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The restaurant industry kicked off 2025 with major developments that reflect the shifting landscape of food service, franchising, and consumer preferences. As a leader in restaurant brokerage, We Sell Restaurants continuously analyzes these trends to help buyers and sellers navigate an evolving market. This month’s biggest headlines reveal strong expansion efforts from major brands, increased franchise opportunities, and strategic innovations that will shape the industry in the coming year.

The Expansion Race: Franchise Growth Continues at Full Speed

Several major restaurant brands have started the year with aggressive expansion strategies. Mountain Mike’s Pizza, for instance, opened its 300th location in Henderson, Nevada, marking its first foray into Southern Nevada. Similarly, Nick the Greek reached 80 locations, with plans to surpass 100 by mid-2025, while Paris Baguette continues its U.S. dominance, opening in both The Woodlands, Texas, and Phoenix, Arizona.

Franchise expansion of this scale signals a strong demand for proven restaurant concepts. Established brands with solid franchise models are increasingly attractive to investors looking for a lower-risk entry into the industry. For those considering restaurant ownership, franchising offers built-in brand recognition, operational support, and market-tested systems that increase the likelihood of success.

At We Sell Restaurants, we are seeing heightened interest in franchise resales—where buyers can acquire an existing, revenue-generating unit rather than starting from scratch. If you’re considering a buying a restaurant, we can guide you toward opportunities that align with your goals, whether that means purchasing a thriving franchise or exploring emerging concepts with high growth potential.

The Evolution of Fast Casual: Competitive Menu Innovation

Several quick-service and fast-casual brands are making bold menu changes to capture consumer attention. KFC introduced a $5 lineup featuring new bowl options, including the highly anticipated return of their Nashville Hot Sauce. Meanwhile, Arby’s has launched a $6.99 Surf & Turf deal, combining seafood and roast beef in a budget-friendly offer.

These strategic moves reflect an industry-wide push toward value-driven menu innovations. Consumers are becoming more selective with their dining dollars, prioritizing affordability without compromising on experience. Restaurant owners must stay competitive by balancing pricing strategies with menu differentiation—whether through limited-time offers, loyalty programs, or premium ingredient upgrades.

At We Sell Restaurants, we advise our clients on how menu trends influence restaurant valuations. A restaurant with a strong history of adapting to market demands often holds greater resale value. If you are considering selling a restaurant, now is the time to evaluate whether your menu strategy aligns with current consumer expectations.

Franchise Opportunity Spotlight: Bennigan’s, Steak & Ale, and Sonny’s BBQ

This month also brought exciting news for entrepreneurs exploring franchise opportunities. Legendary Restaurant Brands, the parent company of Bennigan’s and Steak & Ale, is rolling out new franchise models to attract first-time and seasoned investors. Meanwhile, Sonny’s BBQ earned a spot on Entrepreneur Magazine’s Franchise 500 ranking, a testament to its strength as a growing concept.

These brands reflect two key trends in franchising: the resurgence of legacy brands and the ongoing appeal of niche restaurant concepts. Steak & Ale, for example, is tapping into nostalgia, bringing back a brand that once dominated the casual dining space. Sonny’s BBQ, on the other hand, is capitalizing on the steady demand for high-quality, regional cuisine.

For buyers looking at franchise investments, choosing the right concept is crucial. We Sell Restaurants has helped countless buyers evaluate which franchises offer the best return based on financial performance, market demand, and operational fit. If you’re considering buying a franchise resale, our brokerage services can help you navigate the due diligence process to ensure long-term success.

Mergers and Acquisitions: What Changing Ownership Means for the Industry

One of the most significant transactions this month was the acquisition of multiple Checkers & Rally’s locations in St. Louis by a new franchisee. This type of restructuring signals a dynamic business environment where ownership changes can revitalize underperforming units.

For sellers, this highlights the importance of preparing a business for sale to maximize value. At We Sell Restaurants, we specialize in helping restaurant owners position their businesses for smooth transitions, whether they are looking to retire, reinvest in new ventures, or capitalize on market opportunities.

For buyers, these acquisitions reveal where opportunities lie. Purchasing an existing restaurant under new leadership can offer a faster path to profitability, especially when paired with fresh marketing strategies and operational improvements. We help buyers assess financial performance, lease agreements, and market potential to ensure a seamless transition.

Promotions That Drive Traffic: Whataburger, Scooter’s Coffee, and Customer Loyalty

Promotions remain a powerful tool for driving foot traffic and customer engagement. Whataburger’s Kids Eat Free promotion for February is a strategic move to attract families, while Scooter’s Coffee’s Galentine’s Day BOGO deal leverages a cultural trend to encourage repeat visits. Additionally, Scooter’s introduction of the Puppy Love Bite pup cups reflects the growing trend of pet-friendly dining experiences.

For independent restaurant owners, these promotions offer a blueprint for engaging customers. Limited-time offers, seasonal promotions, and experience-driven incentives can set a restaurant apart in a competitive market. At We Sell Restaurants, we encourage sellers to highlight strong customer loyalty programs in their valuation, as these can be a major selling point for prospective buyers.

Final Thoughts: What This Means for Restaurant Owners and Buyers

The first month of 2025 has provided clear insights into where the restaurant industry is headed. Franchises continue to be a dominant force, menu innovation remains essential for customer retention, and strategic promotions are driving consumer engagement.

For restaurant owners considering a sale, now is the time to take stock of your business’s strengths and position it attractively for the right buyer. For those looking to enter the industry, the wealth of franchise resales and independent restaurant opportunities offers a promising landscape.

At We Sell Restaurants, we are committed to providing expert guidance to both buyers and sellers. Whether you’re looking to expand your portfolio, sell your current business, or invest in a thriving restaurant, we have the expertise and market knowledge to help you make informed decisions.

Want to learn more? Contact us today to explore restaurant for sale or discuss a FREE Valuation of your restaurant in today’s dynamic market.