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restaurantSector Intelligence

Food & Beverage

The largest and most visible franchise category — quick-service, fast-casual, coffee, and full-service concepts. Brand recognition and volume are high, but thin margins and labor pressure make unit economics and operator discipline everything.

106
Brands making news
119,048
Total units
$158K – $7.9M
Investment range
403
Articles

Entry points

$100K – $500K
28 brands
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$500K+
58 brands
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Intelligence in Food & Beverage

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Bonchon agrees to acquisition by two entities
M&A4H AGO

Bonchon agrees to acquisition by two entities

Why it mattersThe deal may accelerate Bonchon's growth in the Americas, potentially impacting territory availability for franchisees and multi-unit operators in a competitive fast-casual market.

Jack in the Box, Red Robin and Bonchon
M&A4H AGO

Jack in the Box, Red Robin and Bonchon

Why it mattersThe acquisition of Bonchon suggests potential shifts in market strategy and operational focus, which could influence franchisee alignment with new ownership. Additionally, the declining performance at Jack in the Box may compress available territories as franchisees reassess profitability and operational viability.

How Chili’s Plans to Remain ‘America’s Hottest Restaurant Brand’
Expansion20H AGO

How Chili’s Plans to Remain ‘America’s Hottest Restaurant Brand’

Why it mattersChili's performance suggests a robust model for franchisees, potentially enhancing unit economics and positioning in the casual dining sector. Consequently, this may compress available territories as the brand builds on its momentum.

Bonchon Sold to Minor Food and Serruya Private Equity
M&A20H AGO

Bonchon Sold to Minor Food and Serruya Private Equity

Why it mattersThis acquisition may compress available territories for franchisees as the new ownership seeks to reinforce brand presence and pursue aggressive expansion strategies.

Gen Z Turned This Food Craze Into a TikTok Obsession. Franchisors Are Cashing In.
Expansion20H AGO

Gen Z Turned This Food Craze Into a TikTok Obsession. Franchisors Are Cashing In.

Why it mattersThis trend suggests an increasing demand for social dining experiences, which may impact territory availability as brands look to capitalize on this growing consumer interest.

Chipotle makes its debut in Saudi Arabia
Expansion20H AGO

Chipotle makes its debut in Saudi Arabia

Why it mattersThis expansion into Saudi Arabia may compress available territories for potential franchisees in the region, indicating increased competition in the fast-casual segment.

Red Robin sees progress from value meals, tighter staffing
Other20H AGO

Red Robin sees progress from value meals, tighter staffing

Why it mattersThese developments suggest a possible shift in operational efficiencies and unit economics which may impact franchisee profitability. Additionally, Red Robin's focus on value and labor management strategies might influence competitive positioning in the casual dining market.

Jack in the Box’s sales were not so hot last quarter
Other1D AGO

Jack in the Box’s sales were not so hot last quarter

Why it mattersThe ongoing sales struggles may compress available territories as franchisees look to exit less profitable locations, affecting the franchise landscape in key markets.

Biggest in Food & Beverage

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  1. 1
    Subway
    Subway
    20,576units
    $239K – $537K
  2. 2
    McDonald's
    McDonald's
    12,764units
    $1.47M – $2.64M
  3. 3
    Dunkin' Donuts
    Dunkin' Donuts
    8,744units
    $532K – $1.83M
  4. 4
    Taco Bell
    Taco Bell
    7,335units
    $1.86M – $4.31M
  5. 5
    Domino's Pizza
    Domino's Pizza
    6,948units
    $231K – $744K
  6. 6
    Wendy's
    Wendy's
    5,520units
    $310K – $2.83M
  7. 7
    Burger King
    Burger King
    5,518units
    $2.25M – $3.32M
  8. 8
    Pizza Hut
    Pizza Hut
    4,956units
    $846K – $2.13M
  9. 9
    Little Caesars
    Little Caesars
    3,788units
    $377K – $1.77M
  10. 10
    KFC
    KFC
    3,404units
    $2.11M – $4.16M

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