The Americas
Shake Shack invests in technology strategy to support planned growth
Rob Lynch, the CEO of US burger restaurant chain Shake Shack, has set his sights on reaching 1,500 units domestically by leveraging a significant technology upgrade. The strategy, dubbed Project Catalyst, was revealed with plans to roll out new point-of-sale (POS) and kitchen display systems and expand AI capabilities that will be integrated into daily workflow. It also plans to build on data to increase personalised service for guests and improve operational processes.
James Beard Awards 2026 announced, with Los Angeles racking up several wins
The 2026 James Beard Award finalists were announced Tuesday, including Humanitarian of the Year, awarded to Othón Nolasko and Damián Diaz, who founded No Us Without You in Los Angeles. The organization was founded in 2020 to provide food relief to restaurant workers impacted by the pandemic. During the immigration raids last year, the group pivoted to create a coalition of restaurants that serve meals to families afraid to go out. Los Angeles-based chef Nancy Silverton, restaurateur and founder of La Brea Bakery and restaurant Campanile, was given a Lifetime Achievement Award.
Asia Pacific
Tech and flavor to fuel Australia’s QSR growth from 2026
Australia’s QSR sector was valued at about US$25.5bn in 2025 and is projected to more than double to US$54.1bn by 2034, suggesting annual growth of roughly 8.45% from 2026 onward, with digital tools said to be playing a key role. According to IMARC’s report, industry expansion is linked to increased foreign investment, broader consumer appetite for diverse food choices, and efforts by chains to expand their offerings and streamline operations. More recent data also shows the sector expanding in physical footprint. A 2026 report by GapMaps recorded 250 net new quick-service outlets added in 2025, the strongest annual increase in a decade, highlighting continued operator confidence and market saturation in urban areas.
Global brands accept high costs as gateway strategy squeezes local shops in Singapore
Local retailers in Singapore are facing competition as foreign franchises rapidly expanding across F&B can tolerate higher costs in exchange for visibility and scale, forcing smaller players to sharpen differentiation. “Singapore’s open and globally connected market makes it an attractive gateway for international brands seeking a regional foothold,” Tricia Tan, executive director at the Franchising and Licensing Association (FLA) Singapore, told Retail Asia. Many see the city-state as a gateway into Southeast Asia rather than a primary profit centre, she said in an emailed reply to questions.
Europe, Middle East, Africa
Hospitality sector warns two-thirds of jobs may be cut amid employment costs and business rates
A new member survey from UKHospitality, the British Beer and Pub Association, the British Institute of Innkeeping and Hospitality Ulster reveals the damaging impact another year of significant cost increases will have on hospitality businesses. As a direct result of cost increases implemented at the start of the new financial year, businesses will cut jobs (64%), cancel investment plans (51%) and reduce trading hours (42%). Around one in seven venues (15%) will be forced to close. The increasing cost of energy was also a significant concern. Even before the situation in Iran and the Middle East, almost all businesses (93%) said energy costs were impacting profitability.
Lebanon’s hospitality and tourism sector faces renewed strain as crisis deepens
According to GANNET’s latest SituationHub 2026 report, the renewed hostilities and ongoing ceasefire violations are impacting Lebanon’s appeal as a travel destination, placing strain on the hospitality sector. The report highlights that the national currency has lost more than 98% of its value, while inflation continues to rise sharply. Meanwhile, rising fuel prices and supply chain disruptions are driving up operational costs for hotels and restaurants. Businesses are therefore being forced to adjust pricing, reduce services, or limit capacity to remain operational.
Lauren Hurrell
