Carl’s Jr’s diss marketing, the return of the IPO, congress pressures Starbucks

P.F. Chang’s wants to be an everyday option. Shake Shack is looking for a new CFO and restaurant sales are up, but fast food sales are not.

FAT Brands lenders want their money. Noodles & Company has announced retention bonuses in case of a sale. And US Foods and Performance Food Group have ended talks that would have created the country’s largest broadline food distributor by revenue.

Looks like a struggling pizza chain might soon have a new owner. Starbucks had a very big Red Cup Day this year. And international expansion can be tricky business for restaurants.

Jack in the Box had a tough fourth quarter. Cracker Barrel’s logo fallout has led to the loss of a board member. And jobs in restaurants and bars continued to trend upward in September.

Chicken’s popularity doesn’t concern the biggest chicken chain in the world. Consumers’ dine-out preferences are changing. And emerging chain Luna Grill has started to figure out a good cost equation for its business.

Panera Bread wants to return to its glory days. Topgolf has a new owner. And the parent company of Papa Murphy’s may be for sale.

A Freddy’s Frozen Custard franchisee has filed for bankruptcy. Velvet Taco’s CEO is leaving after 8 years with the brand. And Popeyes has launched an exclusive collaboration with a horror film.

Luckin Coffee could go public, again. Menu price inflation is moderating. And why restaurant lenders are being more picky right now.

Starbucks is enjoying some holiday cheer. Pura Vida Miami has won a private equity investment. And Shakey's wants to be your neighborhood pizza parlor again.

Carl’s Jr is taking a swipe at McDonald’s. Congress is trying to pressure Starbucks to move forward with a union contract. And will the IPO market make a comeback?