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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Explore the latest developments in consumer health and the restaurant industry in 2025. Learn about the new CEO appointment at Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants and the comeback of Hot 'n Now.

As we enter 2025, insights from industry executives and analysts suggest that consumer health is stabilizing in the restaurant sector. The consensus is that consumers have reached a point where their debt levels have peaked, indicating a more stable financial position. This trend is crucial for the industry as it provides a more predictable outlook for consumer spending patterns.
Despite the stabilization in consumer health, experts predict that consumers are likely to remain discerning with their restaurant spending in 2025. This means that consumers are expected to be more selective in their dining choices, looking for value, quality, and unique experiences. Restaurants will need to adapt by offering differentiated offerings that cater to these discerning preferences.
In recent news, Lettuce Entertain You Restaurants has announced a new CEO appointment. President R.J. Melman has been promoted to chief executive, taking over from Kevin Brown at the Chicago-based multi-concept operator. Melman, who will also continue as president, is expected to bring fresh perspectives and leadership to drive the company's growth and innovation strategies.

Hot 'n Now, a once-popular quick-service burger concept founded in 1996, is making a comeback in 2025. Gun Lakes Investments, in collaboration with developer Jeff Konczak, has acquired the brand with plans to revitalize and expand its presence. Despite facing setbacks and ownership changes in the past, the brand's return highlights the potential for revival and adaptation in the competitive restaurant market.