1851 Franchising Weekly Rewind

This week fast food giant McDonald’s announced that it will begin sourcing chickens that are raised without the use of antibiotics. Over the next two years, the chain will be transitioning to the new antibiotic policy which prohibits chickens exposed to antibiotics critical to treat human illness. McDonald’s is one of the largest buyers of chickens in the U.S. and this is likely to have a major impact on how poultry is raised and served.

U.S. Adds 29,000 Franchise Jobs in February

According the latest ADP National Franchise Report, U.S. private-sector franchise jobs increased by 29,000 during the month of February. This is up slightly from 26,000 jobs added in January. The report is compiled by ADP in collaboration with Moody’s Analytics Inc.

Upcoming Legal Cases Could Change Franchising Future

In the next few weeks, the result of two upcoming legal cases could affect how franchises are seen in the eyes of the law. The decisions are based around defining franchises as small, independent businesses or part of a larger company. On Tuesday, a federal judge will hold a hearing on Seattle’s minimum wage law, which treats franchisees as a big business and not independently owned. The National Labor Relations Board ruling is also being litigated during this time.

Fuddruckers is Expanding into South America

Texas-based Fuddruckers has finalized a development agreement that will expand the brand into South America. In December, the fast-casual brand debuted its first South American site in Santiago, Chile. Fuddruckers’ partnership with Grupo Chars calls for an initial opening in Bogota, Colombia.

Ice Cream Flavored Coffee is Coming Back to Dunkin’

Dunkin’ Donuts has announced the return of ice cream flavored coffees and lattes. The flavors are inspired by Dunkin’ sister brand Baskin-Robbins. The brand will be bringing back the Cookie Dough and Butter Pecan flavors and adding a new addition to their offerings with a Rocky Road flavor.