Jamba, which has been updating its brand identity through the "Sunshine in a Cup" concept, is introducing a new prototype with freestanding kiosks, digital order pickup zones and other features. "For the guests, I think it's important that we base this upon the business that we're building, which is more things paired together, create more meal occasions for Jamba as opposed to this singularity as a smoothie or a bowl," said Nathan Louer, chief brand officer.

Mountain Mike's Pizza has reached 300 locations after opening nine restaurants during the first quarter, with new units in California, Texas, Wisconsin, Nevada and Washington. "Our sustained development reinforces our strength as a growing chain with a rising position nationally in the highly competitive pizza space," said Jim Metevier, the company's CEO.

Taco John's CEO Heather Neary's career advancement strategy centers around directly asking for promotions, a tactic that has paid off throughout her career, notably at Auntie Anne's. This approach, coupled with her goal-driven mindset, has been instrumental in her progression to leadership roles. The worst mistake you can make as a leader is to be indecisive," Neary says. "I think action is better than inaction in every scenario."

Leveraging his experience at PepsiCo, Wendy's CEO Kirk Tanner emphasizes the importance of consumer behavior in shaping the brand's strategy. In a recent podcast, Tanner talks about the chain's growth potential in the breakfast daypart, stresses the importance of customizing Wendy's offerings to cater to local tastes and explains why he advocates for a servant leadership model that focuses on empowering his team.

Hotels are increasingly using guest data to improve experiences and boost loyalty, but this comes with the challenge of balancing personalization with privacy. As travelers become more aware of digital privacy risks, hotels must be transparent about data collection and invest in cybersecurity measures.

Off-premises dining, including takeout, delivery and drive-thru, now comprises nearly 75% of restaurant traffic, as highlighted by a new National Restaurant Association report. Gen Z and millennials significantly contribute to this trend, with two-thirds considering takeout essential. Urban consumers prioritize speed and tech-enabled ordering, while rural consumers desire more off-premises options.

With major provisions of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) set to expire at year's end, IFA is actively advocating for key extensions to protect and support franchising. Register here.

Blue Kangaroo Packoutz of Raleigh was selected to receive the 2025 Franchise of the Year and the 2025 Big Hitter during an annual convention for the brand. "Winning these two awards is an incredible honor and serves as a testament to our unwavering commitment to representing both Blue Kangaroo Packoutz and BELFOR as a whole," said Brian Gardner, co-owner of Blue Kangaroo Packoutz of Raleigh.

A tax package could pass through Congress by early this summer, according to Kevin Hassett, director of the National Economic Council. "We expect probably to finalize the president's thoughts on the tax agenda, at least first thoughts, opening salvos, by sometime next week," Hassett said.

San Francisco Fed President Mary Daly indicates that while she is open to the possibility of a couple interest rate cuts this year, rising inflation risks may necessitate a tighter monetary policy. "Continuing to gradually reduce the policy rate with no urgency to react fast is the right thing to do," Daly said.