How Much Does It Cost to Open a Coffee Shop in 2026?
Opening a coffee shop in 2026 requires careful cost planning across rent, equipment, labor, technology, menu strategy, marketing, and sustainability.
May 15, 2026
Opening a coffee shop in 2026 requires careful cost planning across rent, equipment, labor, technology, menu strategy, marketing, and sustainability.
May 15, 2026
This AI playbook covers restaurant tools for voice ordering, staffing, compliance, menu pricing, inventory, marketing, ChatGPT prompts, and SEO.
May 15, 2026
Hardee’s giant Boddie-Noell inks 31-unit Scooter’s Coffee deal for NC and VA, leveraging drive-thru growth and local roots with rollout over 12–18 months.
May 15, 2026
Wingstop turns match weeks into a multi-sensory festival, aligning bold pop-ups with World Cup energy to build brand affinity and measurable momentum.
May 15, 2026
The parent company behind Dunkin', Buffalo Wild Wings, and Arby's has filed for an IPO a move that could reshape how Wall Street views the restaurant sector.
May 15, 2026
Learn how to develop a memorable restaurant brand identity that stands out in a crowded market, attracts loyal customers, and drives repeat business with actionable strategies and affordable tools.
May 15, 2026
Dirty soda chain Swig is expanding into Colorado through a 10-unit franchise deal, riding a consumer beverage trend that's catching the attention of major QSR players nationwide.
May 15, 2026
Papa Johns has teamed up with Alphabet's Wing for drone delivery of its new sandwich lineup in parts of Charlotte marking the first partnership of its kind between Wing and a national QSR brand.
May 15, 2026
A warm, expert-led look at McDonald’s Q1 results, menu makeover, and the refranchise question shaping its growth.
May 14, 2026
A reflective look at Habit Ranch, its immersive desert activation, and what it signals for brand loyalty and mindful, experiential dining.
May 14, 2026
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Discover the recent developments and trends in the restaurant industry, including leadership changes, technological advancements, and evolving consumer preferences.


One of the standout developments in the restaurant industry is Meghan Farren assuming the role of president at Taco Bell North America, effective February 10. With a strong background as the general manager of KFC UK and Ireland and prior experience as the chief marketing officer, Farren brings a wealth of expertise to drive growth and innovation within the Taco Bell brand. Her leadership is anticipated to steer the North American division towards continued success and expansion.

The battle between Dutch Bros and Starbucks has attracted attention due to Dutch Bros consistently outperforming the coffee giant in same-store sales throughout 2024. Several factors contribute to Dutch Bros' success, including its emphasis on the drive-thru model, efficient service, and customer-centric approach. By offering a streamlined experience and connecting with customers on a personal level, Dutch Bros has managed to carve out a significant market share and create a loyal following, showcasing the power of customer engagement in driving sales and growth.

Qdoba's ambitious goal of reaching 1,000 units by 2027 highlights the company's strategic expansion plans following the signing of large franchise agreements. With CEO John Cywinski reporting a substantial same-store sales increase in fiscal 2024, driven significantly by foot traffic, Qdoba's growth strategy appears to be on track. The brand's focus on enhancing the dining experience and capturing market demand underscores its positioning for further success in the competitive restaurant landscape.

The integration of artificial intelligence in the culinary scene takes center stage with Just Salad's launch of Salad AI, a digital ordering feature that acts as a personalized recipe assistant for salad lovers. By leveraging AI technology, Just Salad aims to enhance customer experiences by offering tailored recommendations and streamlining the ordering process. This innovative approach not only reflects changing consumer preferences but also showcases how technology is reshaping foodservice operations to meet evolving demands.