The brands will also make their debuts in France, Belgium and the Netherlands through a partnership with Franklin Junction, which matches brands with “host kitchens” that sell their food for delivery only.
Taste Tracker: Brunch pops up at Cracker Barrel; salads star at El Pollo Loco and Newk’s; Shuckin’ Shack goes on a road trip; and Fazoli’s, Marble Slab and Zaxby’s celebrate dessert.
The franchisor plans to offer aggressive incentives and new prototypes to make opening restaurants more appealing. "We need to do our part," the new leader said.
The chain expected to return to net new unit growth this year. Instead it will close more restaurants than it opens again, citing high costs and underwhelming returns.