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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Stay up-to-date with the latest news in the restaurant industry. Learn about McDonald's largest franchisee renewal, Nasdaq's warning to Noodles & Company, and TGI Fridays' sale to Mera Global.
Photo by Erik Mclean

Photo by Erik Mclean
One of the significant headlines this week in the restaurant industry was the renewal of McDonald's largest franchisee, Arcos Dorados Holdings Inc.'s agreement. As the world's largest independent McDonald's franchisee, Arcos Dorados Holdings Inc., based in Latin America, signed a new 20-year Master Franchise Agreement with the fast-food giant. The new MFA came into effect on January 1, 2025, replacing the previous arrangement. A key feature of the renewed agreement is an additional renewal option at McDonald's discretion for the following 20 years from January 1, 2045.
In other news, the Nasdaq Stock Market issued a warning to Noodles & Company regarding its share price. The fast-casual noodle chain was notified by Nasdaq that its share price had fallen below the exchange's minimum bid price requirement of $1 per share for more than 30 consecutive business days. This notification puts Noodles & Company in a position of noncompliance with the exchange rules, signaling potential challenges for the company's stock performance and market position.
Mera Global LLC, a Mexico-based company, made headlines by successfully acquiring five TGI Fridays units at the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport and several others in Maryland. The acquisition came through a ruling in TGI Fridays' Chapter 11 bankruptcy case, where Mera Global emerged as the highest bidder with a bid of $34.5 million. This move showcases strategic business decisions in the restaurant industry, demonstrating opportunities for growth and expansion even in challenging market conditions.

Photo by Erik Mclean
Aside from these major stories, several trending items have captured the attention of readers on NRN.com this week. From new menu additions at popular chains like Del Taco, Chick-fil-A, and Dunkin' to insights into the dynamic landscape of the restaurant business, there is a plethora of information available to industry enthusiasts. Stay informed and stay ahead by keeping an eye on the latest developments in the foodservice sector.