Subway up for Sale; Valued at $10 Billion, Reports

Omani fresh fries brand, Seven Fries has tied up with Franchise India to enter Indian market.

Known for its fresh fried potato, it has 8 outlets in Oman and Muscat and is soon entering Iraq by opening six outlets in the region.

The fries are served with toppings like chicken, shrimp and veggies and sauces as per the consumer preferences. One can also opt for customization.

"We will be entering in Indian market with Franchise India as our partner. The brand is expecting to reach 300 outlets in 10 years in India," shared Abdulla Al Mahrooqi, Founder, Seven Fries.

The company is also targeting to open 10 outlets in India by 2025, focusing on cities like; Mumbai, Kerala and Gujarat.

"Our focus is either a café model or a grab and go model in India," he added by pointing that airport, malls and metro stations is their biggest target locations.

They will serve beverages like mojitos, mocktails and much more. 20% of the menu will be localized in India.

Kongsi Tea Bar, a leading Thai bubble tea brand is set to expand its footprint in India, through strategic partnership with Franchise India.

They are dedicated to deliver an authentic bubble tea experience by sourcing the finest ingredients from Thailand and across Southeast Asia.

In India, the brand marked its entry with the successful launch of ten outlets in Bangalore this year. The upcoming outlets will be launched in Franchise model.

Kongsi ensures that each drink reflects the rich heritage of Asian tea culture. From the aromatic Thai Milk Tea, made with real Thai tea leaves, to the classic Taiwanese Bubble Tea, to Thai tea softea served with boba, every beverage is crafted to perfection.

Commenting on their expansion, Deepak Pulipati, Co-Founder & CEO said, “In India, it’s a new concept of Thai bubble tea and its premium brand. The presentation and the packaging are important. The beverage menus are same as we have in abroad and we haven’t Indianized the beverage menu."

Additionally, Kongsi Tea Bar is backed by the Pulipati group, a renowned conglomerate with a proven record of success in various industries.

“We are planning to launch 100 outlets by end of next year and are targeting airports as one of the launch locations. The target audience is Gen-Z and millennial both. Moving further, we want to explore more in target audience," he added.

Other than bubble tea, Kongsi Tea Bar serves bao buns, dimsums and much more.

Smoothie Factory, originally from Texas, Dallas, having presence in 20+ countries with 60 outlets have launched their brand in India with Franchise India as an Exclusive Development Partner.

The brand is expanding rapidly at many locations in India, including; Mumbai, Gujarat and Chennai where it has already open the outlet.

“We are on the healthier side. We use certain brand of blenders for smoothies. Anyone can customize their meals and beverages. Franchise India is helping us with the locations and in expanding," shared Paul Pius, Franchise Director, Smoothie Factory by adding that though they serve non-vegetarian menu in global market but in Indian market, they are focusing on healthy vegetarian menu options. 

The brand is also planning to launch 10 outlets in the upcoming months.

“We are targeting all those who want healthier food options. We don’t use preservatives and food colors. It is safe to consume, and many people are preferring healthy food worldwide, so, be it older people or millennial or Gen-Z or gym enthusiasts, the market will boom worldwide, and it will be a great success all over,” he added.

It is known for its range of Smoothies, juices, frozen yogurt, baguettes, wraps, salads, healthy halo cups, superfood bowls amongst others.

Franks Hot Dog, the globally celebrated gourmet hot dog brand, has officially debuted in India by partnering with FranGlobal, the international franchise development arm of Franchise India.

The brand has unveiled its first Indian outlet today at the bustling Elpro City Square Mall, Pune.

“India is a dynamic market with a deep love for innovative food experiences. Our collaboration with FranGlobal allows us to bring Franks legacy of premium quality and creativity to this exciting new audience, starting with the vibrant city of Pune,” shared Benjamin Attal, CEO of Franks Hot Dog.

This landmark launch not only marks the brand's entry into the Indian market but also establishes Pune as the launch pad for Franks ambitious growth in the country. Known for its vibrant culinary scene and adventurous food lovers, Pune provides the perfect setting for Franks Hot Dog to introduce its innovative, flavor-packed menu that combines global appeal with local tastes.

“This partnership is a testament to India’s growing appetite for global food brands. Pune, with its youthful energy and rich culinary culture, is the perfect city to introduce Franks Hot Dog. With its unique offerings and strong brand story, Franks is poised to revolutionize the QSR space in India,” added Gaurav Marya, Chairman of Franchise India and FranGlobal.

The menu at Franks Hot Dog Pune is designed to wow the city’s food enthusiasts with a diverse selection of signature gourmet hot dogs, loaded fries, and refreshing beverages. From classic flavors to creative twists infused with Indian spices, the offerings promise a taste experience like no other. For Pune’s adventurous palate, options like the Spicy Tandoori Dog and the Masala Loaded Fries add a unique touch while retaining Franks international standards of quality and creativity.

This launch is just the beginning of an ambitious growth plan set out in the master franchise agreement signed earlier this year at the Franchise Fair. Frank’s Hot Dog and FranGlobal aim to establish 300 outlets across India within the next five years, with 100 locations slated to open in the first 18 months.

The Pune outlet’s launch also marks a significant milestone in Franks global expansion strategy, which includes new outlets in Belgium, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and eight locations in France by the end of 2024.
 

Berlin-inspired QSR franchise Doner Shack has entered into a strategic partnership with FranGlobal to launch 150 stores across India.

The brand has announced its entry into the Indian market through a master franchise agreement with FranGlobal, India’s leading franchise solutions firm. 

This landmark deal, involving a 150-store licence agreement, marks Doner Shack’s largest market expansion to date, solidifying its position as a fast-growing global QSR brand.

“We are thrilled to bring Doner Shack to India, with plans to open 150 stores in the next five years. This collaboration aligns perfectly with the growing demand for quick and affordable dining options across the country,” shared Gaurav Marya, Chairman, FranGlobal.

The partnership with FranGlobal comes as part of Doner Shack’s accelerated international growth strategy. Following plans to expand into the US, the brand is now setting its sights on India, one of the world’s most dynamic consumer markets. 

With the Indian QSR market projected to grow from $25.46 billion in 2024 to $38.71 billion by 2029, the timing is perfect for Doner Shack’s entry.

“Gaurav’s extensive experience in the Indian franchise industry is incredibly valuable for us. This deal is a significant milestone for Doner Shack, and we’re excited to see the first of many restaurants opening soon in the region,” added Sanj Sanghera, Co-founder of Doner Shack.

Targeting a core customer demographic aged 18 to 34, Doner Shack is well-positioned to cater to India’s youthful and vibrant population, where 65% of citizens are under 35. The increasing trend of dining out, rising disposable incomes, and the preference for convenient, affordable food options make India an ideal market for Doner Shack’s unique offerings.

Devyani International Limited (DIL), one of the largest KFC and Pizza Hut franchise owner in India has reported a consolidated net loss of Rs 4.92 crore in the second quarter (Q2) that ended September 30, 2024.

DIL also posted a consolidated net profit (year-on-year) of Rs 35.82 crore in the same period of the last fiscal.

However, it has reported an increase of 49.23 per cent in consolidated revenue from operations at Rs 1,222.15 crore in Q2 FY25 as against the revenue of Rs 819.47 crore in Q2 FY24.

The company's total expenses also rose to Rs 1,230.89 crore in Q2 FY25 as compared to the total expenses of Rs 793.04 crore in Q2 FY24, shared the release.

DIL also announced that it has secured exclusive master franchise rights for three modern QSR brands - TeaLive, New York Fries and SANOOK KITCHEN. 

According to the release, as DIL’s existing brands continue to drive store growth and introduce exciting new menu offerings, DIL broadens its offerings to include a new category of modern food & beverage choices by expanding its portfolio of brands. 

“We are happy to welcome new brands to DIL family, catering to youth categories such as handcrafted tea, fresh cut fries and authentic Thai & Asian cuisine. The new partnerships reflect our commitment to bringing diverse, high-quality contemporary food & beverages brands to our customers, while driving sustainable growth for DIL. With exclusive rights for these brands in India, DIL is consolidating its strategy of ‘FOOD ON THE GO’ and ‘HOUSE OF BRANDS’,” shared Ravi Jaipuria, Non-Executive Chairman, Devyani International Limited.

Tealive, a Malaysian tea and beverage chain is Southeast Asia’s largest and most innovative handcrafted tea brand, with over 900 outlets worldwide.

New York Fries (NYF), franchised by Recipe Unlimited is Canada's largest multi-channel restaurant company, with over 19 select quality brands. NYF is a premium quick-service concept, known for its iconic fresh-cut french-fries, loaded fries and hot dogs.

SANOOK KITCHEN is Singapore's leading and most popular brand, specializes in authentic Thai and Asian cuisine, offering an exceptional dining experience for food lover.

“We remain committed to our investments across DIL’s brand portfolio to broaden our reach, engage target consumers, and seize growth opportunities across the country. While we recognize the current subdued environment in the QSR industry, we are confident that the current headwinds are transient in nature,” he added.

DIL also opened 85 net new store in Q2, 2025.

American casual dining chain, TGI Fridays, said on Saturday that it has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection after fighting with prolonged financial challenges. 

In a filing with the U.S. bankruptcy court for the Northern District of Texas, the company listed both assets and liabilities in the range of $100 million to $500 million, according to reports.

Privately owned by TriArtisan Capital Advisors, TGI Fridays has been a beloved dining destination since its inaugural bar opened in Manhattan, New York, in 1965.

TGI Fridays, owner and operator of 39 domestic "Thank God it's Friday!" restaurants, said it maintains operations across its corporate-owned 'happy hour' dining places in the U.S., adding that it has secured a financing commitment to support operations.

“The primary driver of our financial challenges resulted from COVID-19 and our capital structure. This restructuring will allow our go-forward restaurants to proceed with an optimized corporate infrastructure that enables them to reach their full potential,” shared Rohit Manocha, Executive Chairman, TGI Fridays.

After the bankruptcy announcement on Saturday, the Dallas-based chain said normal operations will continue in all of the franchise locations both in the U.S. and internationally.

TGI Fridays Franchisor, which owns the brand and intellectual property, has franchised TGI Fridays to 56 franchisees in 41 countries. The restaurant operator said those stores are independently owned and are not part of the Chapter 11 process.

McDonald's Corporation today announced results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2024. 

The QSR chain saw 1.5 per cent decrease in global comparable sales, with 0.3 per cent increase in U.S sale.

The International Operated Markets segment decreased 2.1%, International Developmental Licensed Markets segment decreased 3.5%. However, the consolidated revenues increased 3% (2% in constant currencies).

“We will stay laser-focused on providing an unparalleled experience with simple, everyday value and affordability that our consumers can count on as they continue to be mindful about their spending,” said Chairman and CEO Chris Kempczinski. 

According to him, the burger chain will continue to follow their Accelerating the Arches playbook to drive long-term growth globally and win in this environment.

“Our strategy is working, and we continue to focus on providing compelling value, generating menu excitement, and using the power of our marketing to capture market share and drive long-term growth,” added Kempczinski.

The company also declared a 6 per cent increase in its quarterly cash dividend to $1.77 per share.

The Wendy's Company has announced the appointment of John Min as the Company's Chief Legal Officer and Secretary and Mary Greenlee as Senior Vice President, U.S. Operations. 

These appointments represent the continued evolution of the Company's leadership structure to drive accountability and accelerate growth. Min will report to President and Chief Executive Officer, Kirk Tanner, and Greenlee will report to President, U.S., Abigail Pringle. Min succeeds E.J. Wunsch, who was appointed as Wendy's President, International in June 2024.

"I'm pleased to welcome John and Mary to the Wendy's team. John's proven track record of managing complex commercial transactions, his extensive background in legal strategy and corporate governance and his unique global experience will be invaluable as we look to further solidify our development plans. Mary brings significant experience managing franchise relationships, generating significant market expansion and driving innovation from her career in the QSR industry, which align perfectly with our growth pillars,” shared Tanner.

Min most recently served as Senior Vice President, Chief Legal Officer and Secretary of Kellanova following the separation of Kellogg Company into two companies. He brings two decades of corporate legal experience and a wealth of expertise in leading high-performing teams, providing strategic legal counsel and managing compliance risks in diverse markets. Min will oversee Wendy's global legal department, playing a pivotal role in guiding Wendy's legal strategy and operations, as well as managing global risk and compliance functions. 

Greenlee has over 25 years of experience in the restaurant and beverage industries, bringing a deep understanding of franchise systems and strategic thinking to elevate performance. Greenlee will oversee the performance of Wendy's company and franchise operations to support the brand's strategic growth initiatives, including continuing to drive the restaurant economic model and building out the Company's U.S. footprint to ensure it reaches its full growth potential. Greenlee has held significant operational roles over her career, most recently serving as Vice President of U.S. Field Operations at Subway and Director of Business Development and General Manager of Coca-Cola Freestyle Strategy for Wendy's. Greenlee holds a B.A. in History from the University of Louisiana Monroe.

"This is an exciting opportunity to join an iconic brand," said Min. "I am honored to join such a talented team and contribute my experience to uphold and enhance Wendy's high standards of legal and ethical practices to support the Company's continued growth on a global scale."

"Wendy's has consistently set a standard for quality and creativity in the QSR industry, and I've long admired the brand's commitment to value and innovation," said Greenlee. "I look forward to working closely with the team to drive strategic growth, enhance operations and continue delivering an exceptional customer experience."

RI EXCLUSIVE: Bagelstein, a beloved French brand, known for its authentic bagels and vibrant, quirky atmosphere has entered India.

The group has partnered with International franchisee firm FranGlobal to enter and expand its operation in India.

“We have joined hands with Bagelstein as a master franchisee for its India operations. The brand has a great market in Europe, especially in France and is a very scalable concept as a brand,” shared Venus Barak, CEO, FranGlobal.

The group is planning to open over 100 stores in the first five years, targeting major metros including, Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata and Pune to start with.

“India is such a big, important country that we didn’t wanted to do it bad that’s why we took time to enter India,” shared Thierry Veil, Founder & CEO, Bagelstein who is looking for aspirational people as partner willing to scale this business.

“The demand and awareness for good quality bakery products, coffee and cafes are on the rise in these cities and hence our focus is on metros,” added Barak by pointing that Bagelstein is not just a breakfast brand rather is an-all day café that has got a major part of its business coming from the lunch.

Based in Strasbourg, France, Bagelstein was founded in 2011 and is known for its freshly baked bagels with a variety of delicious fillings, it has become a favorite spot for bagel enthusiasts across France and is one of the biggest bagel chain outside US with 100+outlets in Europe, majority of which are in France. 

Global fast food chain Burger King has lost a 13-year legal battle against a namesake eatery in Pune, with a commercial court in the district dismissing the company’s trademark infringement lawsuit.

In an August 16 order, District judge Sunil Vedpathak, said the city-based ‘Burger King’ eatery was operational before the global chain entered the Indian market and that the latter failed to prove trademark infringement.

The Court dismissed the 2011 lawsuit filed by Burger King Corporation represented by Pankaj Pahuja, which sought a permanent injunction against trademark infringement, along with monetary damages of ₹20 lakh, from the eatery’s owners, Anahita and Shapoor Irani. 

The Court noted that the Pune-based restaurant had been using the ‘Burger King’ name since 1991-92, while the global giant entered India only in 2014.  

“Defendants have been using the trade name for their restaurant since about 1992. The pleadings put forth by the plaintiff are totally silent about how customers have been confused due to use of trademark Burger King by defendants to their restaurant,” it read.

Founded in 1954 by James McLamore and David Edgerton, Burger King Corporation oversees a global network of 13,000 fast food restaurants in over 100 countries. The first Burger King franchise in Asia was launched in 1982, and today there are more than 1,200 locations across the continent. When the company expanded into the Indian market in 2014 with first outlet in New Delhi, and later to Mumbai, and Pune, they found that a restaurant with the same name had already been operating since 2008.

The Irani family opposed the lawsuit, alleging it was filed with mala fide intentions to suppress legitimate businesses. They said apart from the name Burger King, there was absolutely no similarity between the plaintiff’s trademark and their own shop name. They also sought ₹20 lakh in compensation for the harassment and intimidating calls they faced following the suit. However, the Court refused to grant them monetary relief, citing a lack of evidence beyond oral testimony to support their claims.

In its defence, Burger King Corporation highlighted its global presence, with more than 13,000 restaurants worldwide, and argued that the ‘Burger King’ trademark has gained significant reputation and goodwill. However, the Court found no basis for the company’s claims against the Pune-based eatery.

QSR chain Popeyes® has made significant changes in its leadership role and has announced the appointment of Bart LaCount as the new Chief Marketing Officer of Popeyes US & Canada and Matt Rubin as Chief Digital Officer of Popeyes US & Canada.

LaCount will lead all marketing efforts focused on growing traffic, and accelerating sales growth as part of the Popeyes Easy to Love strategy. This new hire comes following the promotion of previous CMO & now President of Popeyes, Jeff Klein.  

“We are excited to welcome Bart to the Popeyes Family,” said Jeff Klein, President of Popeyes North America. “Bart brings an incredibly well-rounded marketing background to this role as we look to deepen brand relevance in communities where we are loved and expand relevance where Popeyes should be better known –all as part of the the strategic plan built with and endorsed by our franchisees.” said Klein.

LaCount joins the organization from PepsiCo where he was Vice President of International Beverages Marketing leading hydration and energy portfolios for international markets including Gatorade and Sting. He joins Popeyes with more than 20 years of experience, spending majority of his career in various leadership roles in marketing at PepsiCo, and prior to that, Ford Motor Company.

Matt Rubin will serve as Chief Digital Officer in the US and Canada. Rubin will oversee the Popeyes digital and technology teams guiding the digital growth strategy, which is centered on creating the best guest experience. He took on the responsibility of the restaurant technology team a few months ago in addition to his digital scope and has proven the effectiveness of combining the power of both teams under one leader. Rubin has been with Restaurant Brands International for the past 8+ years holding various roles across the organization domestically and internationally across a wide range of roles spanning marketing, development and digital functions.

“Matt is a proven leader at Popeyes with a track record of driving results. I am excited that Matt is taking on this expanded role and will be able to innovate even more to create a modern digital ecosystem across Popeyes.” said Jeff Klein, President of Popeyes US & Canada.

Founded in New Orleans in 1972, Popeyes® has over 50 years of history and culinary tradition. The chain’s passion for its Louisiana heritage and flavorful authentic food has allowed Popeyes® to become one of the world’s largest chicken quick service restaurants with over 4,000 restaurants in the U.S. and around the world.
 

McDonald’s collectibles are as iconic as they come. From toys to vintage posters, plates, merch, games and trading cards, these keepsakes are more than just collector’s items. Now, for a limited time, McDonald’s is introducing the global Collector's Edition with new collectible cups that inspire fans to relive those special moments and create nostalgic joy for a new generation.

Available in more than 30 countries, the Collector’s Edition cups, in embossed glass or tritan plastic, put a fresh spin on classic McDonald’s keepsakes from the brand, Coca-Cola, Mattel, Universal, Sanrio or TY Beanie Babies. 

Each cup spotlights iconic collectibles from different eras that our fans cherish, like the Grimace Mug in 1976, Pet Lovin’ Barbie in 1999, Shrek from ‘Shrek the Third’ in 2007 and more. Inspired by a variety of iconic characters and collabs, now is your chance to grab these reimagined designs among many others – this time, emblazoned on McDonald’s brand-new collectible cups.

“There’s an undeniable thrill when you snag that one elusive McDonald’s collectible or the final piece to complete your collection. We’re bringing back some of our most-loved keepsakes with a twist, giving fans a memory that they can hold in their hands,” said Morgan Flatley, Global Chief Marketing Officer and Head of New Business Ventures at McDonald's.

Papa John’s International, Inc. has announced the appointment of Todd Penegor as President and Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. 

Penegor has also joined the Company’s Board of Directors. 

He succeeds Ravi Thanawala, who has served as Interim CEO since March 2024 and will continue in his role as Chief Financial Officer.

Penegor, most recently President and Chief Executive Officer of The Wendy’s Company, is a proven leader with 20 years of experience in the restaurant and consumer goods industries. During his tenure as President and Chief Executive Officer of Wendy’s, the company achieved substantial growth in sales, earnings and new restaurant counts, including the expansion of Wendy’s footprint to more than 7,000 restaurants worldwide and the 12th consecutive year of same-restaurant sales growth, among other achievements. 

“Todd’s appointment as President and Chief Executive Officer successfully concludes an extensive search to identify a proven leader who has the experience, skills and vision to achieve the full potential of the Papa Johns brand and accelerate growth,” said Christopher Coleman, Chair of the Papa Johns Board of Directors. 

“I am honored to serve as Chief Executive Officer of Papa Johns and work with the Board, our dedicated team members and franchisees to usher in the Company’s next chapter,” said Penegor. 

He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting, and a Master of Business Administration in Finance from Michigan State University.
 

EYM Group that’s one of the largest Pizza Hut franchisee in the Texas and other neigbouring areas has traded lawsuits with its franchisor and closed 15 restaurants has filed for bankruptcy in Texas.

EYM Pizza operates close to140 locations in Indiana, Illinois, Georgia, Wisconsin and Texas has filed for Chapter 11 debt protection in a handful of filings in Texas on Monday, reported Restaurant Business Online.

According to reports, Pizza Hut sued EYM, seeking to terminate its franchise agreement over underperformance and not paying its royalties on time.

Started by Eduardo Diaz, a former president of McDonald’s Mexico, in 2015 EYM Group started purchasing Pizza Huts in several deals in various states. 

According to the report, EYM owes Pizza Hut more than $2 million and $21 million to Manufacturers Bank. The franchisee is being sued by Pizza Hut but blames the parent company for its financial woes, saying that the chain hasn't updated its menus or app to help it compete in the market.

EVM also operate Denny’s, Pizza Hut, KFC, and Panera Bread restaurants in locations.

The Wendy's Company has announced the opening of their 150th store in Kolkata, India. 

With this addition, Wendy’s will be now available in 31 cities of India and they are planning for more outlets.  

“Super excited to announce the opening of our 150th location in India! Rebel Foods, The Wendy's Company. This milestone reflects our team's dedication and the trust our customers place in us. Thank you for being a part of our journey. Here's too many more,” shared Anburaj J, GM- Wendy’s India at Rebel Foods on Linkedin.

It was in February last year that Rebel Foods has acquired Wendy’s in India and got an exclusive franchise rights for Wendy’s offline business in India.

Known for their square hamburger patties on circular buns, sea salt fries, and the Frosty, soft ice cream mixed with starches, Wendy’s food menu consists primarily of hamburgers, chicken sandwiches, and french fries. The American international fast food chain is growing rapidly in India.

“Whether you're in Amritsar or Raipur, Thirupur or Mysore, Surat or Nashik, we are there to serve you! Wendy's is available in 31 cities of India and many more coming soon,” he added.

Rebel Foods operates food brands such as Faasos, Behrouz Biryani, Ovenstory Pizza, Mandarin Oak, The Good Bowl, Slay Coffee via 450 kitchens in over 70 cities.
 

The renowned Korean headquartered pizza chain, GOPIZZA, has inaugurated its newest outlet at Pragati Nagar, Hyderabad. 

“GOPIZZA INDIA is thrilled to announce the opening of yet another outlet in Hyderabad. The newest destination for Korean Pizza lovers is now at Pragati Nagar,” read the Linkedin post of the brand.

GOPIZZA will present an array of authentic Korean delights, featuring signature Korean pizzas like Jonmataeng Volcano and Creamy Pizzas.

These pizzas are blended with traditional spices with a twist. Customers can relish the flavors of traditional Korean Ramyun and the indulgence of Cheese Ramyun.

The starter menu kicks off with options like Korean Yangnyum Spicy Chicken Wings, Pops, and Spicy Wedges.

GOPIZZA has also introduces its l Fire Cream Pastas, accompanied by the lively beats of K-Pop tunes playing at every store.

The brand is targeting at opening over 100 outlets by the end of 2024 in different regions of India and surpass the milestone of 500 stores worldwide.

With GOPIZZA’s dedication to innovation and quality, the brand is strategically enhancing its integration of AI and robotics in all of its kitchens to ensure unparalleled quality and efficiency. 

Presently, operating successfully in Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Chennai, GOPIZZA has ambitious plans to expand its footprint to additional cities including Kochi, Pune, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, and Delhi in the coming months. Furthermore, on a global scale, the brand is poised for expansion into new markets, with upcoming ventures planned in the United States, Philippines, Vietnam, and the Middle East.
 

Parent company of Carl’s Jr and Hardee’s, CKE Restaurant Holdings, has appointed Justin Falciola as its chief technology and growth officer.

In this new role, Justin Falciola will align business goals with information technology, digital strategy and operations, as well as guide the implementation of new technologies and support the digital evolution of loyalty, first-party and third-party digital channels.

"We are excited to welcome Justin to the organization," said CKE Chief Executive Officer Max Wetzel. "As technology continues to shape and change the QSR industry, I am confident that his extensive record of success leading high-performing analytics, digital and IT teams will help both Carl's Jr. and Hardee's enable digital growth,” he added.

He comes to CKE from Papa John's International where he served as Chief Insights and Technology Officer since 2018. Prior to that, Falciola served in roles at Humana, Fifth Third Bank and JPMorgan Chase. Falciola received his bachelor's degree in information systems from Rutgers University.

Earlier this year, CKE Restaurants announced the separation of the Carl's Jr. and Hardee's brand and introduced a leadership structure with three teams, each led by a president driving execution of strategic growth plans. Advancing digital is a major focus of the company's growth strategy.

"It is an exciting time to be joining CKE Restaurants," said CKE Chief Technology & Growth Officer Justin Falciola. "I look forward to leveraging my experience to help Carl's Jr. and Hardee's reach their unique business goals, evolve the team and guest experience through technology and ultimately grow these two iconic brands,” he mentioned.

Together with its franchisees, Carl's Jr. operates more than 1,000 restaurants across the U.S. and has a presence in 24 countries worldwide. Hardees operates approximately 1,600 restaurants across the U.S. and 13 countries worldwide.

McDonald’s India - North and East has launched latest Chicken Surprise burger during the summer holidays. 

A pocket-friendly delight, this delectable burger is set to tantalize taste buds across the region at an introductory price of Rs. 65/-* for the a-la-carte (original price Rs. 69/-). 

McDonald’s Chicken Surprise meal is available as part of McDeal value meal starting @99/- that includes French fries and coke, offering customers an incredible value and satisfying flavourful meal experience.

“At McDonald's India - North & East, we are passionate about understanding evolving tastes and needs of our customers through our menu innovations. We are committed to offer exciting customer centric, high quality McDonald’s food and experiences. Our new addition - Chicken Surprise burger offers an irresistible choice for chicken lovers with flavourful, juicy chicken taste and the signature crunch they love,” shared Rajeev Ranjan, Managing Director, McDonald’s India - North and East.

Tastefully crafted with high quality ingredients, Chicken Surprise burger comes with a succulent crispy golden chicken patty nestled between a soft, toasted bun and generously topped with chipotle sauce, shredded onion. Customers also have the choice to personalize their burger by opting for whole wheat bun, double patties, and additional toppings of their choice such as lettuce, tomato, and cheese slice to elevate their dining experience. 

Customers can enjoy it across McDonald’s North and East India restaurants (except pure-vegetarian restaurants) or through McDelivery (Swiggy, Zomato or Magic Pin), or through takeaway, or drive-thru.

Subway®, one of the world's largest restaurant brands, is rolling out the next phase of its digital experience across the UK, Finland and Germany to deliver added convenience for guests, create more efficiencies for franchisees and their team members, and help drive traffic and sales.

The restaurant chain is introducing interactive self-serve kiosks across the three markets, with plans to add hundreds more throughout the region by the end of the year. 

The kiosks – powered by Vita Mojo’s end-to-end digital order management technology – are connected to kitchen display systems and order ready screens to help improve order speed, quality and accuracy. 

Many of the digitally connected restaurants also feature modern digital menu boards, which highlight special menu items and the latest promotions and offers, while adding an element of energy to the environment.

In addition, Subway is rolling out a new app with mobile ordering, and is relaunching its loyalty program, Subway Rewards®. Members of the refreshed Subway Rewards program will earn points on every purchase and can easily convert their points to Subway Cash® to be used on any of their favorite menu items, with no minimum spend – a unique offering within the QSR industry for the region. 

“Europe is leading Subway’s global digital evolution by providing guests with an elevated in-restaurant and online experience and more ways for them to order their favorite subs,” said Carrie Walsh, President of Subway EMEA. 

Restaurant Brands International Inc. has announced that it has completed its previously announced acquisition of all issued and outstanding shares of Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc. ("Carrols") (formerly NASDAQ: TAST) that are not already held by RBI or its affiliates for $9.55 per share in an all cash transaction, or an aggregate total enterprise value of approximately $1.0 billion.

With the close of the acquisition, RBI adds the largest Burger King® ("BK") franchisee in the United States to its portfolio as part of the Company's Reclaim the Flame plan. 

As previously announced, the Company will invest a further $500M to accelerate the reimaging of more than 600 Carrols restaurants before refranchising the majority of the acquired portfolio to new or existing smaller franchise operators over the next seven years.

In addition, on May 16, 2024, subsidiaries of RBI entered into an amendment to their existing Credit Agreement (the "2024 Amendment") increasing the existing term loan B facility with $5.2 billion outstanding to a $5.9 billion term loan B facility (the "Term Loan B Facility") under the same terms as the existing Term Loan B Facility. The proceeds from the increase in the Term Loan B Facility were used along with cash on hand to complete the acquisition of Carrols, including the payoff of its credit agreement and the redemption and discharge of its outstanding 5.875% senior notes due 2029.

Sbarro, known for its Original New York Style Slices and Strombolis, announced the appointment of Mario Bojorquez as its new President, North America.

The addition of Bojorquez marks an exciting stage for Sbarro as it expands its leadership team by adding a proven industry leader to support its rapid domestic growth.

In his role as President, North America, Bojorquez will work closely with the Senior Team to focus on supporting company restaurants and franchisees on business expansion, operational execution, and brand growth.

"Mario is a talented restaurant executive with a proven track record of results and a solid understanding of franchising in our industry," said David Karam, Sbarro CEO and Chairman of the Board."

Mario spent the last 11 years with Restaurant Brands International (RBI), including the last four as Head of Asia-Pacific Operations for Burger King, Popeyes, Tim Hortons and Firehouse Subs, based in Singapore. Before joining RBI, Mario was himself a restaurant entrepreneur, co-founding a sandwich concept in Miami.

"I am honored to be joining an iconic brand with a rich legacy of serving handmade, freshly prepared, quality products. I couldn't be more excited about the opportunity to work with David and the team to help continue growing Sbarro by supporting our company operators and franchisees and bringing the best food to our guests; every shift, every day," Mario said.

Sbarro continues its record setting growth, opening more than two hundred new restaurants in the last two years including in new countries such as Colombia, Panama, Poland, Denmark, and North Macedonia.

The Nando’s founders always had the vision of sharing the best flame-grilled PERi-PERi chicken with the rest of the world. Across 5 continents, 22 countries and with more than 1200 restaurants, it is now time to make the table bigger and share this saucy secret with more of India.

Nando’s has entered into a joint venture partnership with K Hospitality Corp. A group with an incredible track record for growth and success over the last 50 years, and has today become India’s largest privately held food and beverage company.

“Selling spicy, flavourful food to the food-loving nation that invented it is no easy feat. But with their deep market knowledge, we are incredibly excited to welcome K Hospitality Corp as our joint venture partner into the family ”, said John Sikiotis, Nando’s CEO for Licensed Markets and India.

Together with K Hospitality Corp, Nando’s India has some serious expansion ambitions, with plans to open as many as 150 restaurants in new cities over the next decade.

The newest hotspot is planned for Hyderabad, the first in the city, in just a few short weeks.

“As brands and businesses, both partners have a lot in common, which not only includes an insatiable taste for Nando’s signature flame-grilled PERi-PERi chicken but also an equally strong passion for hospitality and people. We look forward to scaling up Nando’s presence across multiple cities in India over the coming decade”, shared Karan Kapur, Executive Director for K Hospitality Corp.

With both businesses being family owned, there is a shared value system and a belief that people make the difference.

“It’s not just about the chicken, it’s also very much about the people who make the chicken” said Sameer Bhasin, Nando’s CEO for India.

Papa John's International Inc has promoted Kurt Milburn to Chief Supply Chain Officer, succeeding Shane Hutchins, who will retire after 26 years at Papa Johns, where he served as Chief Supply Chain Officer since October 2018. 

Hutchins will continue to work with Papa Johns as a consultant on special projects and to ensure a smooth transition.

Milburn joined Papa Johns in 2022 as Vice President of Supply Chain Operations and since that time has taken on additional responsibility to include engineering and operations support functions as well as the International Supply Chain organization. 

Prior to Papa Johns, Milburn served as Senior Vice President of Supply Chain Operations at Scotts Miracle-Gro Company. He also held engineering and supply chain management positions at General Electric and General Motors.

“I’m thrilled for Kurt to become our next Chief Supply Chain Officer, as he brings deep expertise in supply chain and engineering from large, complex organizations and strong knowledge of our organization having led Papa Johns Food Service operations over the last two years. I look forward to his leadership as we continue to evolve our supply chain to meet the demands of our growing business,” said interim CEO Ravi Thanawala. “On behalf of the entire Papa Johns team, I would like to thank Shane for leading us through some of our biggest supply chain transformations and look forward to continuing to leverage his experience in other capacities.”

In the role of Chief Supply Chain Officer, Milburn will lead Papa Johns Food Service (PJFS), which oversees the Company’s Quality Control Center Operations, Supplier Management and Quality Assurance.

He will report to interim CEO Ravi Thanawala and will serve on the Papa Johns executive leadership team.

McDonald’s South and West operator Westlife FoodWorld has appointed Hrushit Shah as its chief financial officer (CFO), with effect from May 9, 2024, it shared in a regulatory filing today.

Shah will take over the role from Saurabh Bhudolia who is transitioning out of the company to pursue entrepreneurial opportunities.

“On behalf of Westlife, I express our gratitude to our departing CFO, Saurabh Bhudolia, whose dedication and financial expertise have greatly contributed to our company's growth. His efforts have been crucial in strengthening our financial resilience and strategy. As we move forward, we are grateful for the strong foundation Saurabh has helped build,” said Saurabh Kalra, MD, Westlife Foodworld.

In his new role, Shah who comes with over 18 years of experience, will work closely with the leadership team to devise financial strategies and will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of financial management to ensure the company’s financial success.

Before joining Westlife, Shah was VP of finance at Pidilite Industries and has also worked with organizations such as the Landmark Group, Godrej Consumer Products, and Marico.

Pizza Hut has hired ex. Chief Marketing Officer at Wendy’s, Carl Loredo as president of Pizza Hut US.

He will be reporting to Aaron Powell, Pizza Hut Division CEO, effective June 3, shared a press release.

Loredo's previously served as global chief marketing officer at The Wendy's Company for eight years. Loredo also served as VP of Account Services at The Marketing Arm (a part of Omnicom Media Group).

"Carl comes to Pizza Hut with a strong track record of positioning brands for success and delivering results in highly competitive markets. He is adept at helping brands show up in novel and authentic ways at the right intersection of customer need and culture," shared Powell.

"I love a good story, and Pizza Hut's journey from one restaurant in Wichita, Kansas, to global cultural icon status is tremendously inspiring," Loredo said in the release. "It is an honor to lead Pizza Hut's U.S. business and be a part of taking this beloved brand forward for the next generation of customers. I am eager to partner with Aaron and the leadership team, our best-in-class franchisees and our talented team members around the country to unlock growth for this powerhouse brand."
 

Krispy Kreme Inc. has announced an agreement with restaurant group ISH Kreme to bring one of the world’s most loved sweet treats to Germany.

Krispy Kreme® will offer its iconic, fresh doughnuts to German consumers through a network of Krispy Kreme shops starting in Berlin.

“We are excited to expand into Germany as it has been a priority market for us, offering substantial growth with more than 3,000 points of access,” said Raphael Duvivier, Krispy Kreme Chief Development Officer. “Additionally, we are very pleased to partner with ISH leader Ilkem Sahin and the very experienced ISH team to grow in the market,” he added.

Krispy Kreme’s omni-channel fresh business, driven by a capital-efficient hub and spoke model, supports broad expansion in the US and international markets. Each Krispy Kreme doughnut is made fresh daily, hand-crafted, and hand-decorated to ensure the melt-in-your-mouth taste that has become synonymous with the brand.

This news follows the successful December 2023 Krispy Kreme launch in Paris. The company anticipates launching in Germany in early 2025. ISH manages 300 KFC and Pizza Hut restaurants throughout Germany.

Krispy Kreme operates in more than 35 countries through its unique network of fresh doughnut shops, partnerships with leading retailers, and a rapidly growing Ecommerce and delivery business with more than 14,000 fresh points of access.

QSR chain Carl’s Jr is bringing the cult-favorite menu item EI Diablo, featuring two charbroiled all-beef patties, two strips of bacon, crispy Jalapeño POPPERS® Bites, melty pepperjack cheese and fiery habanero ranch sauce on a seeded bun, will rejoin an updated menu as a permanent addition.

El Diablo is an iconic representation of the Carl's Jr. brand, packed with outrageous ingredients and audacious personality. 

Its return to the menu permanently represents the brand's commitment to flavor and coincides with the debut of a new menu architecture that streamlines visuals for ease of ordering and allows guests to customize burgers according to the experience they're craving.

"We are focusing squarely on our big, bold and irresistibly craveable signature burgers. With this menu, we're democratizing flavor. No longer will our guests be confined to combo numbers or limited time offers – they'll be able to customize the flavors and experiences at different price points," said Jack Volpi, senior brand manager and menu transformation project lead.

The new menu represents the brand's emphasis on customizable, irresistible flavor. With this redesign, Carl's Jr. guests can experience their favorite burgers with more choices – such as premium options for popular burgers, like Famous Star® and Western Bacon Cheeseburger®, now available with an Angus patty.

Together with its franchisees, Carl's Jr. operates more than 1,000 restaurants across the U.S. and has a presence in 24 countries worldwide.

World’s largest pizza chain, Domino's Pizza Inc. (NYSE: DPZ) has brought Carryout Tips. 

Now the largest pizza company in the world, known for its value innovation, is launching You Tip, We Tip – a promotion that tips customers who tip their delivery drivers, beginning April 29.

"Domino's drivers have been hustling to deliver hot, delicious pizzas since 1960, and we love that customers have been tipping them for their great service since day one," said Kate Trumbull, Domino's senior vice president and chief brand officer.

She also pointed that, these days, everywhere you go, there's a tip screen. “The pressure to tip is real, even when no extra service is provided. So, we decided to flip the script and show our appreciation by tipping customers back,” she added.

The company said "You Tip, We Tip" is the first program of its kind among major quick-service restaurant chains.

Founded in 1960, Domino's Pizza is the largest pizza company in the world, with a significant business in both delivery and carryout pizza. It ranks among the world's top public restaurant brands with a global enterprise of more than 20,500 stores in over 90 markets.
 

KFC Global has appointed Alex Barsk (she/her) as their new Chief Financial Officer (CFO), reporting directly to Sabir Sami, KFC Global Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective June 1, 2024.

In this role, Alex will be responsible for leading KFC’s global Finance function, ensuring continued growth and profitability for the KFC business. 

She will also oversee KFC’s Financial Planning Analysis and Strategy functions.

Alex joins us from their sister brand, Pizza Hut, where she most recently served as Global Chief Financial Officer. 

Alex joined Pizza Hut in 2015 and has held leadership roles across Strategy, Finance, Development and Supply Chain. Her leadership has had a positive impact in driving Pizza Hut’s growth agenda. Alex is a heart-led coach, high-performing culture builder and a true global citizen. 

Prior to Yum!, Alex was an Engagement Manager at Strategy& (formerly Booz & Company) in their London and Dallas offices. She also spent several years in London with Cambridge Associates, a global investment advisory firm. 

Alex holds a B.A. from Brown University and an MBA from London Business School.
 

McDonald's Corporation will purchase all 225 restaurant locations in Israel from franchisee Alonyal Limited, owned by Omri Padan.
According to the release, Omri Padan, CEO and owner of Alonyal Limited, announced that an agreement to sell Alonyal to McDonald’s Corporation has been signed. 

Alonyal, which owns and operates McDonald’s restaurants in Israel, started the McDonald’s brand journey in Israel more than 30 years ago and has grown the business to 225 restaurants and more than 5,000 employees. 

Upon completion of the transaction, McDonald’s Corporation will own Alonyal Limited’s restaurants and operations, and employees will be retained on equivalent terms.

“For more than 30 years, Alonyal Limited has been proud to bring the Golden Arches to Israel and serve our communities. We’ve grown the brand to be the leading and most successful restaurant chain in Israel and are grateful to our management, employees, suppliers, and customers who made this possible. We are encouraged by what the future holds,” said Omri Padan, CEO and owner of Alonyal Limited.

The agreement is subject to certain conditions, with closing anticipated in the coming months.

“We thank Alonyal Limited for building the McDonald’s business and brand in Israel over the past 30 years. McDonald’s remains committed to the Israeli market and to ensuring a positive employee and customer experience in the market going forward,” said Jo Sempels, President of International Developmental Licensed Markets at McDonald’s Corporation.

Ace investor Ashish Kacholia has acquired a 17.2% stake in the popular Indian burger chain Jumboking.

Kacholia's share now makes him the second-largest shareholder in the company. The exact amount of the investment has not been disclosed, but it was made through a secondary market transaction following the exit of Triton Fund, an earlier investor in Jumboking, in 2018.

According to market experts, the transaction is estimated to be valued between ₹70 crore and ₹80 crore, placing the valuation of Jumboking at around ₹400-500 crore.

Jumboking that operates 170 stores across Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad and Pune, recorded sales of ₹110 crore in the last fiscal year.

With these figures, it became the third-largest burger chain in India, after McDonald's and Burger King.

Founded by Dheeraj Gupta and Reeta Gupta in August 23, 2001, Jumboking drew inspiration from the successful fast-food business models of international giants like McDonald's and Burger King. The company has established delivery partnerships with popular platforms like Swiggy and Zomato to cater to out-of-store orders.

Jumboking offers a vegetarian menu featuring a variety of burgers, thick shakes, softies and fries, catering to the preferences of college students and young professionals. In 2023, the company introduced a program called JK Burger Rewards to enhance customer loyalty. Jumboking is focused on delivering top-notch execution and exceptional customer service.

"Jumboking represents a promising opportunity in the QSR (Quick Service Restaurant) segment with its commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction," shared Kacholia.

Dheeraj Gupta, the Founder of Jumboking, expressed his delight in having Kacholia on board, highlighting the company's ambitious goal of expanding to 1000 stores while maintaining profitable growth.

Pradyumna Dalmia of Triton Fund also expressed satisfaction with their association with Jumboking, anticipating promising returns for incoming investors. With Kacholia's strategic investment and the company's strong growth trajectory, Jumboking is poised to further solidify its position in India's competitive fast-food market.

Kamats Restaurants had initiated legal proceedings against the unauthorized use of its brand name at Dapoli, opposite the bus stand. 

The company became aware of this unauthorized activity following numerous complaints from concerned customers. Upon thorough investigation, including examination of photographic evidence, it was evident that a restaurant operating under the Kamats name in Dapoli was not affiliated with the genuine Kamats Restaurants chain.

In response, Kamats Restaurants promptly issued a legal notice to the unauthorized establishment and pursued the matter through legal channels. Consequently, the court ordered the immediate removal of the counterfeit establishment. It directed the local police to dismantle the operation and seize all materials associated with the unauthorized use of the Kamats brand name.

“We are pleased to have successfully halted the illegal exploitation of our brand name by individuals seeking to deceive the public by operating substandard outlets under our esteemed name. Protecting our brand's integrity and ensuring our customers' trust and satisfaction are paramount to us,” shared Dr. Vikram Kamat, the Founder and CMD of The VitsKamats Group.

Kamats Restaurants reiterates its commitment to upholding the highest standards of quality and authenticity across all its establishments and assures its valued customers that every effort will be made to maintain the integrity of the Kamats brand name.

Papa Johns International Inc has announced that Rob Lynch, President and Chief Executive Officer, will be departing Papa Johns to assume another CEO position. 

The board has appointed Ravi Thanawala, Papa Johns current Chief Financial Officer, as Interim CEO effective today. 

To ensure a smooth transition, Lynch will provide continued support in an advisory role until April 30, 2024. The Board is conducting a comprehensive search process to identify a successor for the CEO role.

“Since joining Papa Johns nearly five years ago, Lynch has guided the company through a business and culture transformation. I am joined by the board, our team members and our franchisees in sharing our deepest thanks for his service and contributions in rebuilding the strength of the brand as CEO. We wish Rob all the best,” said Chairman of the Board, Christopher Coleman. 

Thanawala joined Papa Johns in 2023 as Chief Financial Officer. Prior to joining Papa Johns, he served as Chief Financial Officer of Nike North America, Nike Inc.’s largest division, generating approximately $20 billion in revenue on an annual basis. 

During his seven years at Nike, Inc., Thanawala also served as the Global VP and CFO of the Converse brand, executing Nike’s global omnichannel direct-to-consumer strategy and successfully turning around the $3.5 billion dollar Converse brand. In addition, he was the Global VP of Retail Excellence, overseeing the brand’s performance across its business channels of franchises, licenses, direct to consumer and wholesale. Prior to Nike Inc., Thanawala spent eight years at ANN INC. in finance and operations roles.

“I’m honored to step in as Interim CEO during this transition period and thank the Papa Johns Board of Directors for its confidence in me. We have a talented Executive Leadership Team, a strong group of franchisees and dedicated team members behind this iconic brand who will continue to deliver on our Back to Better 2.0 strategy and international transformation initiatives, creating long-term value for all of our stakeholders,” shared Thanawala.
 

Known around the world for its big, bold flavors, parent company of Carl's Jr.® CKE Restaurants Inc. and partner RSMG Holding LLC are celebrating the opening of the first Florida restaurant in Doral (5755 NW 87th Ave). In celebration of this moment, the restaurant will host a grand opening ceremony on March 12 from 6-7 p.m. ET. 

"Carl's Jr. and our guests are all about innovative, audacious flavors and live-out-loud, authentic moments, and we can't wait to be part of the energy and community in South Florida," said Vice President of Brand Marketing for Carl's Jr. Anthony Nguyen. "Thank you to our partners at RSMG – together, we made it happen, and we look forward to many more opportunities in the future." 

Carl's crave-worthy menu items include over-the-top, juicy charbroiled burgers, hand-breaded chicken tenders, hand-scooped shakes and indulgent breakfast burgers. Together with its franchisees, Carl's Jr. operates more than 1,000 restaurants across the U.S. and has a presence in 25 countries worldwide. 

"RSMG is looking to position Carl's Jr. as a market leader in South Florida," said Ron Santolaya, CEO and partner of RSMG. "We look forward to utilizing our values and creating a long-lasting relationship with the Doral and South Florida community that can continue to grow, and hopefully expand both domestically and internationally, over the upcoming years." 

The location was first announced in July 2023 and was followed by pre-opening celebrations, including dining events for local emergency responders.  

Santolaya, who has more than 40 years of experience in the industry, is no stranger to the Carl's Jr. brand. For 10 years, he served in corporate international operations based in Anaheim, CA, before holding executive leadership positions with Mexico and Chile-based international franchise groups. Now he has his own franchise group with partners Claudio Fernandez and Milko Grbic – who both serve as managing director and partner.  

Focused on a culture of respect, collaboration and teamwork, RSMG will employ more than 40 restaurant team members plus management at the 2,500 sq. ft., 42-seat Doral restaurant. 

The apex food safety standards regulator of the country, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) under the administration of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, has verified the cheese used by McDonald’s India as ‘100% Real Cheese’. The verification confirms the brand’s assertion that it uses 100% Real Cheese and that it does not use any cheese analogues or substitutes in any of its products. 

The confirmation from the FSSAI explicitly states that “Articles in question contain Cheese or cheese product as a part of composition and does not contain analogue in dairy context in any form”. This clean chit is a testament to McDonald’s India’s commitment to upholding stringent food quality standards across all its restaurants, at all times.

“The clean chit we have received from FSSAI, the India’s apex food safety standards regulator, affirms that our products contain 100% Real cheese, sourced from globally renowned suppliers. The recent tests conducted by NABL-accredited labs also validate this and the fact that our products do not contain any cheese analogues or substitutes. Since the inception of our operations in 1996, we have maintained a steadfast commitment to the highest levels of food quality. We assure our customers and stakeholders that all our products are crafted with genuine, quality ingredients without any compromises whatsoever,” shared Saurabh Kalra, MD, McDonald's India (W&S) said.

Along with this, McDonald’s India (W&S) received the results of the tests conducted by NABL (National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories) accredited lab yesterday, also confirming the use of 100% Real Cheese across its products. 

Pursuant to the clean chit, McDonald’s India (W&S) has retained the term "cheese" in the names of its products containing cheese and remains steadfast in its commitment to transparency and consumer trust.

GOPIZZA, Korea's largest pizza brand, has opened its 50th store in India, which also signifies the achievement of 200 stores globally. 

The new flagship store, located in the vibrant district of Koramangala, Bengaluru, is set to showcase a menu that embodies the essence of Korean flavors, aromas, and tastes.

"This launch marks an important milestone that commemorates 3 years in India and highlights the company's long-term commitment to growth with 200 stores globally and more expansion in one of GOPIZZA’s fastest-growing markets, India”, said Jae-Won (Jay) Lim, CEO, GOPIZZA Global. 

Distinguished by its innovative design, the flagship outlet in Koramangala presents a semi dine-in concept, capturing the authentic vibe of eateries in Seoul. This unique ambiance is tailored to enhance the enjoyment of GOPIZZA's renowned Korean menu. 

It features the brand’s gourmet pizza and pasta specials with a Korean twist, such as the fiery Buldak Volcano Pizza, the delightful Seoul Snow Pizza, and the savory Gangnam Bulgogi Pizza. Additionally, to provide patrons with a true Korean culinary experience, the menu includes starters reminiscent of the local food streets of South Korea, such as the K-fried chicken, Corn dogs, an array of signature Ramyun Bowls, and delectable Korean-inspired desserts.

“GOPIZZA embraces a versatile business model adaptable to spaces as compact as 50 sq ft, suitable for even placements in convenient stores. Through this malleability, we plan to open over 100 outlets by the end of 2024 in different regions of India and surpass the milestone of 500 stores worldwide, standing true to our commitment to accessibility and diversity,” added Mahesh Reddy, CEO, GOPIZZA India.

With GOPIZZA’s dedication to innovation and quality, the brand is strategically enhancing its integration of AI and robotics in all of its kitchens to ensure unparalleled quality and efficiency. 

Presently, operating successfully in Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Chennai, GOPIZZA has ambitious plans to expand its footprint to additional cities including Kochi, Pune, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, and Delhi in the coming months. Furthermore, on a global scale, the brand is poised for expansion into new markets, with upcoming ventures planned in the United States, Philippines, Vietnam, and the Middle East.

Popeyes® brand and Restaurant Brands Iberia (RB Iberia), the parent of the master franchisees for Burger King® Spain, Burger King Portugal, Popeyes® Spain, and Tim Hortons® Spain, are excited to announce entry into a master franchise and development agreement to develop and grow the Popeyes brand in Italy.

Founded in New Orleans in 1972, Popeyes has more than 50 years of history and culinary tradition incorporating Cajun and Creole flavor profiles. Popeyes distinguishes itself with a unique New Orleans-style menu developed by an in-house team of professionally trained chefs featuring the brand's signature chicken sandwich, spicy chicken, chicken tenders, fried shrimp, and other regional items.

"We're very excited about growing the brand in Italy with RB Iberia, a long-term partner and strong operator. We have set ambitious expansion plans for our iconic brand, and today's news highlights our commitment to serving Popeyes bold Louisiana flavors to more guests around the world." said David Shear, President of International, Restaurant Brands International, parent company of Popeyes.

Chicken lovers in Italy can soon look forward to getting their hands on Popeyes world-famous menu items, including the brand's signature Chicken Sandwich, which was declared one of the most successful quick service product launches when it was released in the United States in 2019.  

"We are thrilled to spearhead the launch of Popeyes® in Italy. It is an iconic brand, that has been well-received in Spain, and we are fully committed to its success within the Group," mentioned Gregorio Jiménez, Chairman of Restaurant Brands Iberia by adding that their company excels in managing master franchises, so they have a great business opportunity ahead of them, which will contribute to job creation in Italy and diversify the QSR market.

RB Iberia is committed to providing guests with an excellent digital experience, utilizing personalization and the latest service channels to serve our guests in the iconic hospitable way that is characteristic of the brand.   

Popeyes is one of one of the world's largest chicken quick-service restaurant brands with over 4,300 restaurants in over 35 countries around the world. This agreement marks a continuation of Popeyes expansion plan in Europe, with Popeyes restaurants already present in Spain, Switzerland, the UK, Romania, France, and more recently in Poland and Czech Republic.

The third-quarter results from local franchisees of Domino's and McDonald's revealed a decline in Indians' frequency of dining out for pizzas and burgers.

Analysts observed that intense competition and the impact of inflation suppressing demand are anticipated to exert pressure on their earnings in the short run.

Jubilant Foodworks, the operator of Domino's restaurants, experienced an unexpected decline in profits.

Meanwhile, Westlife Foodworld, responsible for operating McDonald's restaurants in the southern and western regions of India, reported a more significant profit drop than anticipated.

In an effort to boost demand, quick-service restaurant (QSR) operators in the country have employed various strategies, including introducing more affordable menu options, offering increased discounts, and reducing packaging expenses.

Despite these measures, they have been unsuccessful in encouraging Indians to dine out more frequently, primarily due to elevated inflation.

These companies, which include the same ones, enjoyed significant gains during the festive season last year, benefiting from an increase in Indians dining out more frequently following several years heavily affected by the pandemic.

The deceleration in demand after the high base of 2023 has not only impacted their earnings but has also led to a negative same-store-sales growth (SSSG), deviating from the typical 5 percent.

Although the weakness in demand "may be approaching its lowest point," achieving the previous same-store-sales growth (SSSG) levels is improbable, according to Karan Taurani, an analyst at Elara Capital.

Amnish Agarwal, an analyst at Prabhudas Lilladher, mentioned that the margins of the two companies are not expected to experience a "substantial rebound." Taurani also noted that the increasing competition from smaller players would continue to put pressure on margins.

Jubilant reported a profit of INR 657.1 million (USD 7.9 million), marking the fifth consecutive quarter of decline and significantly below analyst projections of INR 902.6 million. Additionally, its revenue growth decelerated for the seventh consecutive quarter.

Meanwhile, Westlife recorded its initial decline in revenue in three years, and its profit of INR 172.4 million fell considerably short of analyst expectations, which were pegged at 331.1 million rupees, according to LSEG data.
 

Papa Johns International Inc. has announced Amanda Clark, COO for international, will leave the company on March 1 to take a position as CEO at another company in the franchise industry.

Clark joined the brand in Feb. 2020 as its CDO. Her responsibilities expanded to include leading the Papa Johns international business in May 2022 and was appointed COO, International in September 2023. Under her leadership, the brand delivered more than 700 net new units and signed the two largest development deals in company history.

"We have created a culture at Papa Johns where we cultivate top talent and help them achieve their full potential. We wish Amanda much success in her new role," Rob Lynch, president and CEO, said in the press release. 

"We have a strong international leadership team in place and talent within that organization who will continue to deliver on our business priorities while we conduct a comprehensive search that will evaluate both internal and external candidates for the next international leader. The team is focused on executing the international transformation initiatives we recently announced as part of our Back to Better 2.0 plan, including establishing our international regional business hubs, accelerating consumer-facing technology enhancements and optimizing the UK market for long-term profitability and strength,” he added.

A search is underway for Clark's replacement.

Papa Johns operates more than 5,900 restaurants in 50 countries and territories.