Wendy’s to Open 700 Ghost Kitchens with Reef
Restaurantbusinessonline.com reports that Wendy’s will open 700 ghost kitchens over the next five years in Canada, the U.S. and the U.K. through a partnership with operator Reef Kitchens.
The announcement follows a test of eight Reef units in Canada, and is part of an ambitious global development plan for the Dublin, Ohio-based burger chain that includes eased financial requirements for prospective franchisees and a new $100 million development fund.
Hyatt to Acquire Apple Leisure Group
Hyatt has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Apple Leisure Group (ALG), a leading luxury resort-management services, travel and hospitality group, from affiliates of each of KKR and KSL Capital Partners, LLC for $2.7 billion in cash. The transaction is anticipated to close in the fourth quarter of 2021, subject to customary closing conditions.
ALG’s resort brand management platform AMResorts provides management services to the largest portfolio of luxury all-inclusive resorts in the Americas under the AMRTM Collection brand portfolio, including well-known brands Secrets Resorts & Spa, Dreams Resorts & Spas, Breathless Resorts & Spas and Zoëtry Wellness & Spa Resorts as well as the fast-growing Alua Hotels & Resorts brand, which is expanding in European leisure destinations. The acquisition also includes ALG’s membership offering, Unlimited Vacation Club, travel distribution business ALG Vacations, as well as destination management services and travel technology assets. Following the completion of the transaction, ALG’s business will continue to be led by current ALG CEO Alejandro Reynal and the current ALG leadership team. Mr. Reynal will become a member of Hyatt’s executive leadership team and report to Hyatt CEO Mark Hoplamazian.
Taco Bell Unveils its Most Innovative Restaurant Ever
QSRmagazine.com says Taco Bell revealed its "Defy" concept—a 3,000-square-foot, two-story model the company said redefines what it means to be a frictionless, tech-forward restaurant.
Constructed with the digital consumer in mind, the building features four drive-thru lanes, including one traditional lane and three others specifically for mobile or delivery order pickups. There’s also digital check-in screens that allow mobile order consumers to scan their order via a QR code and pick up food through a contactless proprietary “bell-evator” lift system. During the ordering process, two-way audio and video technology enables customers to interact with employees located on the second story.
GE Appliances Recognized as an Achievers 50 Most Engaged Workplace
GE Appliances, a Haier company, today announced its recognition as one of the 2021 Achievers 50 Most Engaged Workplaces. This annual award recognizes the top 50 employers across the U.S. that display leadership and innovation in engaging their workplaces.
“We’re a company committed to putting people first, and that starts with having a meaningful, innovative and engaging workplace experience for everyone,” said Kevin Nolan, president and CEO of GE Appliances. “When we remove barriers and create opportunities that allow our people to pursue their passions and thrive, we’re able to deliver world-class products and support to our owners, customers and communities in the best ways possible.”