Restaurant News iconRestaurant NewsSep 28, 2026 ~5 min source read

McDonald’s Leads Weekly Roundup as Chains Expand, New Locations Open, and Industry Data Highlights Growth

A weekly digest from RestaurantNews.com lists McDonald’s NEXT strategy, new franchise entries and openings from The Peach Cobbler Factory, Starbird Chicken, Bread Zeppelin and Paris Baguette, plus RestaurantData’s analysis of thousands of verified openings and several leadership and award announcements.

McDonald’s and 19 More Restaurant News Headliners of the Past Week

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McDonald’s announced a long-term NEXT strategy focusing on efficiency, tech updates, category growth and capital investments with franchise partners.

Several brands are expanding through new franchise deals and openings: The Peach Cobbler Factory in Boston, Starbird Chicken in Washington, Bread Zeppelin in Texas and Paris Baguette in California.

Industry recognition and leadership moves included FACE Amusement Group winning an IAAPA Brass Ring award for talent acquisition and Dave Shula returning as president of Shula’s Restaurant Group.

The useful part

To support this initiative, the company plans to invest billions alongside its franchisees while targeting higher operating margins by 2030. 2) The Peach Cobbler Factory Arrives in Boston, Massachusetts The Peach Cobbler Factory is expanding its regional footprint by bringing a new franchise store to Downtown Crossing in Boston. Owned and operated by local franchisees Victoria and Walter Greer, the shop will serve up classic Southern-style treats alongside an array of puddings, cinnamon rolls, and milkshakes.

How it works

  • and Megadeth Put the Last Tickets to a Sold-Out Show Behind the Pizza Counter Prince St.
  • McDonald's and 19 More Restaurant News Headliners of the Past Week | RestaurantNews.com Facebook Tweet LinkedIn McDonald's, The Peach Cobbler Factory, Starbird Chicken, Bread Zeppelin, and RestaurantData...
  • Seven Premium Toppings in One Perfect Bite Papa Johns is highlighting its fan-favorite specialty pie, The Works, which comes loaded with seven distinct toppings including pepperoni, Canadian bacon, Italian...
  • The partnership plans to develop 15 new locations across the region, bringing the fast-casual brand's signature tenders, sandwiches, and salads to the Pacific Northwest.
  • 4) Bread Zeppelin Continues DFW Expansion With Richardson Restaurant Opening Sept.

What to take from it

30 Bread Zeppelin is expanding its Texas footprint by opening a new restaurant in Richardson, which serves as the brand's twelfth location overall. The fast-casual concept features customized salad-stuffed baguettes alongside bowls, housemade bread pudding, and a seasonal Pink Lady salad that supports breast cancer awareness charities. restaurant openings to highlight seventeen major companies expanding their footprints.

Example or evidence

  • 19) Mo' Bettahs Builds on Utah Roots With New Highland Restaurant Mo' Bettahs Hawaiian Style Food is expanding its presence in Utah with a new restaurant location in Highland.
  • 6) FACE Amusement Group Receives IAAPA Brass Ring Excellence Award for Best Talent Acquisition Program FACE Amusement Group earned an IAAPA Brass Ring Excellence Award for running the industry's best talent...
  • The international trade association recognized the entertainment and hospitality operator for its people-first approach to hiring, employee retention, and leadership development across its venues.
  • It also highlights popular industry topics like marketing backlash, the reopening of Carnegie Deli, and a Houston restaurant processing unmatched delivery volumes.

Details worth keeping

1) McDonald's Advances NEXT Strategy To Become First Choice for More Customers, More Often McDonald's is rolling out its new long-term NEXT strategy aimed at boosting restaurant efficiency, updating technology, and expanding market share in key menu categories like chicken and drinks. 3) Starbird Chicken Expands Into Washington With 15 New Restaurant Locations Planned Through Partnership With Mehta Investment Group Starbird Chicken is entering Washington state through a new franchise agreement with Mehta Investment Group. World, the Disappearing Tamale, A-List Restaurants, and More!

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