How Franchises Leverage Social Media Influencers to Drive Sales and Leads Franchises are increasingly turning to social media influencers to boost brand visibility, attract customers, and generate leads. From high-profile partnerships with celebrities to collaborations with niche content creators, brands like Dog Haus, Wendy’s, and Brooklyn Dumpling Shop are redefining their marketing strategies by tapping into the power of online influence. These efforts reflect a broader shift in how businesses, particularly in the restaurant and franchise industries, are leveraging digital platforms to connect with audiences. Jake Paul, a former Vine star, YouTuber, and professional boxer, has become a key figure in this trend. As a brand ambassador for Dog Haus, a hot dog franchise, Paul has signed a 25-unit development agreement to open locations in Texas, Florida, and Puerto Rico. Michael Montagano, CEO of Dog Haus, highlighted the significance of the partnership, noting that Paul’s ability to maintain relevance across multiple platforms over 15 years makes him a unique asset. “He’s someone that really, truly understands the art of marketing and awareness online,” Montagano said, emphasizing that the collaboration has driven both brand awareness and customer traffic. Beyond high-profile figures, Dog Haus also works with culinary influencers like Josh Elkin and chef Adam Gertler. These partnerships are designed to create organic engagement, with Montagano explaining that the goal is to “drive more awareness for the brand to bring consumers into our stores.” While influencers are not directly marketing franchise sales, their content indirectly supports the brand’s growth by attracting potential franchisees who recognize the value of a strong digital presence.#jake_paul #wendys #dog_haus #michael_montagano #brooklyn_dumpling_shop
Fast-Food Chains Shrink Footprint as Rival Chains Close Locations The fast-food industry is undergoing a wave of store closures as major chains, including Wendy’s and Habit Burger & Grill, announce plans to reduce their physical presence. These moves reflect broader challenges in the sector, including shifting consumer preferences, operational costs, and competition from established brands like McDonald’s. The closures span multiple chains, with some locations shutting down quietly while others are part of strategic restructuring efforts. Wendy’s, one of the largest burger chains in the U.S., announced in February 2026 that it would close 5%-6% of its 5,831 locations, or approximately 292 to 350 underperforming units, during the year. This decision was part of its Project Fresh initiative, a turnaround plan aimed at improving profitability and franchisee economics. The company had already begun the process, closing 28 restaurants by mid-February as part of its system optimization program. The remaining closures are scheduled to occur throughout 2026. Meanwhile, Habit Burger & Grill, a California-based chain founded in 1969, has quietly shuttered several locations. One such closure occurred in Mooresville, North Carolina, where the restaurant at 379 W. Plaza Drive closed in mid-April 2026. A sign posted in the store’s window cited a “shift in focus to other areas poised for growth” as the reason for the closure. The location was marked as permanently closed in an April 21 Google listing. The sign also directed customers to nearby Habit Burger locations, emphasizing the chain’s continued presence in the region. Before the Mooresville closure, the Charlotte area had six Habit Burger locations, according to CharlotteFive.#wendys #habit_burger_grill #mooresville_north_carolina #parsippany_new_jersey #charlotte_five
