Convenience Stores Are Becoming Fast-Food Restaurants. Here's Who's Leading the Charge
Convenience stores are adding name-brand restaurant counters at a pace that would have seemed strange five years ago. Wetzel's Pretzels, Krispy Krunchy Chicken, and Cinnabon are all pushing into c-store aisles, and regional operators are signing up fast.
El Pollo Loco Wants to Give You Concert Tickets, Not Coupons
El Pollo Loco is betting that loyalty members want more than discounts. The fire-grilled chicken chain rolled out a refreshed Loco Rewards program earlier this year, pairing exclusive experiences with app-driven promotions as part of a broader turnaround that's already delivering results. The centerpiece of the relaunch: a partnership with Coca-Cola for a "soccer challenge" giving members a shot at a VIP trip to the 2026 Major League Soccer All-Star Game in Charlotte, N.C., on July 29. The grand prize includes two game tickets, hotel accommodations, flight vouchers, and a $300 Visa gift card. A hundred runner-up winners each receive a $25 El Pollo Loco gift card.
Burger King's Parent Company Plans to Open 1,800 New Restaurants a Year by 2028
Restaurant Brands International has outlined an aggressive expansion strategy. The Miami-based parent of Burger King, Tim Hortons, Popeyes and Firehouse Subs is targeting around 1,800 net new restaurants per year by 2028. The company currently operates more than 33,000 locations across 120-plus countries. In North America, RBI plans to open between 300 and 400 net new restaurants per year in the U.S. and Canada by 2028. Firehouse Subs is expected to lead that growth, contributing roughly half - about 150 to 200 new units annually. Tim Hortons and Popeyes will split the remainder.
Zaxby's Exceeds Growth Expectations With 120 Franchise Commitments
Zaxby's is having the kind of year most restaurant chains can only dream about. The chicken chain started 2025 aiming to sell 100 franchise commitments - a big jump from the roughly 70 sold in 2024. Instead, it's on track to close out the year with 120 commitments. "We're up about 2x, so it's been a good year," said Mike Mettler, chief development officer, during an interview at the recent Restaurant Finance & Development Conference in Las Vegas.
Saucy by KFC Plans Three Grand Openings in Florida
KFC is opening three new Saucy concept locations in the Orlando area between early December and mid-January, roughly a year after launching its first unit. The expansion includes restaurants in Waterford Lakes (opened December 6), Winter Park (opening January 10), and Hunters Creek (opening January 17). Each location will celebrate with grand opening events featuring live DJs, games, and prizes.
After 76 Years, In-N-Out Burger Finally Heads South
California's beloved burger chain is finally making its way to the South. In-N-Out Burger opened its first restaurants east of the Mississippi River - a historic expansion for the 76-year-old company. The chain launched two locations on Dec. 10 in Lebanon and Antioch, Tennessee, both suburbs near Nashville, with a third opening following on Dec. 12 in Murfreesboro. Each restaurant will employ about 75 associates at a starting wage of $17.50 per hour. The new locations feature one drive-thru lane, indoor seating for 74 guests, and covered patios accommodating roughly 30 more diners.
2025 Fast Food Holiday Deals and Menu Items
The holiday season is upon us, and fast-food chains are getting into the spirit with new menu items, merchandise and deals that capture the flavors and fun of this festive time of year. Here’s a list of what’s already available:
Global Food Chains Want a Piece of the American Market
While U.S. restaurants battle rising costs and cautious consumers, international chains are rushing in the opposite direction. They're coming to America at roughly double the pace of a decade ago.
What Is The ‘Castle of Tomorrow’? White Castle Reveals New Prototype
America’s first fast-food hamburger chain is changing how it serves sliders. White Castle showed off its latest store prototype last month just outside downtown Columbus, Ohio. Called the “Castle of Tomorrow,” the restaurant at 1025 Alum Creek Drive mixes high-tech automation with a focus on making guests feel welcome.
National Fast Food Day
National Fast Food Day, held each year on November 16, celebrates its widespread popularity in the modern world. The fast food industry began in the early 1900s, as more restaurants focused on quick service. White Castle, founded in 1921, is often considered the first fast food chain in the United States. Today, fast food has become a global staple, with leading brands like McDonald’s, KFC, and Subway present in nearly every corner of the world.
