This week on Nation’s Restaurant News, the U.S. House of Representatives voted to pass President Joe Biden’s $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan, which includes $25 billion in restaurant relief. The COVID-19 relief package came one step closer to passing, but continues to face hurdles in the Senate.
Meanwhile, the state of Texas announced that it would lift all COVID capacity limits and mask mandates on March 10. Gov. Greg Abbott said the Lone Star State must open 100% to “restore livelihoods and normalcy.” Mississippi also lifted its restrictions.
In financial news, casual-dining chain Ruby Tuesday emerged from voluntary Chapter 11 bankruptcy. A Delaware bankruptcy judge approved of the company’s restructuring plan, allowing the company to shed liabilities (including 185 stores shuttered due to the pandemic), move forward with its current portfolio of 209 corporate-owned locations, and continue to invest in virtual delivery-only brands.
Culver’s Franchising named a new CEO last week, succeeding Joe Koss, who retired at the end of 2020, and Freddy’s Frozen Custard was acquired by Thompson Street Capital Partners.
Get these stories and more, including the scoop on Quiznos’ new prototype and rebranding, in this week’s gallery.
