Restaurants News & Analysis
3 articles
Market Mood
QDOBA Aims for 2,000 Locations with $5 Billion Sales Target
QDOBA, which closed 2025 with 827 locations, plans to increase its footprint to 2,000 restaurants over the next decade. The company, now led by CEO John Cywinski, also targets $5 billion in systemwide sales and $2.7 million in average-unit volumes. Notably, QDOBA has shifted to a franchise-first model and has recently secured $435 million in funding. This expansion strategy illustrates the brand's goal to enhance its market presence in the competitive fast casual sector, which could impact investor sentiment positively.
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Champps Kitchen + Bar (CHAM) Reduced to 3 Locations Nationwide
Champps Kitchen + Bar, once boasting over 60 locations, is now down to only three remaining outlets after recent closures, including its 20-year location at Eastview Mall in New York. According to the mall's owners, the decision to leave was fully on Champps, as they did not increase rent. This decline follows years marked by bankruptcies and ownership changes, as highlighted by their acquisition for $26.8 million in 2017 by Fun Eats and Drinks LLC. The brand, known for pioneering the sports bar format, faces challenges in attracting customers outside of major sporting events, which occur only about 70 days a year.
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Bahama Breeze (restaurant) closes all U.S. locations officially
Bahama Breeze has announced the closure of its last remaining U.S. locations. The restaurant chain, which has been active for over 30 years, has officially shuttered all operations this weekend. The decision follows the closure of Michigan's last location, marking the end of the Caribbean-themed brand in the U.S. market. This closure may impact the casual dining sector as Bahama Breeze was considered a notable player among similar establishments.
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