
Deciphering the Labor Market: The numbers behind the labor shortage
The US labor force is 1.8 million workers lower than pre-pandemic levels, with franchises facing labor shortages and challenges.
Gen Z is a person in Burnaze's franchise knowledge graph, mentioned since 2015. 330 stories link here, each summarized from the original publisher. * Gen Z prioritizes value-driven pricing and technology, with 47% of Gen Z consumers visiting convenience stores at least several times a week [[2026-08-25 The Next Generations Shaping C-Store Food (6752e9)]] * Gen Z is driving growth in the QSR market by opting for protein-focused upgrades and specialty beverages, with nearly half of Millennials willing to spend more on meals that emphasize protein and specialty beverages [[2026-05-18 Consumers Demand Value, Yet Want to Splurge (e08ef7)]] * Gen Z accounts for 38% of loyalty sign-ups and has a lower discount rate than Millennials, with their loyalty driven by instant, relevant value and digital engagement [[2026-05-11 It’s Not a Discount Problem. It’s an Attention One. (e5bdb2)]] * Restaurant operators are developing sophisticated non-alcoholic beverage programs to cater to Gen Z's shift away from alcohol, offering high-margin opportunities and driving loyalty [[2026-05-14 Building Zero-Proof Beverage Programs for Gen Z’s Sober Shift (8b96c5)]] * Gen Z is influencing their parents' food purchasing decisions, with Gen Alpha already showing a passion for food and social values that may lead to even more adventurous eating habits [[2026-08-25 The Next Generations Shaping C-Store Food (6752e9)]] * Young entrepreneurs, including those from Gen Z, are disrupting the franchising industry with fresh ideas and an innovative spirit, bringing adaptability and a willingness to embrace new technologies [[2026-02-12 Young Entrepreneurs Disrupt Franchise Industry (b92446)]] * Gen Z's annual spend is growing fast, making them a key demographic for restaurants to target with effective loyalty strategies [[2026-05-11 It’s Not a Discount Problem. It’s an Attention One. (e5bdb2)]]

The US labor force is 1.8 million workers lower than pre-pandemic levels, with franchises facing labor shortages and challenges.

Atul Pathak, the UK's largest McDonald's franchisee, sells his portfolio of 43 McDonald's restaurants and partners with German Doner Kebab.

Snagajob has surveyed hourly workers to understand the dynamics of the evolving job market.

Trend alerts to assist you with your international expansion plans
Atul Pathak, a successful McDonald's franchisee in the UK, has sold out at the legacy brand to join German Doner Kebab, a fast-casual dining brand.

Trend alerts to assist you with your international expansion plans

The NOW Massage targets the Northeast for massive growth, planning to double its footprint by the end of 2022 and expand to 175 boutiques by 2025.

Trend alerts to assist you with your international expansion plans
Muscle Maker’s Pokemoto division enters Philadelphia market with a new location.

Trend alerts to assist you with your international expansion plans

The NOW Massage is revolutionizing the massage industry with high-quality, customizable massage services and a curated design setting.

The NOW Massage has signed 100th franchise agreement in less than two years.

Skyhawks Sports Academy uses digital flyers and SMS to reach customers.

Trend alerts to assist you with your international expansion plans

Oath Pizza plans to expand nationwide, with a focus on efficient business models and attracting Gen Z customers who prioritize companies going good in the world.

A&W continues to offer an attractive business model, with five reasons why people should invest in the franchise, including a century of brand recognition.

Heyday, a personalized skincare brand, has opened one new location and signed franchise agreements for 100 stores, aiming to open 18 more physical locations by the end of the year.

Trend alerts to assist you with your international expansion plans
German Doner Kebab appoints Sofia as its new Managing Director for the UK, replacing Daniel Bunce who was promoted to GDK International Global COO role.

Trend alerts to assist you with your international expansion plans

WellBiz Brands Inc. saw $500 million in systemwide sales in 2021.

The National Restaurant Association releases its 2022 State of the Restaurant Industry report, highlighting industry recovery and labor challenges.

German Doner Kebab to open 78 new locations in UK

TikTok and Meta are discussed as major marketing-related issues for franchise brands, with a focus on mitigating risk and optimizing opportunities.