Tropical Smoothie Cafe unveiled a new brand identity featuring brighter colors and a palm frond icon as it prepares for aggressive expansion under Blackstone's ownership. The chain, which surpassed $1.6 billion in system sales, plans to grow from 1,800 locations by year-end to thousands more domestically and internationally, while investing in digital ordering, loyalty programs, and operational improvements.
Chick-fil-A maintains one of America's most competitive franchise models, with a $10,000 franchise fee unchanged for 50 years and only about 200 of 100,000 annual applicants selected. Unlike typical franchises, operators don't own the restaurant or build equity, with locations reverting to Chick-fil-A upon retirement rather than being passed down or sold.
After years of closures, Denny's is executing a turnaround strategy under new private ownership by TriArtisan Capital Advisors, Treville Capital Group, and Yadav Enterprises. The chain is modernizing through Project Grand Slam, introducing new menus, renovating locations, and launching catering services to rebuild its brand.