1851 Franchising Weekly Rewind

New York Moves to $15 Minimum Wage
After three years of fighting for a $15 minimum wage, fast food workers in New York City are about to achieve their goals. A panel appointed by Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo recommended on Wednesday that minimum wage should be raise for $15 an hour over the course of a few years. This would be a raise of more than 70 percent for workers earning the state’s current minimum wage of $8.75 an hour.
(From the New York Times)

Giordano’s Plans Expansion after Bankruptcy
After applying for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2011, Giordano’s Pizzeria is looking to start expanding its presence across the U.S. After Victory Park Capital bought the brand off the auction block, the brand has maintained its original as well as its famous stuffed pizza. The brand opened its newest company-owned location in Denver. Phoenix; Houston; New York; and Northern California are other potential markets the chain is considering.
(From Franchise Times)

Chuck E. Cheese’s Announces Adult-Friendly Menu
Chuck E. Cheese’s is targeting parents with some latest menu updates. The brand kicked off its foray into the new menu by treating moms at 10 Dallas/Fort Worth locations to a day at the spa at Chuck E. Cheese’s. The new menu targets parents’ palates with thin and crispy pizzas, sandwich wraps, churros and boneless Buffalo wings. In addition, parents can enjoy the new menu items with sodas, beer and wine.
(From Pizza Marketplace)

Del Taco Introduces Three New Fresca Bowls
Mexican quick-service chain Del Taco is now offering three new Fresca Bowls. The bowls will all feature fresh, sliced avocados. Beginning July 23, the brand will be serving The Pollo Asado with Avocado Bowl, The Green Chile Chicken with Avocado Bowl and The Avocado Veggie Bowl. The new bowls arrive as part of the company’s commitment to delivering prepared-to-order, quality food with fresh and delicious ingredients.
(From QSR Magazine)

Johnny Rockets is Heading to College
The new Johnny Rockets Express prototype will be making its way onto college and university campuses. The limited-service prototype has flexible floor plans with options ranging from a free-standing kiosk to a 1,100 square foot restaurant. Currently, the chain has locations on three college campuses: Oklahoma State University, Stetson University and Richard Stockton College. These locations feature an optimized menu and successfully accommodate university requirements.
(From Fast Casual)