GoTo Foods Ready to Drive Significant Growth in 2025
GoTo Foods, formerly known as Focus Brands, has announced a significant expansion plan for 2025, building upon a record-breaking year of growth and innovation. The company, which owns seven iconic brands including Auntie Annes ®, Carvel ®, Cinnabon ®, Jamba ®, McAlister’s Deli ®, Moe’s Southwest Grill ®, and Schlotzsky’s ®, reported 1,177 signed franchise agreements in the past year, and has achieved four consecutive years of increased net unit growth.
“Our success in 2024 was no accident – it stemmed from bold strategies, strong franchise partnerships, and a relentless focus on innovation,” said Jim Holthouser, Chief Executive Officer of GoTo Foods.
Co-branding has played a significant role in reshaping GoTo Foods’ footprint, with 353 co-brand deals signed across 173 locations in 24 states in 2024 alone. “By leveraging cost-effective real estate for multiple brands, franchises gain unmatched opportunities to reach customers through multiple dining occasions and dayparts under one roof while streamlining operations,” said Bobby Morena, Chief Development Officer of GoTo Foods. Looking ahead, GoTo Foods plans to continue focusing on multi-unit growth, co-branding, and nontraditional development.
Learn more here: GoTo Foods Ignites 2025 Expansion with Record Growth and Bold Innovation
Southwest Airlines Implements New Initiatives
Southwest Airlines has announced significant changes aimed at increasing revenue and providing the airline’s customers with more options for a broader range of travel options.
The airline will continue to offer two free checked bags to Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred Members and Customers traveling on Business Select fares, and one free checked bag to A-List Members. Southwest will also credit one checked bag for Rapid Rewards Credit Cardmembers. However, customers who don’t qualify for these free bag options will be charged, effective May 28, 2025.
The carrier also recently adjusted the number of Rapid Rewards points Customers earn on qualifying flights. Business Select fares will now earn more while Wanna Get Away ® and Wanna Get Away Plus ® fares will earn less. These initiatives aim to deepen and reward loyal members and create new opportunities to reach customers who value fare.
Learn more here: SOUTHWEST AIRLINES OUTLINES CHANGES TO DRIVE REVENUE GROWTH AND REWARD ITS MOST LOYAL CUSTOMERS
McDonald’s Creates Restaurant Experience Team
McDonald’s has initiated a strategic reorganization to enhance its competitiveness against specialized rivals by establishing three global category management teams focused on beef, chicken, and beverages/desserts. This move aims to bring a specialist’s focus into its operations, allowing for better accountability and execution.
In addition to category teams, McDonald’s has formed a new Restaurant Experience Team encompassing operations, supply chain, franchising, development, restaurant design, and delivery. Jill McDonald, who currently serves as President of International Operated Markets, has been named to the new role, Chief Restaurant Experience Officer, effective May 1.
These organizational changes are part of McDonald’s broader strategy to expedite the introduction of new menu items and technologies, addressing previous delays in the development process. By adopting a horizontal structure and leveraging technology, McDonald’s aims to improve unit economics and enhance the overall experience for customers, employees, and franchises.
Learn more here: McDonald’s has created teams focused on beef, chicken, and beverage categories to better compete with ‘specialists’