Guest Contributors

Following its acquisition by TriArtisan Capital Advisors, Denny’s is entering a new chapter. With Keke’s Breakfast Café gaining momentum and loyalty at Denny’s holding steady, the iconic diner brand is well-positioned to rebuild and modernize for long-term growth.

Foot traffic is set to surge across America’s premier shopping corridors this holiday season. Placer.ai data highlights how 5th Avenue, Rodeo Drive, and the Magnificent Mile each follow distinct seasonal patterns – and attract a mix of affluent visitors, families, and young singles.

Summary: Full-service restaurants across the U.S. see major traffic spikes on Veterans Day as they honor service members with free meals and special offers. Data from last year shows how these gestures strengthen community connection and business performance.

Warby Parker continues to prove the power of blending digital fluency with in-store experience. In 2025, visits are up YoY as the brand expands its footprint and deepens engagement through hybrid services that position physical stores as key growth drivers.

Despite persistent inflation, value grocers Grocery Outlet Bargain Market and WinCo Foods continue to expand and attract more shoppers. With traffic up over 10% and 5% year over year, both chains are capitalizing on shifting consumer loyalty toward affordable grocery options.

Can CAVA's aggressive growth strategy continue to deliver traffic increases?

Four years after their IPOs, First Watch, Portillo’s, and sweetgreen are navigating a new dining reality. First Watch continues strong growth, Portillo’s cools after expansion, and sweetgreen balances new tech and suburban growth to sustain its momentum.

Wendy’s same-store visits dropped 6.3% YoY in Q3 2025 amid high costs and discounting pressure. But a simplified promotion strategy – led by the $1 breakfast biscuit deal – fueled double-digit breakfast growth in August. The brand’s new “fewer, bigger deals” approach could help reignite momentum heading into year-end.