Yum Brands’ CEO David Gibbs plans to retire early next year. Gibbs has spent 36 years with the Louisville, Kentucky-based parent company of Taco Bell, KFC and Pizza Hut, leading Yum through the turbulence of the pandemic and a period of aggressive digital transformation. Under his leadership, the company leaned heavily into technology, growing its delivery footprint and launching a global digital strategy that now accounts for more than half of system sales. Yum said it will begin the search for a successor immediately.
Add another casual-dining chain to the bankruptcy roster. Hooters of America filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, aiming to restructure its finances and sell some of its company-owned restaurants to two of its largest franchisees. The Atlanta-based brand cited shifting consumer preferences and rising costs as key reasons for the move. The breastaurant chain said restaurants will remain open during the process and that the brand still sees long-term growth opportunities.
Sandwich chain Jersey Mike’s inked a sponsorship deal with the National Football League. The partnership makes Jersey Mike’s the "Official Sub Sandwich" of the NFL, a major marketing play ahead of the 2025 Super Bowl. The deal comes not long after Blackstone purchased the chain for $8 billion. It gives Jersey Mike’s the exclusive right, among sub-sandwich chains, to use the NFL’s trademarks in its advertising, potentially helping to accelerate its growth as a national brand.
TikTok is turning loaded potato restaurant concepts into social media stars. A growing number of operators are finding viral success by building menus around customizable baked potatoes packed with everything from brisket to buffalo chicken, an evolution of those shopping mall stuffed potato concepts of the ‘80s and ‘90s. Videos featuring cheesy, over-the-top creations are racking up millions of views, driving long lines at local potato shops and even launching national franchise interest. It’s the latest example of how TikTok continues to shape consumer cravings—and restaurant concepts—in real time.
Portillo’s, the chain known for Italian Beef sandwiches and hot dogs, is getting ready to test a breakfast menu. The Chicago-based fast casual plans to pilot breakfast at select locations later this year, targeting early-daypart traffic in a move that could diversify revenue and build guest frequency. While menu specifics haven’t been revealed, expect hearty, Chicago-style items designed to hold up during drive-thru and delivery. Portillo’s teased the breakfast debut with a social media post of an egg sandwich on a croissant.
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