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 latest news and trends in restaurant mergers and acquisitions in 2024. Learn about the significant deals involving industry giants like Roark Capital, Blackstone, and Subway.


One of the major highlights in the restaurant industry in 2024 was Roark Capital's acquisition of Subway. Subway, known as the world's largest quick-service sandwich chain with nearly 37,000 franchised restaurants globally, became a part of Roark Capital in April. Roark Capital, a prominent Atlanta-based private equity firm with a strong foothold in the restaurant sector, added Subway to its impressive portfolio of brands.
Roark Capital's acquisition of Subway added to its already diverse portfolio of restaurant chains. The firm is a key operator behind Inspire Brands, which boasts a range of well-known brands including Arby’s, Buffalo Wild Wings, Sonic Drive-In, Dunkin’, Baskin-Robbins, and Jimmy John’s. Additionally, Roark Capital supports GoTo Foods, previously Focus Brands, which oversees franchises like Auntie Anne’s, Carvel, Cinnabon, and Moe’s Southwest Grill among others.
Another significant deal that shook the industry in 2024 was Blackstone's majority ownership position in Jersey Mike's. The popular sub shop, founded by Peter Cancro in 1975, saw Blackstone stepping in to accelerate its expansion plans and enhance its technological capabilities. Despite the acquisition, Peter Cancro maintained a significant equity stake in Jersey Mike's and continued to lead the company, ensuring continuity in its operations and growth strategy.

Blackstone's move to invest in Jersey Mike's aligned with its broader strategy in the restaurant sector. Prior to Jersey Mike's, Blackstone had already ventured into the industry with investments in Tropical Smoothie Café and 7 Brew Coffee. The acquisition of Jersey Mike's marked another milestone in Blackstone's efforts to capitalize on the evolving food and beverage landscape and foster growth for its portfolio companies.
The flurry of mergers and acquisitions in the restaurant industry in 2024 reflects the ongoing drive for expansion, innovation, and strategic partnerships. These deals not only reshape the competitive landscape but also influence consumer choices and market dynamics. Companies like Roark Capital and Blackstone are at the forefront of driving change and shaping the future of the foodservice industry through strategic acquisitions.