In addition to their other tasks, business leaders focus on spreading consistent culture throughout their companies. Head to the Best Practices section for an item on how Taco John's COO sees her role as a "bridge between franchisees and the corporate office."

Here's what else to expect in today's issue:

• Dave's Hot Chicken app tops downloads with Drake promo
• CEO reflects on evolution, innovation at Golden Corral
• Restaurants introduce inventive LTOs, menu items

The Dave's Hot Chicken app soared to the top of the iOS App Store, briefly becoming the most downloaded app overall after a promotional event tied to Drake's birthday. Customers who downloaded the app were eligible for a free chicken tender or slider, which boosted downloads and increased in-store visits during the two-day campaign. The promotion raised the app's visibility and introduced new customers to the brand, with the potential for repeat business.

Entrepreneurs Chris Wilson and Gary Andrews are building on their success with the Cousins Maine Lobster brand with plans to open four new trucks in New Mexico, Arizona and Texas. "After a strong debut with our first two trucks, we're eager to expand across multiple states and serve even more communities that can't get enough of Cousins Maine Lobster," Wilson said.

Taco John's Chief Operating Officer Jackie Secor notes that COOs serve as "the bridge between franchisees and the corporate office." Secor highlights her role in spreading corporate culture and notes that "we seek to create a sense of community among our franchisees and make our frontline employees realize they're part of something larger than their restaurant's four walls."

CEO Lance Trenary's four-decade leadership at Golden Corral has been marked by a blend of tradition and forward-thinking innovation. Trenary and his team used the pandemic period to reimagine operations, growing off-premises sales and redesigning facilities to facilitate takeout and delivery. New models, such as the smaller-footprint Golden Corral Favorites, and upgraded digital capabilities, reflect a commitment to flexibility and guest convenience that has fueled growth and helped future-proof the brand.

Restaurant brands are rolling out a variety of limited-time offers this week, including the return of Jimmy John's Picklewich. Meanwhile, Potbelly is debuting seasonal cookies, and there are new chicken wraps at Long John Silver's.

Travelers are becoming more cost-conscious and spending less overall while maintaining the same number of trips, according to Phocuswright's US Consumer Travel Report 2025. Younger travelers are entering the market, using online travel agencies for price comparisons, while older travelers are starting to exit. Travelers are also spending more time researching trips, often using AI-powered tools, and are more likely to choose road trips over air travel if airfare rises.

New menu items and limited-time offers help restaurant brands expand their customer base and build excitement along loyal fans. Here's a look at some recent developments:

At the IFA Emerging Franchisor Conference learn how to sustain unit growth with rapid expansion expert Steven Montgomery as he lays out what it takes to go from 0 to 750. He will provide the ways to speed up growth and how to stand out in a crowded market. Take notes on mistakes to avoid and find out what building and scaling requires on Nov. 10-12, in Nashville. Register here.

Sammy's Sliders is tapping into the enthusiasm for sliders as diners look for customizable, shareable and flavorful meals. "Sliders have become one of the fastest-growing trends in fast-casual dining," notes award-winning chef and co-founder Sammy Gianopoulos. The brand is "inviting entrepreneurs nationwide to join its flavorful journey," according to a release.