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
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Explore the inspiring story of how Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux and Smalls Sliders revolutionized the restaurant industry through brand development and strategic partnerships.

The story of Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux and Smalls Sliders begins with Brandon Landry, a former basketball walk-on, who defied the odds to create two successful restaurant brands. The initial idea, born out of an entrepreneurship class, faced multiple challenges before securing funding for the first location. Despite initial setbacks and lacking industry experience, Landry's determination and the walk-on mindset propelled the brands forward.
The early success of Walk-On's stemmed from prioritizing culture over immediate profitability. This focus on building a strong foundation resonated with investors and customers alike, eventually attracting notable figures like NFL star Drew Brees. As the brand expanded, Landry realized the need for expertise to navigate the next phase of growth, leading to strategic partnerships with private equity groups.
The collaboration between Landry, Maria Rivera, and 10 Point Capital exemplifies the power of strategic partnerships in fostering brand growth. Rivera's leadership at Smalls Sliders, coupled with the vision and support of 10 Point Capital, has enabled both Walk-On's and Smalls Sliders to scale efficiently and maintain their unique identities in the competitive restaurant market.
Landry's transition to a founder and chairman role signifies a strategic shift towards long-term sustainability and aspirational brand positioning. As the brands continue to excel under new leadership, the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders underscore the importance of shared goals and alignment in achieving sustained success.
The relocation of Walk-On's and Smalls Sliders to Atlanta epitomizes a forward-thinking approach to streamline operations and focus on future opportunities. By leveraging synergies with 10 Point Capital and embracing change, the brands are poised for continued growth and innovation in the dynamic restaurant landscape.