On this week's Extra Serving, NRN editor in chief Sam Oches and executive editor Alicia Kelso discuss the latest restaurant industry news, including El Pollo Loco’s plans for growth in New York, Chipotle’s drive-thru milestone, and a new report that details major struggles at Crumbl Cookies.
First up is the chicken category, starting with El Pollo Loco, which announced that it had signed three development agreements that will bring 15 locations to the New York City area over the coming years. Alicia shares why El Pollo Loco is well prepared for this growth today despite two failed attempts in the past, and she and Sam break down what’s possible for the brand as it grows eastward. They also discuss the news that Popeyes is launching a Honey Chicken Biscuit Sandwich, which Sam believes could be a winner against competitors like Bojangles.
Next, they turn to the Mexican category, starting with Chipotle, which celebrated its 1,500th Chipotlane location last week. It’s a milestone for a company that once resisted drive thru, and Sam and Alicia discuss the importance of the Chipotlane to Chipotle’s overall strategy — particularly as digital sales become more important to its success. They also discuss Chipotle’s latest margarita promotion, which might suggest the company is exploring more growth in the alcoholic beverage channel, before turning their attention to Taco Bell and its new Global Taco Day promotion with Duolingo.
Finally, for the extra serving portion of the episode, Sam and Alicia welcome their colleague, Restaurant Business editor in chief Jonathan Maze, to talk about his reporting on Crumbl Cookies. According to Jonathan’s exclusive report, Crumbl — which was once the fastest-growing brand in the industry — has closed dozens of locations while tightening the screws on franchisees who are under more pressure than ever.
For more on these stories:
El Pollo Loco sets its sights on New York
Chipotle is bringing its Margaritas back to select cities
A cookie empire is starting to crumble
