Weekly Wrap: Top Stories from July 25-29

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10: McD increases commitment to a more healthful menu
As scrutiny from consumers and public-interest groups continues to mount, McDonald's says it will work to make its food, particularly Happy Meals targeted to children, more healthful by adding standard fruit options and reducing sodium, added sugar and saturated fat across the menu board.

9: Slideshow: Subway non-traditional units
From a church, to a school, to a construction site above ground, the quick-service sandwich chain has 8,000 units in "non-traditional" locations. The brand says this outside-the-box approach increases business opportunities for franchises.

8: NPD: Consumers want smaller portions
More adult consumers are making an effort to eat smaller portions when they dine out, according to a study from research firm The NPD Group, which says that restaurants can benefit from the trend by downsizing the meals they serve.

7: Dunkin' begins trading, IPO nets $423M
Dunkin' Brands Inc. sold 22.25 million shares for $19 each in its initial public offering Wednesday, garnering about $423 million. Dunkin' Brands shares surged 46.6 percent during its first day on NASDAQ.

6: Restaurants respond to Tufts calorie study
In a recent study, Tufts University researchers discovered inaccuracies in calorie information voluntarily provided by chain restaurants, but mostly in low-calorie items and side dishes. Operators discuss the results, and the future of menu labeling, with Nation's Restaurant News.

5: Seattle’s Best closes 248 in-store Borders outlets
Seattle's Best Coffee has shuttered 248 outlets located in Borders Superstores around the country. The book retailer is in the midst of bankruptcy proceedings, and while Seattle's Best will feel the impact of the closures, it remains positioned for growth.

4: P.F. Chang’s outlines turnaround plan
After a 29-percent decline in second-quarter earnings, P.F. Chang's China Bistro Inc. laid out a plan, which includes lowering prices and diversifying the brand's menus, to drive traffic and increase sales.

3: Bojangles’ sold to Advent International
Falfurrias Capital Partners, majority owner of Bojangles', has agreed to sell the fried chicken and biscuit chain to private-equity firm Advent International. The brand is one of the fastest-growing drive-thru chicken chains.

2: Red Mango names Barry M. Barron CEO
Barron succeeds the frozen yogurt chain's founder Dan Kim, who will remain at the company as chief concept officer. Barron has experience at Papa John's International and Pizza Hut.

1: McD: Price increases haven’t hurt traffic
The quick-service chain's U.S. same-store sales increased 4.5 percent in the second quarter, driven by new beverages and a McNuggets offer. The company said two price increases didn't yet seem to result in any change in traffic or menu mix.

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