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.
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Opening a coffee shop in 2026 requires careful cost planning across rent, equipment, labor, technology, menu strategy, marketing, and sustainability.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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A warm, expert-led look at McDonald’s Q1 results, menu makeover, and the refranchise question shaping its growth.
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A reflective look at Habit Ranch, its immersive desert activation, and what it signals for brand loyalty and mindful, experiential dining.
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Explore how Gusto! scaled its operations and achieved remarkable growth under Richmond Green's leadership. Learn about the brand's focus on employee development and culture-driven operations.
Photo by Christiann Koepke
Under the visionary leadership of Richmond Green, Gusto! has witnessed exponential growth in a relatively short timeframe. From humble beginnings with just one restaurant generating $1 million in annual sales, the brand has expanded to 14 locations with a remarkable $20 million in sales. Green's strategic initiatives and operational expertise have played a pivotal role in propelling Gusto! to new heights.
As Gusto! approaches its 10th anniversary, the brand is gearing up for further expansion into new markets across the Southeast. Richmond Green, recognized as one of QSR’s Young Leaders to Watch in 2024, leads the chain’s strategic leadership team with a focus on scaling the business effectively. The brand's exploration of nontraditional outlets like airports, ghost kitchens, and cloud kitchens reflects its innovative approach to growth and market diversification.
Photo by Christiann Koepke
Beyond its impressive growth trajectory, Gusto! is renowned for its culture-driven operational model that prioritizes communication, positivity, and employee development. The introduction of the People Leader role underscores the brand's commitment to nurturing its workforce and fostering personal growth both within and outside the dining rooms. This approach has led to a significant reduction in turnover rates, showcasing how investing in team members can yield long-term benefits for the business.
Photo by Christiann Koepke
Richmond Green's emphasis on innovation spans across various aspects of Gusto!'s operations, from evaluating POS systems and digital menu technology to ensuring consistent training and development for all team members. By maintaining a high standard of training regardless of the business model, Gusto! ensures a cohesive and quality experience for customers while empowering employees to deliver their best performance.
If you're eager to learn more about Gusto!'s success story and industry-leading practices, don't miss the opportunity to join Richmond Green and the Gusto! team at this year's QSR Evolution Conference. Additionally, if you believe your brand embodies innovation and operational excellence, nominate yourself as a QSR Evolution Innovator to showcase your achievements and collaborate with industry visionaries.