Remodels are a source of sales, and tension, in franchise systems

Reality Check: Restaurants will be competing for attention this year with the Summer Games and political advertising. It could be a test of whether digital marketing, and loyalty programs in particular, can deliver on their promise.

The Bottom Line: Bankruptcy filings, closures, strategic alternatives and a sudden value messaging all suggest the industry is in a tough spot. But many brands are still thriving.

The industry veteran with a knack for scaling full-service brands is bringing his expertise to three Southeastern mainstays and is on the hunt for more.