored Coffees, new Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Signature Latte, baked goods, and more.

Introducing New Burrito Bowls

Available at participating Dunkin’ restaurants nationwide for a limited time, Dunkin’ is offering guests the choice of two new Burrito Bowls to pair with their favorite Dunkin’ beverages...

Taco Del Mar Goes “Beyond Meat” with New Taco Made with Plant-Based Protein

Taco Del Mar is introducing plant-based protein to its current vegetarian and vegan menu with its new Beyond Meat Taco. Beginning August 20, the taco chain will be testing its new offering at 10 restaurant locations, spread between Seattle, WA and Vancouver, BC.

The Beyond Meat Taco features the popular plant-based Beyond Beef Feisty Crumbles mixed with medium chipotle salsa, diced onions and minced serrano peppers, topped with shredded cheddar and Monterey jack cheese, shredded lettuce, pico de gallo and jalapeños served on warm corn tortillas. The plant-based protein is also available...

Fast Food Ranked in Top 40% of All Industries in MBLM's Brand Intimacy Study

The fast food industry ranked sixth out of the 15 industries studied in MBLM's Brand Intimacy 2019 Study, which is the largest study of brands based on emotion. Brand Intimacy is defined as the emotional science that measures the bonds we form with the brands we use and love. Chick-fil-A rose to the #1 spot in fast food followed by Dunkin'. Starbucks dropped to third after ranking first for the previous two years. The top 10 for the industry was rounded out by: McDonald's, Taco Bell, Subway, Wendy's, Burger King, Chipotle and KFC.

Chick-Fil-A also ranked 10th in the overall industry. In addition to performing well in MBLM's study, the brand increased its revenue at a 15% annual rate from 2010 to 2018, while the industry as a whole only grew by 3.4%.1 In 2018, Chick-fil-A also reported more than $10 billion in revenue, its 51st consecutive year of sales growth.2 This correlates to the study findings, which revealed that...

Five Guys and Postmates Partner for National On-Demand Delivery

Postmates, the leader in enabling anyone to have nearly anything delivered on-demand, announced today that it has partnered with Five Guys to enable national on-demand delivery, including an integration with ItsaCheckmate. Five Guys and Postmates customers will now find Five Guys locations across the country integrated into the Postmates feed, making it simple to find your favorite burgers and fries.

"We are thrilled to launch our integrated partnership with Five Guys for on-demand delivery," said Dan Mosher, SVP, Merchant Lead, Postmates. "Five Guys is an incredible family-run business that has a dedicated following and is extremely popular on the Postmates platform."

The Postmates Data and Analytics team dug into the data to uncover these Five Guys Delivery Facts...

Applebee’s Nationwide Delivery Has Arrived

Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill + Bar just made dining at home or on-the-go easier, more convenient and more flavorful with Applebee’s Delivery℠ available at participating restaurants nationwide. Now, wherever you are, you can order online at Applebees.com or through the mobile app and Applebee’s Delivery, powered by DoorDash, will have your favorite mouthwatering Boneless Chicken Wings and Loaded Shrimp Fajitas delivered to your door hot and fresh. For those meals when you’re too tired to cook or just don’t want to pack the family in the car, Applebee’s Delivery has your back.

Applebee’s is celebrating the news in two big ways. First, hungry fans can take advantage of free delivery now through Sunday, September 1 when ordering Applebee’s Delivery. And to commemorate Applebee’s new partnership with NBC Sports’ Football Night in America, free delivery will continue...

Domino's Launches National E-Bike Program for Pedal-Powered Delivery

Domino's Pizza, the largest pizza company in the world based on global retail sales, knows a thing or two about pizza delivery, including the fact that cars aren't always the most efficient way to get hot, delicious pizzas to hungry customers. A bike is often a better solution to traffic congestion and parking challenges. Domino's stores across the nation will soon have the option to use custom e-bikes for pizza delivery through a partnership with Rad Power® Bikes – North America's largest e-bike brand.

"Domino's tested e-bikes in a number of corporate-owned stores across Houston, Miami and New York earlier this year, and those stores saw improvements in overall delivery and service," said Tom Curtis, Domino's executive vice president of corporate operations. "They also experienced labor benefits, as the stores were able to hire from a wider pool of candidates, including those who...

Nathan's Famous, Inc. Reports First Quarter Results

Nathan's Famous, Inc. (“Nathan’s”, the “Company”,  today reported results for its first fiscal quarter ended June 30, 2019.

For the thirteen-week period ended June 30, 2019 (“first quarter fiscal 2020”):

• Revenues were $30,518,000, as compared to $30,168,000 during the thirteen weeks ended June 24, 2018;
• Income from operations was $9,448,000, as compared to $9,087,000 during the thirteen weeks ended June 24, 2018;
• Adjusted EBITDA1 , a non-GAAP financial measure, was $10,173,000 as compared to $9,595,000 for the thirteen weeks ended...

The Wendy's Company Reports Second Quarter 2019 Results

The Wendy's Company (Nasdaq: WEN) today reported unaudited results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2019.

"We delivered another quarter of strong earnings growth and are pleased with our continued progress to build an even stronger foundation for the Wendy's® brand," President and Chief Executive Officer Todd Penegor said. "We are executing on our plan to accelerate same-restaurant sales in North America and drive global restaurant expansion, fueled by a healthy restaurant economic model . Our relentless focus on bringing every element of The Wendy's Way to life by providing...

Subway and Beyond Meat Unveil Partnership and the Beyond Meatball Marinara 

Subway fans know they can customize their favorite sub to fit any lifestyle and now guests have even more options. Today, Subway unveils a new culinary innovation partnership with Beyond Meat to test exclusive plant-based protein options. Starting this September and for a limited time only, Subway restaurants will test the Beyond Meatball Marinara sub in 685 participating restaurants in Canada and the U.S.

The strategic collaboration with Beyond Meat reflects Subway's continued culinary innovation journey to offer guests even more best-in-class food experiences that they can only find at Subway restaurants. In the past month, Subway has announced exclusive partnerships to offer...

Papa John's Announces Second Quarter 2019 Results 

Papa John’s International, Inc. (NASDAQ: PZZA)today announced financial results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2019.

Highlights

• Second quarter 2019 earnings per diluted share of $0.15
• Excluding Special items, adjusted earnings per diluted share of $0.28 compared to $0.48 for the second quarter of 2018
• Second quarter system-wide North America comparable sales decrease of 5.7%
• Second quarter international comparable sales increase of...

Restaurant Brands International Reports Second Quarter 2019 Results

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

Jose Cil, Chief Executive Officer of Restaurant Brands International Inc. ("RBI") commented, "During the second quarter, we grew global system-wide sales nearly 8% and crossed two restaurant milestones with more than 26,000 restaurants globally, including more than 18,000 Burger King restaurants."

"We are excited by the tremendous opportunity for restaurant growth in front of us, most recently highlighted by new partnerships we announced for Popeyes in China and Spain, and Tim Hortons in Thailand," continued Cil. "We are working closely with our restaurant owners to deliver an enhanced guest experience including...

Dunkin' Brands Reports Second Quarter 2019 Results

Dunkin' Brands Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: DNKN), the parent company of Dunkin' and Baskin-Robbins (BR), today reported results for the second quarter ended June 29, 2019.

"Continuing the momentum established earlier in the year, our second quarter performance was highlighted by double-digit sales growth of espresso, our national value platforms, and terrific consumer reception to our latest menu innovation, our better-for-you Power Platform. We're attracting a new consumer with both espresso and our Power Platform and will continue to bring more on-trend innovation to fuel guests throughout the day," said David Hoffmann, Dunkin' Brands Chief Executive Officer and President of Dunkin' U.S. "Additionally, as a result of...

Domino's Appoints Lisa Price Executive Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer

Domino's Pizza, (NYSE: DPZ), the largest pizza company in the world based on global retail sales, today announced that Lisa V. Price will be joining the company as executive vice president, chief human resources officer, effective Aug. 26. Price will be a part of Domino's executive leadership team and will report directly to Chief Executive Officer Ritch Allison.

Price joins Domino's from Nordstrom, where she most recently served as senior vice president of human resources. From 2000-2015, Price had progressively more responsible roles in human resources at Starbucks Coffee Co., most recently as vice president of partner resources. With the exception of a year at Nordstrom in 2000, Price spent most of her career at Starbucks, joining the brand in 1994.

"Lisa brings extensive experience in both retail and restaurants to Domino's," said Allison. "She began her career in the stores at Starbucks and eventually worked her way up...

Burger King to Launch the Impossible Whopper Nationwide

Burger King restaurants announced today that it is bringing the plant-based Impossible Whopper sandwich nationwide this month. Starting on August 8, guests across the nation will be able to visit their local BK restaurant, or order for delivery via the BK App and through DoorDash, to try the Impossible Whopper for a limited time only and decide for themselves if it delivers the same flame-grilled, juicy craveability of the famous Whopper sandwich.

The Impossible Whopper is 100% Whopper, 0% beef. It features a flame-grilled patty made from plants topped with freshly sliced tomatoes and onions, crisp lettuce, creamy mayonnaise, ketchup and zesty pickles on a toasted sesame seed bun.

“We are really excited to be able to offer our new Impossible Whopper to our guests across the country at an unbeatable value for a limited time,” said Chris Finazzo, President, North America, Burger King Corporation. “Since we first launched our market tests in St. Louis in April, and...

Taco Bell Releases Statement Regarding Reduction in Antibiotics Used for Beef 

Taco Bell recognizes consumers’ growing food supply concerns, including animal welfare and antibiotic resistance. Building upon its commitment to making its beef more sustainable from January 2019, Taco Bell has committed to reduce antibiotics important to human health in its U.S. and Canada beef supply chain by 25% by 2025. This new policy around its dominant menu protein, beef, will better protect human, animal and environmental health.

As part of this new policy, Taco Bell will also give preference to suppliers that are making measured reductions in their use of antibiotics important to human health, as defined by the World Health Organization, as well as suppliers that increase veterinary oversight when it is required to medically treat sick animals. Preference will also be given to...

Dunkin’ Brands Shares Progress Towards Sustainability Goals

Dunkin’ Brands Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: DNKN), the parent company of Dunkin’ and Baskin-Robbins, has published its 2017-18 Sustainability Report, providing a thorough overview of its sustainability progress and the ongoing commitment of its brands and its franchisees to create a positive impact for both customers and communities throughout the world.

Focusing on the key pillars of the company’s sustainability strategy – sustainable food, restaurants and communities – the report highlights Dunkin’ Brands’ recent efforts to serve both people and the planet responsibly by transitioning from foam packaging, offering...

Yum China Reports Second Quarter 2019 Results

Yum China Holdings, Inc. (the "Company" or "Yum China") (NYSE: YUMC) today reported unaudited results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2019. Reported GAAP results include Special Items, which are excluded from adjusted measures. Special Items are not allocated to any segment and therefore only impact reported GAAP results of Yum China. See "Reconciliation of Reported GAAP Results to Adjusted Measures" within this release.

Second Quarter Highlights

• Total revenues increased 3% year over year to $2.12 billion from $2.07 billion (10% year over year increase excluding foreign currency translation ("F/X")).
• Total system sales grew 10% year over year, with growth of 12% at KFC and 4% at Pizza Hut, excluding F/X.
• Same-store sales grew...

White Castle Partners with Uber Eats to Expand Delivery 

White Castle, the nation's first fast-food hamburger chain and home of The Original Slider®, today announced a new partnership with Uber Eats, offering online ordering and delivery to Cravers near more than 330 White Castle locations. Coinciding with the 15th anniversary of beloved film classic, Harold & Kumar Go To White Castle, White Castle and Uber Eats will be giving away up to 1 million Original Sliders – one 10 sack per customer (small order fee may apply on orders of less than $10) – to Cravers with their order through the Uber Eats app using promo code 1MILLIONSLIDERS beginning on July 30. The fast-food chain is also offering a new Harold & Kumar meal reflecting pricing from 2004 when the film was released. The meal is available to Uber Eats customers on July 30 and 31 and includes 30 Original Sliders, five small fries and four 21 oz. soft drinks for just $23.40.

Cravers can now order any of White Castle's coveted menu items, such as The Original Slider®, the plant-powered Impossible Slider, or even a Crave Case for those with the boldest of appetites, through the Uber Eats app. Beginning July 30, White Castle will be giving away...

Del Taco Restaurants Reports Fiscal Second Quarter 2019 Financial Results

Del Taco Restaurants, Inc. (“Del Taco” or the “Company”), (NASDAQ: TACO), the second largest Mexican-American quick service restaurant chain by units in the United States, today reported fiscal second quarter 2019 financial results for the 12-week period ending June 18, 2019. Del Taco also reaffirmed its previously announced guidance for fiscal year 2019.

Fiscal Second Quarter 2019 Highlights

• System-wide comparable restaurant sales increased 2.2%;
• Company-operated comparable restaurant sales increased 1.7%. Company-operated comparable restaurant sales were comprised of average check growth of 4.2%, including slight menu mix growth, partially offset by a transaction decline of 2.5%;
• Franchised comparable restaurant sales increased...

Quiznos Launches New Pit-Smoked Brisket Sandwich

Quiznos has announced a mouthwatering new addition to its menu, a Pit-Smoked Brisket sandwich, available now for a limited time only. The Pit-Smoked Brisket sandwich is loaded with savory meat that has been smoked for 13-hours, and is topped with cheddar, pickles, red onions and a sweet and smoky BBQ sauce before being toasted to perfection in signature Quiznos fashion.

“Simply put, this flavorful brisket sandwich is a perfect example of the classic menu staples we carefully craft with the freshest ingredients, finest quality meats and unique sauces that satisfy guests’ cravings,” says Sheila Zimmerman, Vice President of Marketing, REGO Restaurant Group, owner of Quiznos. “Like all our sandwiches, the Pit-Smoked Brisket is made with...

Starbucks Reports Q3 Fiscal 2019 Results

Starbucks Corporation (NASDAQ: SBUX) today reported financial results for its 13-week fiscal third quarter ended June 30, 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.

“Starbucks delivered strong operating performance in the third quarter, further demonstrating that our ‘Growth at Scale’ agenda is working,” says Kevin Johnson, president and ceo. “Our two targeted long-term growth markets, the U.S. and China, performed extremely well across a number of measures as a result of our focus on enhancing...

Yum! Brands Appoints Taco Bell Division and Pizza Hut Division Chief Executive Officers 

Yum! Brands, Inc. (NYSE: YUM) today announced that it has appointed Taco Bell Division and Pizza Hut Division Chief Executive Officers who each will assume global responsibility for driving their respective brand’s growth strategies, franchise operations and performance. With today’s announcement, each of the Company’s three global brand divisions will be led by a Chief Executive Officer.

Mark King, 60, former President of adidas Group North America, will join the Company as Taco Bell Division Chief Executive Officer, reporting to David Gibbs, President, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer, Yum! Brands. King brings to Taco Bell and Yum! Brands extensive retail experience and an excellent track record driving growth, innovation, brand relevance and culture. In addition, Artie Starrs, 42, President of Pizza Hut U.S., is being promoted to...

Tim Hortons to Offer JUST Egg in Canada 

Tim Hortons, which is owned by Restaurant Brands International, started offering alternative proteins earlier this year. The first plant-based item to be featured on the menu is Beyond Meat's alternative sausage for three breakfast sandwiches. The quick service restaurant recently began offering the Beyond Burger as well, the first burger to appear on the menu. Now, plant-based company JUST Egg has received its first fast-food deal with Tim Hortons.

Andrew Noyes, a spokesman for JUST, stated that "Canada is one of the most requested markets for JUST and we're excited to be able to offer our product at select Tim Hortons locations for this market test." Tim Hortons reported that the restaurant will...

Chipotle Announces Second Quarter 2019 Results

Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE: CMG) today reported financial results for its second quarter ended June 30, 2019.

Second quarter highlights, year over year:

• Revenue increased 13.2% to $1.4 billion
• Comparable restaurant sales increased 10.0%, net of 40 bps from loyalty deferral, and included nearly 7% of comparable restaurant transaction growth
• Digital sales grew 99.1% and accounted for 18.2% of sales for the quarter
• Restaurant level operating margin was 20.9%, an increase from 19.7%
• Diluted earnings per share was $3.22, net of a $0.77 after-tax impact from expenses related to restaurant asset impairment, corporate restructuring, and certain other costs, a 91.7% increase from $1.68. Adjusted diluted earnings per share excluding...

Starbucks Delivery to be Available Throughout the US in Early 2020

Today, Starbucks Coffee Company (NASDAQ: SBUX) announced plans to make Starbucks® Delivers available throughout the U.S. in early 2020 through an agreement with Uber Eats as the preferred delivery provider of Starbucks® items. The intention to expand follows an 11-market roll-out which demonstrated successful operational integration and received positive customer response to an effortless high-quality experience consistent with the Starbucks brand.

“We are driven to create new and unique digital experiences that are meaningful, valuable and convenient for our customers,” said Roz Brewer, group president and chief operating officer for Starbucks. “Partnering with Uber Eats helps us take another step towards...

Dunkin' to Offer Beyond Meat Products in Manhattan 

The Big Apple is where Dunkin' and Beyond Meat are bringing their biggest breakfast news of the year, presenting a new plant-based menu option for Dunkin' guests in Manhattan. Dunkin' today announced a new partnership with Beyond Meat, one of the fastest growing U.S. food companies offering a portfolio of revolutionary plant-based meats, to introduce the Beyond Sausage Breakfast Sandwich, available now at participating Dunkin' restaurants in Manhattan with plans for a future national rollout. With the launch, Dunkin' is the first U.S. restaurant brand to Go Beyond™ traditional on-the-go breakfast choices by serving Beyond Breakfast Sausage.

The Beyond Sausage Breakfast Sandwich offers the delicious taste and texture millions of Dunkin' breakfast sandwich customers enjoy and expect with a juicy, savory breakfast sausage patty – but made with 100% plant-based ingredients and...

Popeyes Announces Agreement to Open More than 1,500 Restaurants in China

Today, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen Inc. (Popeyes) announced an exciting new agreement to develop and open more than 1,500 Popeyes restaurants in the People's Republic of China over the next 10 years.

"We're very excited to grow the Popeyes brand in the Chinese market," said Josh Kobza, Chief Operating Officer of Restaurant Brands International (RBI), parent company of Popeyes. "We look forward to bringing our great tasting chicken, biscuits, sides and beautiful new restaurants to our guests in China with our partner...

McDonald’s Adds DoorDash as U.S. Delivery Partner

Today, McDonald’s USA and DoorDash announced a new partnership to expand the availability and accessibility of McDelivery beyond its current offering, launching first in the Houston, Texas area across more than 200 restaurants beginning July 29th.

“In a few short years, McDelivery, has become an important part of our growth and our customer-centric strategy,” said Chris Kempczinski, President of McDonald’s USA. “Building on the success of McDelivery in the US, we’re excited to make McDelivery accessible to customers on DoorDash, which is available in all 50 states and reaches...

Tim Hortons Expands Beyond Meat Offerings 

After the successful launch of three new Beyond Meat® Breakfast Sandwiches last month, Tim Hortons is expanding plant‑based offerings to the lunch and dinner menu with two new, delicious Beyond Burgers. This marks the first time Tim Hortons has been able to include a burger on the menu because the burger patty is prepared in the same way as the Beyond Sausage™ patty for the new breakfast sandwiches.

The 100% plant‑based burger patty was developed by Beyond Meat to taste like a beef burger. The result is a truly satisfying burger experience that is now available at the nearly 4,000 Tim Hortons restaurants nationwide.

There are two Beyond Burgers for guests to enjoy from coast to coast...

Quick Service Burger Buyers Mix it Up Between Plant-Based and Beef

Plant-based burgers are increasingly finding their way on to quick service restaurants (QSRs) menu boards and customers are responding. There were 228 million servings of plant-based burgers ordered at QSRs in the year ending May, up 10 percent from a year ago, reports The NPD Group. With all of the buzz surrounding the popularity of plant-based burgers some are wondering if veggie burgers are closing in on beef burgers or if the growth of plant-based burgers corresponds to an increase in vegetarianism or veganism. Here are some answers.

Beef burgers are still by far the most popular burger ordered at QSRs. There were 6.4 billion beef burgers ordered at QSRs in the year ending May 2019, and although growth is flat compared to year ago, beef burgers are still...

Celebrate the Pizza Days of Summer with Domino's® 50 Percent Off Deal

The pizza days of summer are here and there's only one way to celebrate – with half off pizza! Domino's Pizza (NYSE: DPZ), the largest pizza company in the world based on global retail sales, is offering 50 percent off all menu-priced pizzas ordered online July 15-21.

"Summer is officially here, which means plenty of sun and fun, and pizza, of course!" said Jenny Fouracre, Domino's spokeswoman. "There's no better way to enjoy the nice weather than by grabbing a half-price pizza and savoring it..."

Wendy's Makes Summer Sizzle With Launch Of Baconfest

As the home of the #1 selling bacon cheeseburger*, and quite frankly, the Boss of Bacon, Wendy's is launching an epic bacon celebration – Baconfest. Why? Because Wendy's bacon is always worth celebrating and honestly, doesn't need a reason.

Starting today, Wendy's is kicking off Baconfest exclusively with DoorDash, offering its bacon-loving fanatics a free Jr. Bacon Cheeseburger and $0 delivery fee with a minimum of $10 Wendy's purchase for a limited time using code BACONFEST.** Free bacon and $0 delivery fee? Yes, please...

Burger King Restaurants Introduces the $1 Crispy Taco

Taco-bout a surprise. Starting today, BURGER KING® restaurants are introducing a $1 Crispy Taco nationwide*. The Crispy Taco features a crispy, crunchy tortilla filled with seasoned beef, shredded cheddar cheese and crisp lettuce, all topped with just the right amount of our savory taco sauce. Perfect as a snack on the go, the Crispy Taco can also be added to any meal order for just $1.

In a new commercial, the BURGER KING® King travels to Austin, TX, a city known by some as the...

Papa John’s Appoints Industry Veteran Jim Norberg as SVP and Chief of Restaurant Operations 

Papa John's International, Inc. (NASDAQ: PZZA) today announced the appointment of Jim Norberg as its Chief Restaurant Operations Officer. Mr. Norberg will oversee the operations of Papa John’s corporate and franchise restaurants in North America. 

Norberg, a Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) industry veteran, spent more than 30 years of his career at McDonald’s. His most recent role was Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, where he managed operations for 14,000 U.S. restaurants.

During his time at McDonald’s, Norberg’s leadership was instrumental in unifying company...

KFC Celebrates National Fried Chicken Day with Free Grubhub Delivery July 4-7

Kentucky Fried Chicken® has announced free delivery through delivery partner, Grubhub, to celebrate one of our favorite days of the year, National Fried Chicken Day (July 6). And, because the Colonel thinks every occasion is a good time for a bucket of Original Recipe®, the fried chicken experts are celebrating with free delivery all weekend long (July 4-7) – just in time for the 4th of July holiday weekend.

Heading to a family picnic, summer BBQ or pool party? Give the grill a rest and let the Colonel take the stress out of holiday cooking with a bucket of Original Recipe®, KFC’s world-famous secret blend of 11 herbs & spices. Since its origination in 1940, the Colonel’s secret recipe has been often imitated, but never duplicated, and...

Papa John’s Announces Investments into Marketing and Support for U.S. Franchise System

Papa John’s International, Inc. (NASDAQ: PZZA) today announced increased investment in marketing and brand initiatives as well as an agreement to provide scheduled financial assistance for domestic franchisees ending in 2020. This program has the support of the Company’s elected Franchise Advisory Council (FAC). This announcement enhances the partnership between the Company and franchisees by delivering needed investment in the brand and providing franchisees with certainty on the schedule of remaining royalty relief, as outlined in the agreement.

“The strength of our brand and of our franchisees are both critical to Papa John’s long-term success. We’re pleased to announce that Papa John’s will make a significant investment in...

Hardee’s Introduces Latest Burger Innovation

Hardee’s® has announced the launch of one of its best-tested menu items – the new Garlic Bread Thickburger® – coming to stores June 19, 2019. The brand will also debut Cheesy Garlic Fries, the perfect complement to any Hardee’s meal.

The Garlic Bread Thickburger includes a 1/3 lb. 100% Black Angus beef patty, charbroiled over an open flame, topped with a buttery garlic herb spread, parmesan crisps and caramelized onions on Hardee’s buttery toasted sourdough bread.

“We’re thrilled to introduce our latest burger innovation, the Garlic Bread Thickburger, the perfect marriage of house-made toasty garlic bread and premium charbroiled Angus beef,” said Owen Klein, Vice President of Culinary Innovation at CKE Restaurants. “This new flavor combination tested far beyond our expectations, and we know consumers everywhere will be instant fans...

Del Taco Introduces New Signature Burritos Crafted with Beyond Meat Plant-Based Protein

Lake Forest, CA (Restaurant News Release) Del Taco Restaurants, Inc. (NASDAQ: TACO), the nation’s second leading Mexican quick service restaurant,* today announced that after one of the most successful product launches in its history, the company is now expanding its partnership with Beyond Meat (NASDAQ: BYND) to offer the brand’s 100 percent plant-based protein option in two new signature protein-packed burritos, the Beyond 8 Layer Burrito and the Epic Beyond Cali Burrito, at its more than 580 locations across the country.

With the nationwide launch of its Beyond Tacos in April, Del Taco became the first national Mexican fast food chain to add a 100 percent plant-based protein option to its menu. Since then, Del Taco has sold nearly two million Beyond Tacos and Beyond Avocado Tacos, with close to 100,000 hand-sliced avocados used for the Beyond Avocado Taco alone...

Dunkin' Begins Nationwide Delivery Rollout through Grubhub

More of America will now run on Dunkin' without ever having to leave their home or office. Dunkin' today announced that it is partnering with Grubhub (NYSE: GRUB), the nation's leading online and mobile food-ordering and delivery marketplace, to begin the rollout of its new Dunkin' Delivers service. As the first step in this launch, today more than 400 Dunkin' restaurants throughout New York City's five boroughs will now offer delivery through Seamless, Grubhub's New York brand. Following the initial launch, Dunkin' and Grubhub will look to expand the Dunkin' Delivers service to restaurants throughout other markets in the coming months, including in Boston, Chicago and Philadelphia.

Using Seamless or Grubhub, people who live and work in New York City can enjoy their favorite Dunkin' coffees, espresso drinks, Cold Brew and frozen beverages – as well as donuts, breakfast sandwiches, bagels and more – delivered directly to them, wherever they are throughout the day. New Yorkers looking for a convenient Dunkin' delivery experience can simply open the Seamless or Grubhub mobile app or website, choose their favorites and...

Domino's and Nuro Partner to Bring Autonomous Pizza Delivery to Houston

Domino's Pizza (NYSE: DPZ), the largest pizza company in the world based on global retail sales, and Nuro, the robotics company transforming local commerce, are partnering on autonomous pizza delivery using the custom unmanned vehicle known as the R2 later this year. The global leader in pizza delivery will use Nuro's unmanned fleet to serve select Houston Domino's customers who place orders online. This partnership will expand Nuro's autonomous delivery operations, which have safely and successfully been running in the Houston metro area since March 2019.

"We are always looking for new ways to innovate and evolve the delivery experience for our customers," said Kevin Vasconi, Domino's executive vice president and chief information officer. "Nuro's vehicles are specially designed to optimize the food delivery experience, which makes them a valuable partner in our autonomous vehicle journey. The opportunity to bring...

Tim Hortons Announces Agreement to Launch in Thailand

Tim Hortons announced today that it has entered into an exclusive master franchise and development agreement to develop the Tim Hortons brand in Thailand with WeEat Company, part of the Wattanavekin family group of companies.

"We are very excited to grow the Tims brand in Thailand as part of our broader global growth strategy," said Tim Hortons President Alex Macedo. "Thailand has a thriving coffee market and our partner has a deep understanding of the Thai market, which we believe will position us well for success in the country."

Tim Hortons believes that it can replicate in Thailand its recent successes in other international markets by featuring a strong core hot and cold beverage platform, a localized food menu and prominent Canadian branding in the restaurant design to celebrate the brand's Canadian heritage...

Popeyes Announces Agreement to Launch the Brand in Spain

Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen Inc. ("Popeyes") today announced an exciting new agreement to open Popeyes restaurants in Spain with the aim of becoming the market leader.

"We have an ambitious long-term goal for RBI of reaching 40,000 restaurants over the next 8 to 10 years. Today, we're excited to share big news from Europe where we have announced ambitious plans for one of our iconic brands – Popeyes – in Spain," said Josh Kobza, Chief Operating Officer of Restaurant Brands International Inc. ("RBI"), parent company of Popeyes. "We believe we have the best tasting chicken, biscuits and side items and that Popeyes can become Spain's number one choice for chicken as we develop...

McDonald's Workers Walk Out

Hundreds of workers at McDonald's Corp. restaurants walked off the job on Thursday to protest what they described as low pay, unsafe workplaces and sexual harassment.

The walkouts prompted operators to close 10 restaurants in St. Louis, and workers picketed outside McDonald's in Des Moines and Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The day's events are among the most visible disruptions to the chain's operations in the years since unions have sought to organize McDonald's workers.

Several hundred workers from restaurants in 13 cities left their posts during the breakfast and lunch rushes...

Taco Bell Embarks On Next Chapter of Global Growth

Taco Bell, the world's largest Mexican-inspired restaurant chain, is continuing its major global expansion with the signing of its largest master franchise agreement in India, as well as unveiling new international markets for the brand.

Technomic: Canadians’ Routines and Habits Present Challenges for Emerging Bakery and Coffee Cafes

In the 2019 Canadian Bakery & Coffee Cafe Consumer Trend Report, Technomic found that many coffee cafe customers stick to the same restaurant brand and, oftentimes, the same cafe location, due to their coffee preferences and demands for convenience. On the other hand, bakery-cafe customers are open to mixing up the brands they visit, challenging these operators to build up loyal customer bases.

“For emerging coffee cafes, the challenge is in getting consumers to break from their routines and try something new,” explains Charles Winship, manager of consumer insights at Technomic. “While specials and limited-time offers can help draw in new visitors, whether these guests habitually return will ultimately come down to value, convenience and, in many cases, coffee.”

Key takeaways from the report include...

Restaurant Food Costs: What does ASF Mean for Protein Prices in the US?

Rabobank expects food costs in the US to increase in the second half of the year, as protein prices are impacted by stronger export demand following the African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreak. Pork and chicken prices will be the most impacted. Beef will be the last to see increases materialize, but QSR patty prices are expected to be the most vulnerable component. If a trade agreement with China were to be brokered, price increases would be faster and steeper.

Restaurants Should Expect Rising Protein Prices

For the past two years, restaurants have been favored by a relatively benign food cost environment, which helped compensate for rising costs in other areas (labor, real estate). We expect this situation to change (for proteins) towards the second half of the year and...

Little Caesars And Impossible Foods Team Up For Impossible Supreme Pizza

Little Caesars, the pizza chain celebrated for meat-centric products including a pizza wrapped in three feet of bacon, has teamed up with Impossible Foods to offer a plant-based sausage on the new Impossible™ Supreme pizza.

The Impossible Supreme is a large pizza topped with sauce made from fresh-packed, vine-ripened California crushed tomatoes, covered with mozzarella and Muenster cheese, and loaded with a generous portion of seasoned Impossible™ Sausage made from plants, caramelized onions, mushrooms and green peppers.

Impossible Supreme Pizza is now available exclusively in three Little Caesars test markets in Florida, New Mexico and Washington state...

Nathan’s Famous Names James Walker Senior Vice President, Restaurants

Nathan’s Famous announced today that it has hired James Walker, CFE, as the company’s Senior Vice President, Restaurants. Walker comes to Nathan’s Famous from Subway where he was Vice President, North America, overseeing all franchised restaurants in the U.S. and Canada.

“We are excited to have James on board to lead our all-important restaurant division,” said Eric Gatoff, CEO of Nathan’s Famous. “While our success over the last decade has largely come from our product licensing and foodservice businesses, Nathan’s started as a restaurant company in 1916. James’ skill set includes extensive experience in restaurant operations, franchising and product development. Adding someone as accomplished and innovative as James demonstrates our continued commitment to...

The Wendy's Company Reports First Quarter 2019 Results

The Wendy's Company (Nasdaq: WEN) today reported unaudited results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2019.

"We delivered strong earnings growth in the first quarter and are proud of our continued progress to build an even stronger foundation for the Wendy's brand," President and Chief Executive Officer Todd Penegor said. "We are executing on our plan to accelerate same-restaurant sales in North America and drive global restaurant expansion, fueled by a healthy restaurant economic model. Our relentless focus on bringing every element of The Wendy's Way to life by providing food our customers love, friendly service, value, and an inviting atmosphere will continue to drive growth in the future...

Del Taco Restaurants Reports Fiscal First Quarter 2019 Financial Results

Del Taco Restaurants, Inc., (NASDAQ: TACO), the second largest Mexican-American quick service restaurant chain by units in the United States, today reported fiscal first quarter 2019 financial results for the 12-week period ending March 26, 2019. Del Taco also reaffirmed its previously announced guidance for fiscal year 2019.

Fiscal First Quarter 2019 Highlights

• System-wide comparable restaurant sales decreased 0.1%;
• Company-operated comparable restaurant sales decreased 0.6%. Company-operated comparable restaurant sales were comprised of average check growth of 4.9%, including nearly 1% of menu mix growth, offset by a transaction decline of 5.5%;
• Franchised comparable restaurant sales grew...

Shake Shack Announces First Quarter 2019 Financial Results

Shake Shack Inc. (“Shake Shack” or the “Company”) (NYSE: SHAK) today reported its financial results for the first quarter ended March 27, 2019, a period that included 13 weeks.

Financial Highlights for the First Quarter 2019 compared to the First Quarter 2018:

• Total revenue increased 33.8% to $132.6 million.
• Shack sales increased 33.8% to $128.6 million.
• Same-Shack sales increased 3.6%.
• Shack system-wide sales increased 33.5% to $195.2 million.
• Operating income was $5.2 million, or 3.9% of total revenue, which included the impact of costs associated with Project Concrete and other one-time items totaling $0.5 million, resulting in a decrease of 20.8%.
• Shack-level operating profit...

Dunkin' Brands Reports First Quarter 2019 Results

Dunkin' Brands Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: DNKN), the parent company of Dunkin' and Baskin-Robbins (BR), today reported results for the first quarter ended March 30, 2019.

"While we are still in the early innings of the implementation of our Blueprint for Growth, Dunkin' U.S. delivered a strong first quarter, including 5.5 percent systemwide sales growth and a 2.4 percent increase in comparable store sales, which was the largest quarterly comparable store sales increase in four years. This solid performance, across both morning and afternoon, was driven by consistent, compelling national value promotions and continued beverage sales momentum. In particular, the relaunch of our highly successful...

Sonic Drive-In Says Aloha with New King's Hawaiian Clubs

SONIC® Drive-In adds a taste of Hawaii to its menu this month with the all-new KING’S HAWAIIAN® Clubs. Complete with island flair, SONIC transforms its Classic Crispy Chicken Sandwich and SONIC Burger to create the irresistible KING’S HAWAIIAN Chicken Club and KING’S HAWAIIAN Burger Club.

Guests can choose between the KING’S HAWAIIAN Chicken Club made with 100-percent all white meat crispy chicken or the KING’S HAWAIIAN Burger Club made with a savory 100-percent pure beef patty, both piled high with fresh lettuce, ripe tomato, crunchy bacon, and natural Swiss cheese layered on the iconic KING’S HAWAIIAN Bun. Starting at just...

Wendy's Releases New Chicken Lineup 

Wendy's recently released the Made to Crave menu – a sandwich line dedicated to unlocking a whole new world of flavors. Now, Wendy's Made to Crave menu is bringing you a new chicken lineup guaranteed to satisfy those craveable taste buds. Introducing three new chicken sandwiches to Wendy's chicken menu: Avocado BLT, S'Awesome Bacon Chicken and Barbecue Chicken.

Made to Crave Chicken sandwiches takes Wendy's core menu that much further, driving more flavor variety to your go-to chicken sandwiches while never sacrificing quality. The best part? The Made to Crave Chicken lineup features each of Wendy's different fillets. We're talking the lightly breaded and specially seasoned homestyle, grilled and for when you want to raise the temperature a bit – spicy. Each sandwich is made with...

McDonald's Reports First Quarter 2019 Results

McDonald's Corporation today announced results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2019.

"We started the year strong with our 15th consecutive quarter of positive global comparable sales, reflecting continued broad-based momentum across each of our global segments," said McDonald's President and Chief Executive Officer Steve Easterbrook. "We remain focused on running better restaurants and elevating the experience for our customers by providing convenience on their terms through delivery, Experience of the Future, and our evolving digital channels."

First quarter highlights...

Dunkin' Introduces Two New Breakfast Bowls 

In our busy, on-the-go lives, it's not always easy to make better decisions while eating on the run. That's why Dunkin' is continuing to introduce new, delicious menu items to help guests power through the day, including its new Dunkin' Bowls which are now available at participating locations nationwide for a limited time. The new lineup includes an Egg White Bowl that provides guests another easy way to be a little better and joins other better-for-you Dunkin' products like the popular Power Breakfast Sandwich.

Available today at participating Dunkin' restaurants nationwide, guests can choose from two new Dunkin' Bowls to pair with their favorite Dunkin' beverages...

Domino’s Delivers Real-Time Pizza Location

Domino’s Pizza is creating transparency in the store-to-consumer supply chain.

The pizza chain is piloting a test of GPS-enabled delivery driver tracking in 27 corporate stores in Phoenix, Arizona. Customers who order from one of these stores can track the location of their order and driver via a map from the order confirmation page on the Domino’s site or the Domino's app.

Customers receive an estimated delivery time and can opt into SMS text notifications that let them know when their order is about two minutes away. The tracking feature also provides optional navigation and one-touch customer callback capabilities to delivery drivers. In addition, store managers have a driver-tracking screen that will show where all of their drivers are out on the road...

Starbucks Reports Q2 Fiscal 2019 Results

Starbucks Corporation (NASDAQ: SBUX) today reported financial results for its 13-week fiscal second quarter ended March 31, 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.

“Starbucks delivered another quarter of solid operating results, demonstrating that our ‘Growth at Scale’ agenda is working,” said Kevin Johnson, president and ceo. “We are especially pleased with our comparable store sales growth in our two lead markets, the U.S. and China, where we are also continuing to drive strong new store development with industry-leading returns. With solid first-half financial results, we are on track to deliver on our full-year commitments...

Church's Chicken Offers New Spicy Tenders LTO

Fried chicken with a spicy kick that's not only hot, but flavorful too, is a Church's Chicken® tradition that's been going strong for 66 years and counting. It started with guests squeezing the juice of a jalapeño pepper over the brand's hand-battered fried chicken, but it hasn't stopped there. Today, Church's menu still prominently features jalapeño peppers, but also includes the brand's one-of-a-kind Spicy Chicken recipe made from a signature blend of red pepper, cracked black pepper, chipotle, and habanero peppers, in addition to jalapeño peppers. The bold, Texas-inspired heat and savory flavor is a big fan favorite with guests, but what many don't know is that there's a Church's menu "secret" for...

Subway Restaurants Open the Club Doors to its New Collection

While a club sandwich traditionally features bacon, turkey and lettuce, Subway® Restaurants is once again proving its new innovative approach to the classic sandwich is far from traditional. The NEW! Club Collection turns the rules upside down by modernizing these iconic sandwiches with a kick of spicy jalapeños, delicious steak and creamy guacamole.

These crave-worthy, chef-inspired recipes for the Club sandwiches are...

Little Caesars Brings Back Pizza Creation Especially for Meat Lovers

Little Caesars, the home of HOT-N-READY® pizza, is bringing back its mouthwatering meat masterpiece, the 5 Meat Feast. This pizza is loaded with pepperoni, bacon, sausage, beef and ham* for only $9 plus applicable tax at participating U.S. locations. Starting April 25, the 5 Meat Feast is available for a limited time.

"Our research shows that people want more meat, so we designed this pizza to satisfy America's cravings," said Ed Gleich, Senior Vice President of Global Marketing at Little Caesars. "And, at $9, the pizza stays true to our brand's commitment to value."

The 5 Meat Feast is available alongside other Little Caesars options including the $5 HOT-N-READY classic pizza and EXTRAMOSTBESTEST® pizzas. Customers can walk in and have a hot, fresh 5 Meat Feast ready and waiting for them between...

Chipotle Announces First Quarter 2019 Results

Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE: CMG) today reported financial results for its first quarter ended March 31, 2019.

First quarter highlights, year over year:

• Revenue increased 13.9% to $1.3 billion
• Comparable restaurant sales increased 9.9%, net of 30 bps from loyalty deferral, and included 5.8% of comparable restaurant transaction growth and 2% in mix contribution
• Digital sales grew 100.7% and accounted for 15.7% of sales for the quarter
• Restaurant level operating margin was 21.0%, an increase from...

Papa John's International Opens Its 2000th Restaurant Outside North America

Papa John's International, Inc. (NASDAQ: PZZA) continues to expand its global presence, recently opening its 2000th restaurant outside North America. The milestone restaurant opened in Moscow, Russia. Russia, with more than 200 restaurants, is one of the company’s fastest growing markets.

Papa John’s international business has been growing rapidly since the company took its pizza to the world by opening a restaurant in Mexico City in 1998. A decade later, Papa John’s marked another milestone with the company’s 500th international restaurant opening in Turkey in 2008, followed by the celebration of the 1000th restaurant opening in 2013.

Just over five years later, with a concerted focus on ramping up global development, the number of international restaurants has...

Domino's Pizza Announces First Quarter 2019 Financial Results

Domino's Pizza, Inc. (NYSE: DPZ), the largest pizza company in the world based on global retail sales, announced results for the first quarter, comprised of healthy growth in global retail sales and earnings per share. Global retail sales increased 4.6% in the first quarter, or 8.5% without the negative impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates. U.S. same store sales grew 3.9% during the quarter versus the year-ago period, 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 1.8% during the quarter. The first quarter marked the 101st consecutive quarter of international same store sales growth and the 32nd consecutive quarter of U.S. same store sales growth. The Company had first quarter global net store growth of 200 stores, comprised of...

White Castle Announces New Limited Time Menu 

White Castle, America's first fast-food hamburger chain, today announced the addition of its new BBQ bash lineup featuring the BBQ Brisket Slider, 99¢ BBQ Original Slider, and, for the first time since White Castle became the first fast-food chain to offer the Impossible™ Slider, a spin on the iconic slider made from plants – the BBQ Impossible Slider. Joining the new BBQ lineup are White Castle's fan-favorite Fried Pickles and a line of Summer Smoothies to keep Cravers cool. The new menu items are available at most White Castle restaurants for a limited time or while supplies last.

White Castle's new BBQ bash lineup includes the BBQ Brisket Slider, with smoked and sliced brisket, the BBQ Impossible Slider, featuring the tastier, beefier Impossible patty, and ...

Dunkin’ Pilots Multi-Tender Participation for its DD Perks Rewards Program

Choice and convenience – two of the values that have helped Dunkin’ earn the loyalty and passion of its on-the-go guests – are now distinguishing the brand’s rewards program and benefiting its members in even more powerful ways. Today the brand announced a pilot of multi-tender participation in its DD Perks® Rewards Program at more than 1,000 locations across the country, giving guests the opportunity for the first time to earn DD Perks points regardless of how they pay.

Whereas previously DD Perks members could only earn points towards free beverages by paying via an enrolled Dunkin’ gift card, at the pilot locations they can now earn points whether they pay by cash, credit, debit or a Dunkin’ gift card. Guests at the participating locations can accumulate points with ...

Popeyes Launches On-Demand Delivery With Postmates

Postmates and POPEYES® announced today that they've partnered to bring their delicious fried chicken direct to your door. With more than 2,000 POPEYES locations in the US, customers across the country can have their favorite Cajun dishes delivered. Postmates knows that POPEYES wouldn't be the same without that hot, flakey biscuit, so they are giving customers one for free when they order through the platform. To further celebrate the new partnership, Postmates is waiving the delivery fee on POPEYES orders with the promo code BISCUITS.

"Over the years we've made hundreds of thousands of deliveries from POPEYES, so we are thrilled to officially partner and work closely with them to continue to ...

Panera Bread Takes On Breakfast to Eliminate Trade-Offs Between Morning Convenience And Quality

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day; yet mornings can be hectic, and the quickest option isn't always the best quality option. To usher in a new era of breakfast on the go, Panera is refreshing its offerings, focusing on new menu items and an elevated coffee platform to meet the untapped consumer demand for a convenient, yet high-quality, delicious breakfast.

Many of today's fast breakfast options include frozen, microwaved food items that lack flavor or nutritional value; and made-to-order foods can often come with a wait time that impacts the morning commute. Panera's 100% clean breakfast options ...

Tim Horton's Introduces Tims Rewards in the U.S. 

The number seven is about to become the new favorite number for Tim Hortons® guests. Not only was the number seven hockey legend Tim Horton’s retiring jersey number, but also starting today, Americans will be rewarded after every seventh visit with new Tims Rewards.

With the new rewards program, guests will be eligible for a free hot brewed coffee or hot tea (any size), or baked good (except for Timbits® and bagels) after every seventh visit*.

Tims Rewards is simple and easy to use ...

Sonic Brings the Bacon with the New BBLT

As the year goes on, 2019 is proving to be the year of the bacon battles. After McDonald's introduced the first nationwide bacon bash called "Bacon Hour" back in January, Wendy's created its own limited time offer to celebrate the American favorite. Wendy's offer included a free baconator and $0 delivery through DoorDash with a $10 purchase during a short time in Janury through February. Now, quick service restaurants like Sonic are creating their own take on consumer's love for bacon.

Sonic has added a twist to an iconic favorite to create the BBLT, a sandwich with so much bacon, there is ...

Little Caesars Hires Jeff Klein as New Senior Vice President of Global Marketing

Little Caesars is excited to announce that Jeff Klein will take on the role of Senior Vice President of Global Marketing at the nearly 60-year-old pizza company.

Klein has served nearly 20 years in progressive marketing leadership positions, most recently spending the last 2 years at PepsiCo as chief marketing officer for global foodservice. Prior to that Jeff spent 10 years at Frito-Lay North America in ...

Subway Announces Expansion of Global Food Innovation Partnership with Tastemade

Subway and Tastemade have announced an expansion of their first-of-its-kind global food innovation alliance. The world's largest restaurant chain and the modern media brand, made up of creators and food explorers united by their love and passion for great tasting food, are collaborating to create menu items designed to complement Subway's current offerings while inspiring new tastes that guests can't find anywhere else.

Subway and Tastemade first announced their innovative collaboration to deliver unique food offerings in North America and Latin America in August 2018. Since the inception of the partnership, hundreds of menu items have been developed using unique data and insights derived from the Tastemade audience, and ...

Bojangles’ Names Jackie Woodward Chief Marketing Officer

Bojangles’, Inc. today announced that brand strategist and marketing veteran Jackie Woodward has joined the company as its new Chief Marketing Officer, reporting directly to Jose Armario, Chief Executive Officer. Woodward will work alongside the brand’s respected long-time marketing chief Randy Poindexter over the next several months to ensure a seamless transition. The company recently announced Poindexter’s retirement after 28 years as the iconic brand’s top marketing executive.

Woodward comes to Bojangles’ with more than 30 years of marketing experience in domestic and global markets. In addition to recently serving as Global Chief Marketing Officer for North Carolina-based Krispy Kreme Doughnut Corporation, she also served as ...

Burger King Restaurants Test the Impossible Whopper 

Can a plant-based patty deliver all the flame-grilled, juicy craveability of the revered BURGER KING® restaurants WHOPPER® sandwich? We think so, but can you really believe anything you hear on April Fools’ Day? In a new video, BURGER KING® restaurants surprised its loyal guests by serving the Impossible™ WHOPPER® instead of the classic WHOPPER® -- and filmed their reactions. Watch the Impossible™ WHOPPER® film at www.YouTube.com/BurgerKing.

Starting today, 59 exclusive BURGER KING® restaurants in and around St. Louis will be testing the Impossible™ WHOPPER® -- a flame-grilled, plant-based patty topped with ...

Domino's Pizza Celebrates the Opening of Its 10,000th International Store

Domino's Pizza, (NYSE: DPZ), the largest pizza company in the world based on global retail sales, is celebrating the opening of the brand's 10,000th international store today. The store is located in the IBC Mall at 3008 Buxin Road in the Luohu District of Shenzhen, China.

"Not only are we excited to open the 200th Domino's location in mainland China, but we are thrilled that it marks the brand's 10,000th store outside of the U.S.," said Frank Krasovec, chairman of Dash Brands Ltd. – Domino's master franchisee in China. "We look forward to bringing our delicious pizzas, quality products and ...

Papa John’s Appoints Karlin Linhardt as Global Chief Marketing Officer

Papa John’s International, Inc. (NASDAQ: PZZA), one of the world’s largest pizza delivery companies, today announced the appointment of Karlin Linhardt as its Global Chief Marketing Officer. Mr. Linhardt is a veteran marketing leader with deep Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) category experience and C-suite executive roles at global Fortune-500 restaurant companies, consumer brands and top professional services firms, including Anheuser-Busch, McDonald’s, Accenture and Subway.

In his most recent role, Mr. Linhardt served as Senior Vice President of Marketing for North America for Subway Restaurants, where he led brand management and guest experience for 30,000 restaurants and designed the company’s global brand transformation plan. Prior to Subway, Mr. Linhardt served as ...

Carl’s Jr. Launches New Bacon Truffle Angus Burger and Bacon Truffle Cheese Fries

Carl’s Jr.®, known for impossible to ignore flavors and craveable menu items, today introduced its latest menu innovations, the Bacon Truffle Angus Burger and Bacon Truffle Cheese Fries, now available for a limited time at participating Carl’s Jr. locations.

The new Bacon Truffle Angus Burger features a decadent truffle-infused white cheddar sauce*, which has a deep, rich and savory flavor including notes of garlic, toasted onion and aged parmesan. The burger includes a charbroiled 100% Black Angus beef patty topped with ...

MLB Fans will Enjoy 18.3 Million Hot Dogs and Nearly Four Million Sausages at Ballparks in 2019

When it comes to what we eat at Major League Baseball (MLB) parks, the top dogs for well over a century have been hot dogs and sausages—and once again, they will reign supreme in 2019. According to a survey by the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council (NHDSC), MLB fans this season are expected to consume about 18.3 million hot dogs and nearly four million sausages.

"It's easy to see why hot dogs and sausages have been stadium staples since the very beginnings of Major League Baseball itself," said NHDSC President Eric Mittenthal. "They are delicious, convenient and nostalgic. What would America's pastime be without these most American of foods?"

While it might not take the sting out of two straight World Series losses, the Los Angeles Dodgers will still top the big leagues wiener-wise, with projected sales of...

McDonald’s to Acquire Dynamic Yield

McDonald’s Corporation (MCD) and Dynamic Yield Ltd. today announced an agreement by which McDonald’s will acquire Dynamic Yield, a leader in personalization and decision logic technology. With this acquisition of Dynamic Yield, based in New York and Tel Aviv, McDonald’s builds on its significant technology investments for growth.

McDonald’s will utilize this decision technology to provide an even more personalized customer experience by varying outdoor digital Drive Thru menu displays to show food based on time of day, weather, current restaurant traffic and trending menu items. The decision technology can also ...

Wendy's Introduces New Parmesan Caesar Chicken Salad 

Balance can be hard to achieve when you're constantly on the go, but when it comes to finding middle ground between delicious flavors and quality ingredients, Wendy's has you covered with its fresh made-in-restaurant daily salad line. From savory to sweet and simple to bold, Wendy's offers a variety of flavor combinations that you wouldn't expect from fast food salads.

And now, Wendy's takes salad craveability even further with the addition of the Parmesan Caesar Chicken Salad to its lineup of freshly made salads. The newest addition puts a unique twist on ...

Domino's and Xevo Deliver In-Car Ordering to New Vehicles in 2019

Domino's Pizza (NYSE: DPZ), the largest pizza company in the world based on global retail sales, knows that some people practically live in their car, so why not make the car a great place to order pizza too? Domino's is working with Xevo Inc., the global leader of in-vehicle commerce and services for automakers, to launch the latest AnyWare pizza ordering platform pre-loaded in cars starting in 2019. The new in-vehicle Domino's app is powered by Xevo Market, an automotive commerce platform for connected cars.

"At Domino's, we want pizza ordering to be simple and always within reach, no matter where a customer happens to be," said Chris Roeser, director of digital experience at Domino's. "This new AnyWare platform will make ordering pizza easy, whether you're in the car waiting for ...