Jan 11: FAT Brands donates 10,000 meals, Jack Hartung joins Portillo's

FAT Brands Donates 10,000 Meals to First Responders in Los Angeles

FAT Brands (NASDAQ: FAT) announced a initiative to provide 10,000 meals to first responders and fire evacuees in Los Angeles. The meals will be distributed via its mobile food truck, the “Fatmobile.” This effort underscores the company’s commitment to supporting communities during emergencies.

• Why it matters: This initiative highlights the role of large foodservice companies in disaster relief, strengthening brand reputation through corporate social responsibility.

• Community impact: By providing meals to first responders, FAT Brands fosters goodwill and strengthens its community presence in a high-visibility effort.

Source: FAT Brands Press Release

Jack Hartung Join's Portillo’s Board of Directors

Jack Hartung, the soon-to-retire CFO of Chipotle Mexican Grill, is slated to join the board of directors for Portillo’s. Hartung, who has served as CFO of Chipotle for over two decades, is retiring effective March 31, 2025. His appointment to Portillo’s board reflects the company’s intent to leverage his vast experience in financial and operational leadership within the restaurant industry.

• Why it matters: Hartung’s expertise in scaling operations and navigating public markets makes him a valuable asset for Portillo’s.

• Strategic implications: Portillo’s benefits from Hartung’s insights into growth strategies and financial optimization, strengthening its boardroom expertise.

Sources: Chipotle Press Release MSN Article

Yoshinoya Expands Rapidly in Indonesia

One of the things i really like about Japanese companies is that many of them publish the number of locations every month. Even better it is quite easy to read. One of the largest TSE listed fast food company in Japan is Yoshinoya. Per its recent monthly report it increased number of store in Indonesia from 155 to 174.  That is quite an increase considering the size of Indonesia market and the intensity of the competition there. Check the whole result below (it’s in english). 

Source: Yoshinoya Holdings Report

SPB Hospitality Sells Brewery and Specialty Brands

SPB Hospitality, a major player in the restaurant and brewing industry, has sold several of its well-known brands to Kelly Companies of Southern California. The transaction includes brands such as Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery, Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant, ChopHouse & Brewery, Ragtime Tavern, and Seven Bridges Grille & Brewery.

• Why it matters: This divestment reflects SPB Hospitality’s strategic focus on streamlining its portfolio and concentrating on core assets.

Sources: SPB Hospitality Official Site Kelly Companies Official Site

Silk Bubble Tea Launches First Boba Café Concept

Silk, a Hong Kong-based bubble tea brand, has debuted its first Boba Café concept in Kennedy Town. With a current presence of five locations in Hong Kong and one in Singapore, this new venture aligns with the trend of bubble tea brands diversifying their customer engagement strategies.

• Why it matters: This reflects the evolving bubble tea industry, which is moving beyond quick-serve models to attract a broader customer base through lifestyle-oriented spaces.

Source: Silk Tea Official Website