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| A TikTok video featuring Pizza Hut’s hold music, sung by actor Craig Robinson, went viral with nearly three million views. The catchy song praises Pizza Hut’s chicken wings, becoming a sensation on social media. Fans were delighted to learn Robinson’s involvement, confirmed by Pizza Hut. The original poster, @noraeinhelll, shared her amusement over the song, adding to its popularity. |
| Taco Bell U.S. has unveiled its digital deal lineup until March 24, encompassing app-exclusive discounts and third-party delivery offers. Noteworthy in-app deals include $1 Grilled Cheese Burrito and Crunchwrap specials, alongside freebies like Crispanadas and a discounted Mexican Pizza for Pi Day. Additionally, promotions feature discounts on subsequent orders and a day of waived delivery fees. |
| Chefs Jennifer Hwa Dobbertin, Reuben Asaram and Lawrence Smith, hailing from San Antonio, Philadelphia and Phoenix respectively, have been chosen by Taco Bell to reinvent the Crunchwrap Supreme. Excited by the opportunity, they noted that they anticipate learning from Taco Bell’s expertise while adding their own flair. This collaboration signals Taco Bell’s embrace of culinary innovation and support for emerging talent. |
| Business Insider’s Anneta Konstantinides, who went to Taco Bell’s headquarters in Irvine in March 2023 to try the chain’s new spin on an empanada, reported that the Cheesy Chicken Crispanada, previously only available in Knoxville, Tennessee, is now available nationwide. Revealed during Live Más LIVE in Las Vegas, this $3.49 item blends shredded white and dark chicken with cheddar and mozzarella cheeses in a phyllo dough shell. Konstantinides noted that the texture was crispy yet firm, complimenting the creamy and cheesy filling. |
| Yum! has a long history of do-gooding |
At Yum!, we have a Recipe for Good Growth, which centers on doing right by our people, food and the planet. It's something that we've continuously improved upon year after year and is the focus of our latest "Quick Bite," a video series that documents Yum! news in about a minute's time. Watch and learn how the world's largest restaurant company is committed to doing good.
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| Jack in the Box’s sales for the first quarter of fiscal 2024 were hindered by weather and economic concerns, especially among lower-income consumers. Despite a slight increase in same-store sales, there was noticeable pressure, prompting the introduction of the Smashed Jack burger alongside value and breakfast offers. Executives are optimistic about the burger’s potential after a successful soft launch, planning a larger rollout with media support. They also aim to enhance value offerings and revitalize breakfast items. |
| Jack in the Box highlighted its plans to expand into West Michigan, opening five restaurants in Battle Creek and surrounding counties over the next five years. Led by franchisee Niraj Patel, known for operating hotels in the region, these new locations will offer the chain’s signature items like the Sourdough Jack Sandwich, tacos, chicken sandwiches and breakfast options. Emphasizing community growth and job creation, each restaurant will provide dine-in, drive-thru and mobile ordering services, operating 24/7. |
| Wingstop is experiencing record-high guest acquisitions, driven by a surge in digital engagement. With the imminent launch of its proprietary online ordering platform, MyWingstop, the chain anticipates leveraging first-party data to personalize customer experiences. The $50 million investment aims to enhance conversion, frequency and retention. Despite franchisee contributions increasing to cover operational costs, the U.S.-only rollout signifies a focus on domestic growth initially. |
| El Pollo Loco has introduced two enticing menu additions: the Double Baja Shrimp Tostada and Chicken & Shrimp Tostada. Chief Marketing Officer Jill Adams highlighted the protein-rich options, ideal for Lent. Available for a limited time at all locations, customers can enjoy a $0 delivery fee on orders over $1 made through elpolloloco.com or the app on February 22, within designated delivery areas. |
| A survey by William Blair reveals that customers on appetite-suppressing drugs like Ozempic are gravitating toward healthier options, with Sweetgreen emerging as a surprise winner. Brands like Sweetgreen and CAVA, offering fruits and vegetables, saw increased visits. Conversely, burger chains like Shake Shack experienced declines, attributed to the drugs’ side effects on certain foods. |
| FAT Brands has announced the opening of a new Fatburger location in Celebration, FL, marking the burger brand’s debut in the Orlando area. It’s the second of 14 planned locations in Orlando and western Florida. The franchisee, Ravi Singh, expressed excitement about bringing the beloved brand to Orlando, promising a great opening week with enticing food deals. |
| Condado Tacos has appointed Natalie Harden as Chief Financial Officer, bringing dynamic expertise from roles at Chuy’s Holdings and other prominent firms. With a focus on growth and innovation, Harden aims to support Condado’s expansion and uphold its distinctive culture. Recognized for its inventive offerings, Condado Tacos won the Nation’s Restaurant News Taco Showdown in 2023. |
| Houston TX Hot Chicken is set to open six new locations across Utah by summer 2024. Led by franchise group Running Roosters LLC, the brand has promised a fiery debut with its modern decor, unique artwork and signature hot chicken offerings. Grand opening celebrations will feature an Exotic Car Meet, food challenges and complimentary sandwiches for early birds. |
| The Cheesecake Factory has maintained its stability with a 2.5% rise in same-store sales in Q4, driven by pricing with flat traffic. Despite weather impacts, it anticipates continued growth. The chain attributed its success to stable consumer behavior and controlled labor costs. Experimenting with its first loyalty program, Cheesecake Rewards, the brand noted that it remains cautious, expecting results over time. |
| Burgerim and its founder, Oren Loni, are facing severe penalties following a federal court settlement and default judgment. The judgment includes a permanent injunction against Burgerim Group Inc. from selling franchises in the U.S. and a $56 million monetary penalty. Loni settled in November, agreeing to a $5 million civil penalty and $38.8 million for consumer redress, with a nominal $1,000 payment upfront. The U.S. FTC accused Burgerim of misleading over 1,500 franchisees about risks and failing to provide promised refunds. |
| Apex Order Pickup Solutions has won the 2024 Kitchen Innovations Award for its OrderHQ Exterior Smart Food Locker. The system streamlines takeout and delivery pickup by moving it outdoors, reducing indoor congestion. Judges praised its weatherproofing and security features. Customers can scan a code to retrieve orders, improving efficiency and reducing errors. The solution integrates with existing software for operational visibility. CEO Kent Savage highlighted its role in enhancing the customer journey and operational efficiency. |
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