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!
Explore the resignation of Sweetgreen's COO, Rossann Williams, and the impact on the company's growth strategy, particularly the Infinite Kitchen model.
Photo by Aubrey Odom
Photo by Aubrey Odom
Rossann Williams, the Chief Operating Officer of Sweetgreen, recently announced her resignation from the company, effective April 16. The decision to part ways was mutual, as indicated by a securities filing. While the specifics of the agreement remain undisclosed, Williams will continue to support Sweetgreen in a consulting capacity until June 1, ensuring a smooth transition. Her tenure at Sweetgreen, during which she oversaw operations, supply chain, real estate, and development, has been marked by notable achievements and strategic leadership.
Photo by Aubrey Odom
Before joining Sweetgreen, Rossann Williams amassed over 18 years of experience at Starbucks, culminating in her role as the executive vice president of North America retail. In this position, she played a pivotal role in managing 16,000 locations, spearheading expansion initiatives, and driving growth in same-store sales. Williams' extensive background in the food and beverage industry equipped her with the expertise needed to shape Sweetgreen's operational strategies and navigate the competitive landscape.
Photo by Aubrey Odom
Under Rossann Williams' leadership, Sweetgreen embarked on expanding its innovative Infinite Kitchen model, a game-changer in the restaurant industry. By the end of 2024, the chain boasted 12 Infinite Kitchens, showcasing the impact of automation on restaurant operations. The deployment of automated makelines within these kitchens not only enhanced efficiency but also contributed to improved margins and reduced turnover rates, signaling a shift towards tech-driven solutions in the food sector.
Photo by Aubrey Odom
Despite facing losses, Sweetgreen has maintained an ambitious growth trajectory. The chain expanded to 246 units by opening 25 new locations, with plans to launch 40 more restaurants this year, emphasizing the company's commitment to expansion. Half of these new establishments are slated to incorporate the Infinite Kitchen model, highlighting Sweetgreen's continued emphasis on innovation. While the brand reported a net loss of $90.4 million last year, a significant improvement from the previous year, the growth in same-store sales by 6% and the stability of average unit volumes at $2.9 million underscore the brand's resilience and potential for future profitability.