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| KFC UAE launched an out-of-home (OOH) advertising campaign to promote its Peri-Peri Twister. The campaign, highlighted on insiteooh.com, features visuals showcasing the spicy chicken wrap, enticing viewers to indulge in the flavorful experience. Using vibrant imagery and messaging, the OOH campaign aims to capture attention and drive interest in KFC’s Peri-Peri Twister. |
| The Habit Burger announced the grand opening of its fifth South Carolina restaurant in Lexington, featuring a drive-thru at 5304 Sunset Blvd. Inaugurating on January 31, the opening includes exclusive events for CharClub and app members. Highlights include Free Charburger Day on January 27 and Free Habit Days on January 29 and 30, offering complimentary meals to the first 200 guests. |
| This KFC U.S. employee made the leap and you can, too |
Looking to change things up in your career, but not sure where to begin? Check out the latest #3Questions, the series that features conversations between employees and Yum! CEO David Gibbs, to see how Ray Jeffries, KFC U.S. PR analyst, had a vision, made connections and boldly stepped out of his comfort zone to land his dream job. You'll be left inspired and equipped for your next move! |  | (For Yum! Eyes Only) |
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| An Oxford Economics study revealed that McDonald’s has a significant economic impact, contributing $108 billion annually to the country’s GDP. Spread nationwide, its influence ranges from a $100 million impact in Wyoming to $6.1 billion in Texas. The report emphasized the company’s role in job creation, generating 1.4 million U.S. jobs per year, with 1 in 8 Americans having worked at McDonald’s. |
| Chipotle announced it plans to hire 19,000 workers for its peak sales period, known as “burrito season,” spanning March to May. Last year, the company aimed to add 15,000 employees across its North American locations. Chipotle, with over 110,000 employees at 3,400 restaurants, emphasizes hiring from Gen Z, constituting nearly three-quarters of its workforce. The company is introducing new benefits, including mental health resources, matching retirement-fund contributions for those with student-loan debt and a debit card to aid credit building. |
| QDOBA announced a strategic partnership with Leo Burnett, an award-winning advertising agency, to oversee all creative and production efforts. This collaboration signifies a crucial phase in QDOBA’s growth strategy, aiming for rapid expansion and a doubling of its current 750 locations over the next seven years. With 80% of its locations franchised, QDOBA noted it plans to accelerate restaurant development with existing and new franchise partners. |
| Hardee’s announced the return of Heart Shaped Biscuits, available on all breakfast sandwiches from Feb. 1-14 for Valentine’s Day. Regina Schneider, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Hardee’s, expressed the brand’s commitment to crafting quality biscuits and bringing joy to customers. During this period, My Rewards Members can receive a BOGO Biscuit offer on the app. |
| In 2023, restaurant development exceeded pre-pandemic levels, experiencing a 10% increase over the 2022 level and setting an all-time expansion record, as reported by Yelp. This growth is seen as a positive sign for sectors and geographic areas that faced challenges during the COVID crisis. New York City, despite previous economic setbacks, led in restaurant openings with 4,739 additions. The data also highlights substantial expansion in emerging sectors, with the breakfast and brunch segment growing by nearly 6,000 restaurants. |
| Firehouse Subs is aiming to expand its presence in Canada and is offering $100,000 to current or former first responders and veterans who commit to opening a Firehouse Subs restaurant. This offer extends to second and third restaurant openings as well. The chain, founded by former firefighter brothers nearly 30 years ago, is emphasizing its connection to first responders and veterans. |
| Craveworthy Brands is set to acquire “a significant stake” in Dirty Dough Cookies, according to an announcement. The precise percentage of the stake has not been disclosed. Craveworthy CEO Gregg Majewski will replace Jill Summerhays as CEO of Dirty Dough, guiding the brand through a growth push with over 40 units under construction and 450 franchised locations in the pipeline. |
| Potbelly has announced that it has nearly 200 stores under development. The chain signed 192 new development commitments around the U.S., part of its Franchise Growth Acceleration Initiative. New restaurants are slated for New York, Maryland, Florida, Ohio, Washington, Arkansas, North Carolina, Tennessee and Texas. The chain currently has about 425 U.S. stores but only about 17% are currently run by franchisees. |
| FAST Acquisition Corp. is set to pay $12.5 million to settle investor litigation accusing its executives of attempting to retain a $33 million breakup fee to end a planned merger with the parent company of Landry’s restaurants. The Delaware Court of Chancery approved the settlement. In December 2021, FAST Acquisition terminated the plan to take the Landry’s-Golden Nugget parent public, and the settlement resolves the dispute over the breakup fee. |
| SoundHound AI and Jersey Mike’s Subs have partnered to introduce a voice AI ordering system that enables customers to place phone orders for pick-up using natural human speech. Initially available at 50 locations, SoundHound’s voice technology has been trained on Jersey Mike’s entire menu, allowing customers to place orders effortlessly and accurately. The AI system can also answer menu-related questions, provide information about specials, promotions, opening times, parking, allergens and more. |
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