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 how Todd Ewen's commercial real estate experience is shaping Whataburger's expansion and growth strategy. Learn about his journey from L3 Commercial Development to Senior VP at the iconic burger chain.

Todd Ewen's journey from being the owner/manager of L3 Commercial Development to his current role as the Senior Vice President and Chief Development Officer at Whataburger is a testament to his exceptional leadership and expertise in the commercial real estate industry. With over two decades of experience, Ewen has amassed a wealth of knowledge in site selection, strategic growth, and deal-making, making him a valuable asset to Whataburger's ambitious growth plans.

Since joining Whataburger, Todd Ewen has been instrumental in spearheading the burger chain's expansion into new states, including Florida and Georgia. With plans to enter North Carolina and other markets, Ewen's strategic guidance is paving the way for Whataburger to bring its iconic menu items and hospitality to a broader audience. His role in opening over 1,000 locations last year showcases his dedication to scaling the brand's presence and increasing accessibility for customers.
One of Todd Ewen's key responsibilities at Whataburger is to forge strategic partnerships that fuel the brand's growth. The recent collaboration with Love's Travel Shops to open a location in San Antonio, Texas exemplifies Ewen's ability to identify new opportunities for expansion. By leveraging his real estate acumen and industry connections, Ewen is driving Whataburger's vision to introduce its beloved menu offerings to millions of new customers across the country.
As Whataburger aims to reach more customers and expand its footprint nationwide, Todd Ewen's in-depth understanding of the quick-service restaurant industry's real estate dynamics plays a pivotal role. His experience at McDonald's and L3 Commercial Development has honed his expertise in growth strategy execution, making him a trusted leader in guiding Whataburger towards sustainable and successful expansion.