The MULO Dozen: April Brands in Review

Another April …another 12 innovations, booms, busts, and leadership changes in the MULO (multi-location) world. Retailers and restaurants are always scaling, shrinking, and experimenting with new innovation, footprints, business models, and technologies.

In addition to covering many of them throughout the month, these end-of-month wrap-ups are designed to give you even more news and ideas.

Speaking of ideas, please join our upcoming “think tank” in Chicago on November 7th. We’ll be announcing our first amazing speakers in May!

1. C-stores are no longer for just cigarettes and snacks. 7-Eleven names a new director of fresh food. (LEADERSHIP)
2. We don’t seem to be sitting long for meals. Last year, QSR and fast casual visits outpaced full-service dining, according to Placer.ai. (CONSUMER VOICES)
3. Private-label brands are not new for retailers. But this one is! Target launched a private label toy brand. (INNOVATION)
4. Costco turned 40, and the brand shared its history, philosophy of $1.50 franks, and what’s in store for leadership. (BOOM)
5. On a roll! Hawaiian Bros opened a brick-and-mortar store in Arizona (INNOVATION)
6. Things are always shaking in the C-suites! Shake Shack named Rob Lynch as CEO. (LEADERSHIP)
7. This brand has been fraught with scandal! Subway now faces a $50M sexual abuse lawsuit. (BUST)
8. Fashion forward! Nike hires Tim Hamilton as VP of men’s apparel design. (LEADERSHIP)
9. Need ideas for seasonal promotions? Look to the skies. These brands took full advantage of the solar eclipse. (CONSUMER VOICES)
10. Walmart is partnering with UnSpun on 3D clothing production tech. High-tech meets sustainability! (INNOVATION )
11. EV charging is already available in malls and C-stores. Why not Waffle House too? (INNOVATION)
12. Restaurants need a tech stack. But when is too much tech detrimental?  (INNOVATION)

Have news for us? Please let us know!