This week's chain news includes a new prototype for McAlister's, operating results for Chipotle and Yum!, and expansion news for Dunkin' Donunts and Krispy Kreme.
Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE: CMG) reported a 25.8 percent increase in revenue to $640.6 million for its first fiscal quarter ending March 31, 2012. Chipotle reported a 12.7 percent increase in comparable store sales for the time period.
Dunkin' Donuts (NASDAQ:DNKN) signed a multi-unit store development agreement with three franchise groups to open 25 new restaurants in Texas over the next several years. The franchise groups include: 521 Interests LTD, which plans to develop 16 restaurants in Houston; Rick Molina and Guy Ellison plan to develop five restaurants in San Antonio; and Kishore Samtani plans to develop four restaurants in San Antonio. These developments are part of the chain's goal to double the number of Dunkin' restaurants in the United States over the next 20 years, according to a company release.
Krispy Kreme Doughnut Corporation (NYSE: KKD) signed a development agreement with LLC Doughnuts Café, who is expected to build 40 Krispy Kreme shops over the next five years in the Russian city of Moscow.
McAlister's Deli, a fast-casual cafe concept, developed a new store design for its restaurants. Combining modern and traditional elements, the new design gives the 23-year-old brand an updated look and feel. In addition to a new color palette, the design includes mixed seating with tables, booths and hi-tops with bar stool seating, as well as new fixtures and lighting. Part of the new store layout includes a unique Tea Bar, featuring McAlister's Sweet Tea that is fresh brewed several times each day. The Tea Bar will give customers the opportunity to customize their tea and try new sweet tea flavors. McAlister's opened two restaurants with the new design, one in Aurora, Colo. and another in Lexington, Ky.
Papa John's International, Inc. (NASDAQ: PZZA) acquired 56 franchised Papa John's restaurants in the Denver and Minneapolis markets. With the immediate sale of six of the Denver restaurants to an area franchisee, the transaction results in the net acquisition of 50 restaurants (21 in Denver and 29 in Minneapolis) by the company for $5.1 million.
Yum! Brands Inc. (NYSE: YUM) reported same store sales for its U.S. locations grew 5 prercent for its first fiscal quarter ending March 24, 2012. Yum! also reported same store sales grew 14 percent in China and 5 percent at YRI. In addition, Yum! reported opening 168 new locations in China during the first quarter. Total international development was 297 new restaurants.
