In the rapidly evolving landscape of "eatertainment"—a burgeoning sector of the hospitality industry that fuses high-quality dining with social activity—few stories are as compelling as that of Chicken N Pickle. What began as a localized experiment in Kansas City, Missouri, has blossomed into a multi-state powerhouse that helped pioneer the pickleball craze long before it […]

Despite approaching the milestone of 700 locations, First Watch—the Florida-based leader of the daytime dining segment—still feels like it is in the midst of a "coming-out party." This sentiment, voiced by CEO Chris Tomasso, encapsulates a unique paradox in the American restaurant landscape: a brand that is simultaneously the fastest-expanding full-service concept in the country […]

LEXINGTON, KY – In a move that bridges the historic gap between the birthplace of Bourbon and the traditional heart of the British spirits trade, Never Say Die, the innovative "English Bourbon" brand, has officially announced the development of its flagship brand home in downtown Lexington, Kentucky. Scheduled to open its doors in the autumn […]

LAKELAND, FL — In a decisive move to reverse years of domestic contraction and revitalize its market presence, Checkers & Rally’s Drive-In Restaurants, Inc. has announced the appointment of Peter Busse as its new Chief Development Officer (CDO). Busse, a veteran of the quick-service restaurant (QSR) industry with high-level experience at Torchy’s Tacos and Yum […]

PLANO, Texas — In a move signaling a definitive shift toward operational modernization and global brand cohesion, KFC Global has announced the appointment of Maria Cacciapuoti as its new Chief Operations Officer. Cacciapuoti, a veteran of the Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) industry with over two decades of experience, steps into the role at a pivotal […]

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – In a strategic move designed to capture a larger share of the burgeoning morning wellness market, CRISP & GREEN, the rapidly expanding fast-casual powerhouse known for its intersection of nutrition and fitness, has announced a significant shift in its operational model. Starting July 22, the Minneapolis-based brand is officially expanding its morning […]

LAKE FOREST, CA — In an era defined by shifting consumer loyalties and an increasingly competitive quick-service restaurant (QSR) landscape, Del Taco has once again proven that its unique blend of quality, value, and menu diversity is a winning formula. The nation’s second-largest Mexican QSR brand has officially been crowned the #1 Fast Food Restaurant […]

ATLANTA, GA — In a move that signals a significant shift in the landscape of non-traditional restaurant development, Craveworthy Brands has announced the August 2026 debut of "Crave Kitchen" at the Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech). This innovative multi-brand hub will house seven distinct culinary concepts under a single roof, offering a unified dining […]

MIDLOTHIAN, VA – The culinary landscape of Central Virginia is about to get a major infusion of volume and flavor. Rock N’ Roll Sushi, the rapidly expanding American-style sushi franchise known for its "Dine Out Loud" philosophy, has officially announced its entry into the Commonwealth. The brand’s first Virginia location is set to open its […]

The global spirits industry remains a colossus of international trade, a sector where heritage brands and innovative newcomers vie for the attention of an increasingly discerning—and economically pressured—consumer base. The release of The Brand Champions 2026 report, which meticulously tracks the performance of million-case-selling brands throughout the 2025 calendar year, offers a definitive look at […]