Foodservice News Archive

  • Restaurant breakfast menus get a seasonal makeover

    September 8, 2026
    Is breakfast the most important meal of the day? Even though dinner typically tops restaurant traffic, studies shows that morning visits can be a key revenue driver, accounting for 29 per cent of all visits. With more and more commuters headed back to the office, some QSRs have recently added breakfast or have switched up their ...
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  • New flavours are emerging to challenge pumpkin for fall’s favourite

    September 4, 2026
    While pumpkin spice certainly gets a lot of attention through the fall season, this year, there are some trending alternatives in the mix. As diners gravitate to seasonal favourites and comfort food, operators are broadening their menus to include more flavours and interesting combinations. Pumpkin is still the top contender, but it’s not the only flavour ...
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  • Chopped Leaf donates $20,000 to support wildfire relief

    September 2, 2026
    Chopped Leaf is donating $20,000 to the Canadian Red Cross following a weeklong fundraising campaign that saw customers across Canada and the U.S. come together to support communities affected by wildfires. The campaign was especially meaningful for the brand’s B.C. franchisees, employees and customers, many of whom have been directly affected by the fires. “It’s been ...
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  • OpenTable launches new product features, many powered by AI

    September 2, 2026
    OpenTable, a global leader in restaurant tech, has announced new and updated product features for restaurants, many powered by AI and automation. From table automations and AI-powered search distribution to natural-language reporting, OpenTable partners will access a more complete and connected operating system to help improve their business. The launch focuses on three priorities for restaurants: driving ...
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  • QSRs introduce innovative offers for fall

    August 28, 2026
    Often with the changing of the seasons, comes the introduction of new QSR LTOs, as restaurants continue to compete for diner attention and dollars. Chains are getting even more creative with their offerings, working hard to embrace value, innovation, and delivering a superior customer experience. Here are some of the fall QSR LTOs recently introduced: McDonald’s is ...
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  • Diner demand for alcoholic beverages is on the rise

    August 25, 2026
    Despite increased coverage in recent years about the growth of mocktails, Dry January, and a decline in alcoholic beverage sales, it appears that alcoholic beverages are making a comeback. According to Technomic’s recent Ignite Menu report, adult beverage mentions for the Top 200 Canadian chains grew eight per cent from Q2 2025-Q2 2026. And though beer ...
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  • Restaurants Canada announces 2026 Awards of Excellence winners

    August 20, 2026
    Restaurants Canada has announced the winners of its 2026 Awards of Excellence, recognizing the individuals and organizations whose leadership, creativity, and commitment are helping move Canada’s foodservice industry forward. The winners will be honoured at One Table, Restaurants Canada’s signature industry gathering, on Sept. 29, 2026, at The Warehouse Event Venue in North York, Ont. Celebrating excellence ...
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  • Fall flavours see summer launches on coffee chain menus

    August 11, 2026
    While we celebrate the second half of summer, fall flavours are hitting menus long before the first leaf falls. Even though it’s still hot outside, some QSRs are launching warm, cozy fall menu items early. Here is a rundown on the some of the early fall menu adopters: Starbucks’ ever-popular PSL makes its debut on August ...
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  • Survey aims to shine a light on the physical health crisis facing kitchen professionals

    July 29, 2026
    The hospitality industry has made significant strides in acknowledging the importance of mental health. Organizations, operators, and industry advocates are increasingly investing in initiatives that support psychological well-being and create healthier workplace cultures. But while the conversation around mental health has gained momentum, the physical toll of working in professional kitchens remains largely overlooked. Long hours ...
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  • Rising costs outpace restaurant profitability

    July 24, 2026
    Canada’s restaurant industry is seeing stronger-than-expected sales growth in 2026, but rising operating costs continue to outpace revenue growth and erode profitability, leaving many operators at risk of closure and with less capacity to invest, according to Restaurants Canada’s recently released Q2 Quarterly Report. The findings highlight the growing disconnect between sales and profitability, underscoring the ...
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  • Summer superhero movies inspire themed LTOs

    July 21, 2026
    Restaurant partnerships and LTOs can be an integral part of restaurant marketing, and summer blockbuster movie releases offer the opportunity to engage with customers, create unique menu items and merchandise, and attract new guests. Superhero movies attract a broad audience of all ages, so themed menus are also great way to get attention on social ...
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  • A&W Canada’s annual Burgers to Beat MS initiative returns

    July 20, 2026
    A&W Canada’s annual Burgers to Beat MS Day is returning on August 20, marking 18 years of helping Canadians affected by multiple sclerosis. On August 20, $2 from every Teen Burger sold at A&W restaurants across Canada will be donated to MS Canada. Donations help drive world-class MS research focused on understanding the disease better, halting its progression, ...
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  • No immediate knockout for BC restaurant patios

    July 16, 2026
    The FIFA World Cup tournament could be leaving a legacy of patios in British Columbia, at least until Labour Day 2026. Operators of pubs, restaurants and other hospitality venues now have flexibility to extend temporary licences initially issued to authorize outdoor alcohol service during the period from June 11 to July 19 in order to ...
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  • Family announces the passing of Francis “Fran” Deck, steward of Toronto’s Fran’s Restaurant

    June 23, 2026
    The family of Francis “Fran” Deck has announced the sad news of his passing on June 22, 2026. Fran passed away peacefully at Sunnybrook Hospital in Toronto at the age of 89. He is survived by his beloved wife Anne, his five children, ten grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. For decades, Fran served as the owner, operator, ...
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  • Merchandise and innovation new to today’s restaurant marketing

    June 22, 2026
    Standing out in such a crowded marketplace can be a challenge for restaurant operators, as competition grows from incoming American chains, broadening convenience store menus, and declining consumer spending. Collectibles are an innovative LTO, providing a way for restaurants to drive loyalty, connect with guests, and even offer a sense of nostalgia, depending on the ...
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