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| KFC Canada and Logan Paul teased a potential collaboration after Paul’s April Fools’ joke about a KFC-flavored energy drink. KFC responded with a joke about a KFC x Prime Hydration sauce, prompting Paul to express interest. If KFC’s Instagram post reaches 50,000 likes, the collaboration might proceed. Marketing director Azim Akhtar noted that he sees the prank as an opportunity for playful innovation, aiming for memorable experiences. While the collaboration’s fate remains uncertain, KFC urges followers to stay tuned. |
| KFC U.S. launched a new dessert, Apple Pie Poppers, consisting of bite-sized pastries filled with warm apple pie filling, encased in a buttery, flaky crust. Priced at $2.49 for four, the treat is available at select KFC outlets across the country from April 1. |
| KFC New Zealand is collaborating with Auckland Transport for the “KFC Gravy Train,” offering free fried chicken to rugby fans heading to the Blues game at Eden Park. The train, adorned with KFC branding, runs from Britomart to Kingsland. Blues legend Carlos Spencer and his “wingers” will distribute chicken to passengers. The initiative aims to encourage public transport use for events. Non-attendees enjoy waived delivery fees nationwide from KFC. |
| Pizza Hut U.S. has introduced the $12 Any Pizza deal, allowing customers to get any large pizza with up to 10 toppings for $12 at select locations nationwide. The deal encompasses Original Pan, Hand Tossed and Thin ‘N Crispy crusts, with options for Stuffed Crust and extra cheese at an additional cost. However, in certain areas like CA, WA and IL, the deal may vary, such as being applicable only for medium pizzas, as observed in the Los Angeles region. |
| Taco Bell U.S. is collaborating with lifestyle brand Wildfang for a limited-edition coverall featuring 20 pockets inspired by Taco Bell menu items. The coverall previews with both brands and is available for early access to rewards members via the Taco Bell app on April 2, followed by general access on April 3 at Wildfang.com for $178. The collaboration, endorsed by artist Hayley Kiyoko, highlighted the spacious pockets designed to hold various items, including Taco Bell’s Mild Sauce. Taylor Montgomery, Taco Bell’s CMO, emphasized the brand’s commitment to partnering with innovative brands. |
| Pizza Hut Sri Lanka offers a slice of hope to marginalized youth |
Did you know that unemployment for Sri Lankan youth hit a staggering 26% last year? That's why Pizza Hut Sri Lanka and Yum!'s Unlocking Opportunity Initiative, our company's investment of $100 million to create more equality in the areas of equity & inclusion, education and entrepreneurship, have joined forces with the Sevalanka Foundation to introduce the Youth Enablement Program. This initiative is specifically tailored to empower them with the essential skills needed to thrive in a job in the quick-service restaurant industry. Read more about how opportunity for meaningful employment is being unlocking, paving a brighter future for Sri Lanka's youth. |  | (For Yum! Eyes Only) |
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| Delight Restaurant Group has acquired 65 Wendy’s restaurants from Primary Aim, expanding its portfolio to 226 restaurants in Pennsylvania, Ohio and West Virginia. Founded in 2016, the Norfolk-based company now boasts $500 million in sales. The terms of the acquisition were not disclosed. Previous acquisitions include 30 units from Wendy’s in 2017 and 54 restaurants from NPC International in 2021. This marks Delight’s first acquisition in three years, reflecting a recent uptick in franchise mergers and acquisitions. |
| Chipotle has launched the Burrito Vault Game, mirroring Wordle, where players decode burrito orders to win BOGO entrée codes for National Burrito Day on April 4. Winners enter a sweepstake for a chance to win free burritos for a year. The game highlights Chipotle’s customizable menu, with 1.34 billion burrito combinations. Chipotle has a history of ramified marketing, including Roblox games and crypto giveaways. |
| McDonald’s has introduced the Remix Menu across Canada, offering fan-favorite mashups as official items for a limited time. Partnering with Lil Yachty, who remixes the 1989 McDonald’s Menu Song, and musician Mike Clay, McDonald’s aims to evoke nostalgia while celebrating its menu items. The menu includes the Chicken Cheeseburger, Surf ‘N Turf Burger, Sweet Chili Junior Chicken and Apple Pie McFlurry. Available until April 29, the Remix Menu marks McDonald’s first-ever such offering. |
| Papa John’s has unveiled its new marketing platform, “Better Get You Some,” aimed at emphasizing the role of pizza in people’s lives beyond just its ingredients. Partnering with The Martin Agency and featuring music by Grammy-winning rapper Big Boi, the campaign focuses on moments where pizza enhances experiences, like sports events or late-night study sessions. With the pizza industry facing challenges post-pandemic due to increased competition from third-party delivery services, Papa John’s seeks to boost sales through a more comprehensive marketing approach. |
| Bojangles is bringing back its Bo Sauce, a sweet, tangy and creamy dipping sauce with herbs and spices, to enhance its Chicken Supremes. Following fans’ requests after its disappearance in 2022, Bojangles reintroduced Bo Sauce, available at participating locations and for online orders. Responding to over 24,000 pleas for its return, Bojangles’ CMO emphasized the sauce’s popularity and its perfect pairing with Chicken Supremes and seasoned fries. |
| CAVA has launched a TikTok contest, “Guest Customs Contest,” allowing users to create custom CAVA bowl recipes for a chance to have them featured on the menu temporarily. Participants submit videos with #CAVACustomContest, explaining why their bowl is the best. CAVA’s teams will judge based on video originality, culinary uniqueness and deliciousness. Three winners will receive $5,000 in CAVA rewards credit and see their creations on the menu from May 20 to June 2. |
| Taco John’s has introduced a limited-time Taco Pizza, featuring a 10-inch round corn and wheat flour crust topped with refried beans, beef, four-cheese blend, fiesta sauce and crunchy tortilla strips. Finished with shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes, the pizza offers eight slices for $9.99. Brad Bergaus, Taco John’s corporate chef, emphasized the blend of taco and pizza elements with bold flavors and quality ingredients. |
| Marco’s Pizza has appointed John Meyers, a seasoned hospitality industry professional, as Chief Operating Officer. Meyers, previously serving as Senior Vice President of Finance and Business Intelligence, will now oversee operations, supply chain and technology. He succeeds interim COO Tim Brown, who will resume his role as a full-time area representative and franchisee. Tony Libardi, Marco’s Pizza co-CEO, expressed confidence in Meyers’ leadership and strategic vision to drive sustained growth for the brand. |
| PINCHO and popular Miami foodie Mr.Eats305 have teamed up for the April Limited Time Offer (LTO): “The PINCHO Smash Burger by Mr.Eats305.” The collaboration, stemming from mutual admiration, combines double smashed patties, American cheese, pickles, diced onions and PINCHO’s secret sauce between brioche buns. Created by George Arango and PINCHO’s Culinary Director Adrian Sanchez, the burger will be available at all PINCHO locations in Miami and Texas throughout April. Mr.Eats305, known for his food recommendations, expressed excitement for the partnership, aiming to introduce locals and tourists to exceptional dining experiences. |
| California has set the hourly minimum wage for fast food workers at $20 for brands with 60 or more units nationally, sparking debate over its impact on the industry. Angelica Hernandez, a McDonald’s worker and member of the Fast Food Council, highlighted concerns about retaliation from employers. Studies suggest minimal employment effects from wage increases, with potential benefits including reduced turnover and increased productivity. Critics argue potential price hikes could affect consumer traffic, though data shows fast food prices have outpaced overall inflation. The Roosevelt Institute asserts major firms can absorb the wage increase without raising prices. |
| Re-Up, a convenience store chain, is introducing “The Wingman,” a robotic fry cook from Nala Robotics, to revolutionize fried food preparation. The robot uses AI to customize fried chicken, fries and other items efficiently, emphasizing improved quality and reduced labor costs. Re-Up founder Michael Salafia highlighted the AI’s ability to provide convenient and personalized dining experiences. |
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