From CNBC:

– Chicago-based Portillo’s is expanding into the Sun Belt region, focusing on states like Texas, Arizona, and Florida where sales are stronger than in the Midwest.

– McDonald’s plans to open 900 new restaurants in the U.S. by 2027, with a concentration in Sun Belt states like Florida, Texas, and Georgia.

– Friendly’s, a regional chain, is looking to expand beyond the Northeast into the Sun Belt, targeting customers who have relocated to warmer climates.

– Dutch Bros., a coffee chain, is betting on the Sun Belt for growth, with plans to open 150 locations this year in markets like Texas and Southern California.



Read more at CNBC: McDonald’s, Portillo’s, Dutch Bros. open restaurants in the Sun Belt