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
Unlock Exclusive Access To Webinars, Events, And The Latest News For Free!
Discover the appointment of Jason Cochran as the new Chief Operating Officer of Sweetgreen and the impact of his extensive operational experience in the restaurant industry.
Photo by Aubrey Odom
Jason Cochran, previously CEO of American West Restaurant Group, has taken on the role of Chief Operating Officer at Sweetgreen after Rossann Williams. With a background in leading major franchise operations at Pizza Hut and driving successful turnarounds at Chipotle, Cochran brings a wealth of experience in optimizing operational efficiency and enhancing customer experience. His focus on scaling businesses, enhancing organizational culture, and delivering value aligns with Sweetgreen's vision for growth and sustainability.
Photo by Aubrey Odom
Cochran's tenure at Chipotle during its revival phase under Brian Niccol positions him well to navigate Sweetgreen's operational challenges. His experience in overseeing a significant restaurant franchise, coupled with a successful track record at a pioneering fast-casual chain, equips him with the strategic acumen needed to drive Sweetgreen towards profitability. The operational intricacies of the restaurant industry demand a leader who can innovate and adapt to market dynamics, which Cochran's background suggests he is well-equipped for.
Photo by Aubrey Odom
Sweetgreen, despite its innovation initiatives and expansion efforts, faces profitability constraints. Cochran's experience in the competitive fast-casual sector, particularly at Chipotle, where he witnessed a remarkable turnaround, could provide valuable insights for Sweetgreen's growth trajectory. As the salad industry becomes increasingly competitive, with new entrants like Salad and Go gaining momentum, Cochran's strategic oversight will be pivotal in positioning Sweetgreen as a leader in the market. Emulating successful strategies from rivals like Just Salad showcases the importance of adapting to industry trends and consumer preferences to drive sustained growth.