QSR closures reveal a shift from growth at all costs

by Valerie Gritton

As Wendy's closes underperforming restaurants, development data suggests the next phase of restaurant growth will be defined by stronger unit economics and…

Whataburger brings back Bacon Wrangler, adds chicken option

August 11, 2026

Whataburger is bringing back its Bacon Wrangler Double and introducing a chicken variation to its menu starting Aug. 18, according to a press release.

Wendy’s unveils new, returning pub-inspired fan favorites

August 10, 2026

Wendy's has unveiled its New Apple Crumble Frosty Fusion and is returning to the menu several pub-inspired fan favorites as part of its 'Bring it Back…

Del Taco introduces All-American Burgertaco, expands specialty beverage line

August 7, 2026

Del Taco is combining two of its most popular menu items with the launch of the All-American Burgertaco on Aug. 6, according to a press release.

Wendy’s reports comp declines; remains focused on turnaround

by Valerie Gritton

August 7, 2026

Wendy's reported its Q2 earnings, showing a U.S. comparable same-store sales decline of 7% while international comps decreased 2.3%. Overall, global same-store…

McDonald's Q2 growth driven by 4 D's

August 4, 2026

McDonald's Corporation announced in a news release its Q2 earnings results, driven by a 4% increase in revenue to $7.1 billion. Global systemwide sales rose 5%.

How Linerless Labels Improve QSR Beverage Operations

As beverage programs evolve, QSR operators need solutions that scale with speed, accuracy, and efficiency. Iconex linerless beverage labels keep critical order…

Smalls Sliders celebrates first Ohio opening

July 17, 2026

Smalls Sliders is opening its first location in Ohio. The location, in South Point, Ohio, will be led by local operators and brothers Beckett and Sam Gue and…

The next generation of QSR, Part 1: The new economics of value

by Valerie Gritton

This four-part series explores the forces reshaping the next generation of quick-service restaurants, examining how shifting consumer behaviors, economic…

North Carolina Senator Chuck Edwards, wife, sell McDonald’s restaurants

July 13, 2026

Republican Sentator Chuck Edwards (NC-11) and his wife, Teresa, have sold their McDonald's franchise restaurants, according to a news release.

Irv’s Burgers continues Nevada growth

July 9, 2026

Irv's Burgers is continuing its expansion across Southern Nevada with the opening of a new restaurant inside Green Valley Ranch Resort & Casino & Spa…

Burger King extends chicken sandwich lineup

July 7, 2026

Burger King has announced the launch of two new additions to its Original Chicken Sandwich lineup: the Loaded Jalapeño Original Chicken Sandwich and the Club…

Smalls Sliders launches Soda Shakes, Coca-Cola’s new concentrated syrups

July 6, 2026

Smalls Sliders is rolling out two new beverages for the summer season. The company has announced its new line of Soda Shakes, featuring Fanta and Barq's Root…

Carl's Jr. offers free burgers to road trippers who bypass Jack in the Box

June 25, 2026

As Americans prepare for one of the busiest travel weekends of the summer, Carl's Jr. is issuing a playful challenge to road trippers to bypass a competitor…

Wendy’s Q1 sales decline 7.8% as Project Fresh turnaround gains momentum

by Amy Sorter — Writer and Editor, Connect Media

Wendy's reported its Q1 2026 results on May 8, focusing on its Project Fresh initiatives.

White Castle broadens freezer aisle availability for Cheddar Bacon Cheese Slider

March 16, 2026

White Castle is expanding the retail distribution of its Cheddar Bacon Cheese Slider following a limited initial release last year.

Burger King elevates The Whopper following guest feedback

February 26, 2026

As Burger King continues giving guests the ability to call or text its president, Tom Curtis, customers have already helped shape operations, the restaurant's…

Hardee's introduces Frisco Breakfast Burger

February 24, 2026

Hardee's has introduced the Frisco Breakfast Burger for a limited time from now through May 12. The breakfast sandwich features a 100% U.S.A. Angus beef patty…

Sonic kicks off All-American Sonic Smasher

January 15, 2026

Sonic has released the All-American Sonic Smasher, according to a press release.

Emerging Sports, Emerging Restaurant Opportunities

Sports that may have been overlooked in the past are capturing the public’s imagination and creating fresh opportunities for restaurant operators. These new…