A new seafood restaurant washes up at Chicago’s Soldier Field and the Melting Pot tries to convince franchisees to update their interiors. Here are some interesting stories that came across the editor’s desk this month.
franchising
- Chicago-based restaurant chain Surf’s Up opened a new location at Soldier Field. This is the brand’s eighth franchise location in Chicago and its first stadium location.
- la Madeleine will develop three new franchise locations in Florida, Tennessee and Texas over the next three years.
- Huddle House signed a franchise agreement for a new location in Hartselle, Alabama.
seeking new opportunities
- The boutique pizza franchise is seeking to add new Firehouse Pizza locations from Kentucky to Tennessee, and along the southeastern coastlines.
- Bread & Vine launched a franchise program primarily focused on targeting Wisconsin and Illinois.
- Melting Pot will now offer an existing restaurant conversion incentive that covers potential revenue loss during store closure, as well as a signage package and a marketing fund to utilize once renovations are completed.
milestones
- Yampa Sandwich Co. marks its 25th anniversary with the launch of new franchise program that aims to expand the brand’s footprint throughout the Southwest.
- City Barbeque is celebrating its 25th anniversary.
- Detroit-style pizzeria Via 313 opened its 20th location in Webster, Texas.
- Korean fried chicken chain Bonchon has added 44 new units and 12 new franchise partners this year. Keeping it on track to hit its goal to grow from 145 to 500 U.S. locations and 1,000 locations worldwide in the next five years.