In-depth pieces from our analyst team — the operations, market shifts, technology bets, and people decisions shaping food service.

New-age tech stocks surged this week, driven by improving investor sentiment. Thirty nine out of the 57 new-age tech companies under Inc42’s coverage gained in a range of 0.03% to close to 20% this week.

Indian startup funding was muted in the first half of 2026, declining 9% YoY to $5.2 Bn raised between January and June. There was a slight 7% uptick in the total number of deals to 501, as per Inc42’s Indian Tech Startup Funding Report, H1 2026 report.

The way people discover products online is changing fast, and ecommerce brands are struggling to keep up. Instead of scrolling endlessly through Google or marketplaces, consumers are using AI assistants like ChatGPT, Gemini and Perplexity for recommendations.

Udaan’s Insolvency Crisis Udaan has run into a fresh crisis. Overseas creditors have initiated insolvency proceedings against the B2B ecommerce unicorn over a $170 Mn bond default.

Jersey Mike's has an AUV of about $1.4 million. Jersey Mike’s is going public.

Ruby Tuesday has been quiet in recent years. It’s understandable given the structural shakeup the casual brand underwent following COVID, when it declared bankruptcy in October 2020 and closed 185 corporate restaurants.

Following the successful debut of its Miami Beach location earlier this year, Kung Fu Chicken will bring its signature Asian-style fried chicken to Kendall this fall, marking the fast-casual brand’s fourth South Florida location and the latest milestone in its rapid expansion ...

The new menu will be available at participating locations through September.

The crafted sodas lineup is available through August 3. PJ’s Coffee is giving guests a refreshing new reason to sip all summer long with the launch of three vibrant craft sodas and a limited-time patriotic lemonade designed to capture the carefree spirit of the season.

Bursting with patriotic colors and celebratory decor, these offerings are made for every star-spangled moment From backyard barbecues to Fourth of July gatherings and lively watch parties, this season is packed with reasons to celebrate.

Eternal’s quick commerce arm Blinkit’s expansion into Meghalaya has hit a road block. As per a report by PTI, Meghalaya’s Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) rejected the company’s bid to secure a mandatory trading licence to operate within the state on June 25.

As the nation prepares to mark its 250th anniversary, Golden Corral is celebrating the historic milestone with a new value-driven initiative to help families enjoy more meals together for less.

To get the collaboration party started, White Castle and Garage Beer will launch the Super Summer Slider Starter Kit on July 1. White Castle and Garage Beer don’t just have customers. These iconic Ohio-based companies have devoted, passionate, go-big-or-go-home fans.

Huey Magoo’s summer celebration is ramping up with new limited-time value offers and a commemorative cup launching June 29. Inspired by America’s upcoming 250th birthday, the months-long celebration highlights the flavors, occasions and traditions that make summer memorable.

Firebirds began by testing its catering program in Charlotte, where the brand opened a catering kitchen that also serves as a research-and-development kitchen.

Just Salad, the New York-born healthy fast-casual restaurant brand committed to making everyday health and sustainability possible, announced a long-term partnership with Jalen Brunson, point guard for the New York Knicks and 2026 NBA Champion and Finals MVP.

G.A.H. Bar-B-Q filed for bankruptcy on June 24.