Why 2026 Could Include the Summer of the Staycation
With gas prices surging past $4 per gallon in many states and the U.S. engaged in a heated conflict with Iran, this could be the summer of the staycation.

With gas prices surging past $4 per gallon in many states and the U.S. engaged in a heated conflict with Iran, this could be the summer of the staycation.
Coming off a year where food and beverage M&A activity remained relatively stable, 2026 is shaping up to be a strong year for dealmakers. The current market is characterized by fewer, higher transaction deals, with an appetite for disruptive brands.
Sustainable packaging materials are moving from concept to real-world testing as scrutiny of microplastics intensifies. Explore three emerging solutions that show promise, though experts say scalability and cost remain barriers to widespread adoption.
Jersey Mike’s is gearing up for a splashy IPO as Blackstone seeks a lofty valuation that tests whether investors still crave fast-casual growth stories. Strong unit expansion and a proven operator have converged with a market growing more selective.
McDonald’s, Starbucks, and Chick-fil-A dominate U.S. traffic by pairing speed and consistency with sharp cultural relevance, as detailed in a new report. Their mix of operational precision, value messaging, and viral marketing are strengthening customer loyalty even as inflation pressures diners.