Catch up on the latest restaurant franchise news from Cheba Hut, Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, Paris Baguette, Teriyaki Madness, Hawaiian Bros, Ono Hawaiian BBQ, Potbelly, and TGI Fridays.
Cheba Hut Defeats Munchies in Minneapolis with Long-Awaited Uptown Shop
Cheba Hut “Toasted” Subs has finally opened its long-awaited Uptown Minneapolis shop at 1118 W Lake Street, bringing its famous cannabis-themed toasted subs, sharables, sweet treats, and full bar to the Twin Cities. With late-night hours, local art, craft cocktails, and catering, Cheba Hut is set to be the ultimate munchies destination for Minneapolis.
Federal Court Dismisses Meritless Lawsuit Against Dickey’s Executive, Vindicating Company
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit has secured a major legal victory as a federal court dismissed a franchisee’s lawsuit against former executive Stephen Mullett. The ruling vindicates the company and reinforces its commitment to integrity, franchisee support, and protecting its brand.
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit Coming Soon to Canyon City, CO
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit is bringing its legendary Texas-style barbecue to Canyon City, Colorado, with a new location opening soon on Justice Center Road. Led by veteran franchisee Bobby Rusnak, the restaurant will serve up pit-smoked meats, homestyle sides, and family packs for dine-in, takeout, delivery, and catering.
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit Expands With New Littleton Location
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit is expanding its Colorado presence with a new Littleton location. Operated by longtime franchisee Bobby Rusnak, the restaurant will serve authentic Texas-style barbecue, southern-inspired sides, and family-friendly hospitality.
Paris Baguette Ranked No. 112 in 2025 Technomic Top 500 Chain Restaurants Report, Climbing Over 20 Spots From Prior Year
Paris Baguette has climbed to No. 112 in Technomic’s 2025 Top 500 Chain Restaurants Report, jumping more than 20 spots from last year. With strong franchise growth, rising AUVs, and over 250 North American cafés, the global bakery café brand continues its rapid expansion and industry recognition.
Huge Comeback Calls for Huge Bowls: Teriyaki Madness Returns to Albuquerque Sept. 19
Teriyaki Madness is back in Albuquerque with a grand re-opening on Sept. 19 at Juan Tabo Plaza. Fans can enjoy huge bowls, upgraded service, extended hours, and giveaways including free Teriyaki Madness for a year. The celebration also supports Meals on Wheels New Mexico with a $1,000 donation.
Hawaiian Bros Celebrates Second Nebraska Location
Hawaiian Bros is bringing its signature island flavors to Omaha with a new location. The grand opening will feature giveaways, including gift cards up to $500 and a chance to win Hawaiian Bros for a year, while a VIP event on Sept. 6 offered free meals to local heroes and community members.
Ono Hawaiian BBQ Grows Its Presence in Queen Creek with a Second Location
Ono Hawaiian BBQ is expanding in Queen Creek, AZ with the opening of its second location in just two months. The new Queen Creek Crossing restaurant features a convenient double drive-thru and will celebrate with a grand opening event, BOGO specials, and giveaways, bringing fresh, made-to-order Hawaiian-inspired cuisine to the community.
Potbelly Corporation to be Acquired by RaceTrac in Approximately $566 Million Transaction
Potbelly has entered into a definitive merger agreement with RaceTrac in an all-cash deal valued at approximately $566 million. The acquisition, expected to close in late 2025, will combine Potbelly’s beloved sandwich shops with RaceTrac’s expansive convenience store network.
TGI Fridays Doubles Down on Global Expansion
TGI Fridays is expanding its global footprint with new long-term franchise agreements in Peru and Japan. Through partnerships with Franquicias Alimentarias S.A. and Watami Co., Ltd., more than 50 new restaurants will open, strengthening the brand’s international growth and delivering its signature flavor and celebration to new markets.