McAlister’s Deli, Blaze Pizza, Cuppa Yo, Uncle Sharkii, and Roll-A-Cover lead RestaurantNews.com’s top stories for the week ending January 21, 2024.
1) McAlister’s Deli Announces 10-Unit Agreement Marking Brand’s Debut in Minnesota
Focus Brands has announced the debut of McAlister’s Deli in Minnesota with a 10-unit franchise agreement, alongside a tri-brand franchise agreement that will bring Auntie Anne’s, Cinnabon, and Jamba to Mankato. Behind the signings are seasoned restaurateurs and husband-wife team, Steve and Dani Wegman. The duo owns multiple food concepts around the greater Mankato area including 507, Weggy’s, Krusty’s Donut Shop, The Wagon Wheel, and more.
2) Blaze Pizza Introduces Fast Fire’d Meatballs
Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza, the recognized leader in fast-casual artisanal pizza, has announced a new core menu innovation to kick off the new year – Fast Fire’d Meatballs. Generously sized and served piping hot, the new Fast Fire’d Meatballs are perfectly paired with Blaze’s house-made red sauce and topped with a dollop of creamy Ricotta and tangy banana peppers.
3) Cuppa Yo Launches New Franchise Location in Central Oregon
Cuppa Yo is kicking off 2024 strong with several milestones in its wake and a promising expansion rate in its future. The company has just announced the official opening of its latest location in Redmond, Oregon, marking the 5th franchise location for the brand and the third location for the area.
4) Uncle Sharkii Partners with WCFD for Fresh Franchise Sales Effort for 2024
Uncle Sharkii Poke Bar, the authentic Hawaiian poke restaurant making bigging waves in the U.S., has announced its partnership with franchise sales expert West Coast Franchise Developers as it picks up momentum in its franchise expansion.
5) Publico Boston Features Roll-A-Cover Motorized Retractable Roof
Roll-A-Cover recently installed a motorized retractable skylight at Publico Street Bistro & Garden in South Boston. Prior to this installation, the restaurant had an aesthetically unpleasing retractable roof system that had no functionality. Now, its new motorized skylight provides a WOW factor for the restaurant. With just the push of a button, the roof opens and closes. On beautiful Boston days, the roof opens and turns the space into an outdoor one, maximizing natural ventilation. On inclement weather days, the roof closes and diners can still enjoy the space with an outdoor ambiance.
6) Freshslice Pizza Franchising Enters U.S. Market
Marking a significant 100 store milestone in the company’s growth and entering 2024 with unprecedented momentum, Freshslice Pizza, the innovative Canadian pizza franchise has announced its bold expansion into the USA. Known for its commitment to quality ingredients, innovation, and an amazing ROI for franchise partners, Freshslice is announcing franchise opportunities to the U.S. market.
7) Wendy’s Announces CEO Succession
The Wendy’s Company announced that its Board of Directors has appointed Kirk Tanner as Wendy’s President and CEO, effective February 5, 2024. Mr. Tanner will succeed Todd Penegor, who will depart from the Company and Board in February after serving in senior leadership positions at Wendy’s for more than a decade. Mr. Tanner has also been elected to serve on the Wendy’s Board of Directors.
8) Back by Popular Demand: El Pollo Loco Brings Beloved Shredded Chicken Crunchy Taco Back, Delighting Fans
El Pollo Loco’s Shredded Chicken Crunchy Taco has returned. This delicious fan favorite returned due to popular demand from loyal brand customers. The Crunchy Taco is made with a new double layer of crunchy, fried corn tortillas filled with tender, juicy, shredded fire-grilled chicken topped with a mild roasted tomato salsa, crisp shredded lettuce, and melty Jack cheese.
9) Logan’s Roadhouse Is Now LogERN’S RoadHome
Logan’s Roadhouse, the leading steakhouse known for its scratch-made rolls, mesquite grilled steaks, and ice-cold drinks, is ringing in the new year with their ongoing partnership with country music artist ERNEST. Guests may now visit all participating Logan’s restaurants to enjoy the LogERN Special in-store. The LogERN Special was inspired by the partnership between Logan’s and ERNEST, an award-winning music artist and songwriter.
10) Power Couple Introduces America’s Dog & Burger to Michigan for the First Time
America’s Dog & Burger (AD&B) is starting a stunning year of expansion with the announcement of a significant franchise agreement with Michigan-based entrepreneurial power couple, Thomas and Danielle Henry. The first new store is set to open at 31137 Mound Road in Warren, Michigan during the Spring of 2024.