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.
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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.
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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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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.
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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.
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.
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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 the innovative strategies adopted by El Pollo Loco and Biglari Holdings to enhance market presence and brand perception.
Photo by Michaël Hanssen
Photo by Michaël Hanssen
El Pollo Loco's recent sales growth, driven primarily by pricing strategies impacting check size, highlights the importance of continuous market positioning. CEO Liz Williams' strategic five-part plan, focusing on digital touchpoints and cost-effective franchise development, signals a proactive approach towards enhancing the brand's competitive edge. The emphasis on remodeling efforts based on a new prototype design reflects a commitment to modernization and customer experience.
The slow yet steady unit growth of El Pollo Loco over the past years, in comparison to the decline in units by Biglari's Steak ‘n Shake, underlines the significance of strategic expansion. While maintaining profitability is crucial, scaling the brand through franchise development is essential for long-term sustainability. El Pollo Loco's unit growth trajectory showcases a strategic balance between expansion and operational efficiency.
Biglari Holdings' unconventional marketing gimmicks, such as the use of beef tallow in cooking, exemplify a novel approach to brand differentiation. The visit by a prominent public figure like U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services and the ensuing media attention demonstrate the power of unique marketing strategies in reshaping brand perception. However, balancing these gimmicks with maintaining a positive brand image is critical for long-term success.