Finance & M&A — page 6

The estimated initial investment to open a Mister Sparky Electric franchise ranges from $133,273 to $276,702, according to the brand's 2026 FDD.

FSC Franchise Co. signed 20 franchise deals across its three brands in Q3 2026, with 15 openings planned by year-end and 21 in 2027.

Trian Fund Management offered $7.35 per share in cash to take Wendy's private, valuing the deal at roughly $1.4 billion.

Paris Baguette signs 32 franchise agreements, secures 22 leases, and opens 15 bakery cafés in Q3 2026, continuing North American expansion.

Franchise owners with outstanding debt can sell their businesses, but debt type and amount affect sale terms and seller take-home pay.

Peter Giese joins Exit Factor as president with over 25 years of franchising and acquisitions experience.

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf is a premium global roaster and retailer of specialty coffee and tea beverages with a history dating back to 1963.

Chili's parent company Brinker International has reported 22 consecutive quarters of same-store sales growth, but faces challenges with throughput.

Keke’s Breakfast Cafe has moved up 11 spots on the 2026 Franchise Times Top 400 list, reporting 22.5% growth in global systemwide sales.

Popeyes executives adjusted their expectations for a sales turnaround after the chain reported its seventh straight quarter of same-store sales decline.

A 61-unit Outback Steakhouse franchisee has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, with Outback parent Bloomin' Brands set to acquire the locations.

Famous Brands International is offering new franchise owners a 50% discount on initial franchise fees and royalties for the first two years for Mrs. Fields and TCBY.

Schooley Mitchell, a consulting franchise opportunity, offers a pathway to stability and fulfillment for corporate professionals, with a low franchise fee and minimal startup costs.

Russo's New York Pizzeria offers a 50% discount on initial franchise fees for developers who commit to opening at least three Texas restaurants by Dec 31, 2026.

OneSpaWorld reported record third-quarter revenue of $276.5 million, driven by demand for health and wellness experiences at sea.

Choice Hotels International reports a 1% U.S. net rooms growth rate for the third quarter, with RevPAR growth strengthening.

Popeyes' return to sales growth is taking longer than expected as the chicken chain reduces its wings offering and works to improve the experience.

Craveworthy Brands appointed Keith Kravcik as its new chief financial officer to oversee the company's financial operations and expansion.

Franchise owners should consider five tax strategies for their exit plan to minimize the tax burden of selling or gifting a business.

Buyers and sellers structure seller financing with down payments and repayment terms

Franchise resale valuation multiples consider earnings, brand, and buyer interest in profitability and cash flow, rather than just revenue.

Pizza Hut. Wendy’s. Now, Applebee’s and IHOP? Buyers want to take chains private to avoid market pressure — but Dine Brands isn’t ready yet.

Pet industry sees growth with 107 active brands and 4,600 units

Blackwells Capital is pushing Wendy’s to reject a $1.4 billion buyout proposal from Trian Fund Management and mega-franchisee Greg Flynn, arguing the offer undervalues the brand.