logo
Shake Shack debuts brand new menu item — but fans have concerns

Shake Shack debuts brand new menu item — but fans have concerns

Yahoo21-05-2025
Shake Shack has officially added fried pickles to its menu — but not all customers are thrilled.
The popular burger chain, known for its signature ShackSauce, crinkle-cut fries and hand-spun frozen custard shakes, made the announcement on social media Wednesday.
Alongside photos of trays of the fried treats and a Ranch dipping sauce, the caption read: 'Fried pickles just got official side status — catch them next to the crinkle cuts.'
While the news was mostly met with excitement from customers, it also raised concern with some fans who worried about how the fried pickles were prepared.
'Oh no! Please tell me you use a separate fryer for these and not the same as with the fries or mushrooms?!' one person commented on X. 'Pickle juice is potent and will ruin the taste of everything else's you put in the same fryer.'
Shake Shack's official X account responded, assuring the customer that 'our Fried Pickles are cooked in the same fryer we use for our Chicken items.'
Fried pickles just got official side status—catch them next to the crinkle cuts. pic.twitter.com/6qNXa3x6A1
— SHAKE SHACK (@shakeshack) May 20, 2025
Others voiced their concerns about the side's portion size in relation to the $4.99 price tag.
'WTH I got six tiny pickles in my order!' one complained, while a second said: 'Just got these and they are great. BUT legit 8 fried pickle slices for 5 bucks is a little ridiculous.'
A third noted that their 'Denver location was not about selling it even though tho the posters are all up. Fried pickles are only for the promo sandwiches as this one location explained to me while i was pointing at the promo of the basket of them.'
'What gives?' they asked. Shake Shack answered directly, telling the customer: 'Oh no! Please reach out to share@shakeshack.com so we can follow up with you. We'd like to make this right.'
But the majority of fans appeared thrilled that their favorite snack had finally been added.
'YES!' one Instagram user exclaimed. 'I got the BBQ burger the other day and literally said to my partner that I wish the pickles were a side of its own.'
'This is the best news I've ever heard,' a second declared. 'Suddenly I know what's for lunch,' a third added.
'Here's to hoping you 'accidentally' drop a few in with an order of fries,' another quipped.
This month, the fast food franchise is offering a free burger to all patrons who spend $10 or more. The deal will run from the first of May until the first of June. Read here to find out more about the limited-time offer.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Starbucks rival continues its US expansion
Starbucks rival continues its US expansion

Miami Herald

timean hour ago

  • Miami Herald

Starbucks rival continues its US expansion

Whether you're a coffee lover or not, Starbucks is nearly impossible to ignore. With over 40,000 locations in 80 countries, it has become the most recognizable name in coffee worldwide; chances are, almost everyone has tried something from its menu at least once. However, Starbucks has experienced a noticeable decline in recent years. Sales are down, store traffic has slowed, and concerns about the company's long-term growth have prompted a major turnaround strategy to revive its business. Don't miss the move: Subscribe to TheStreet's free daily newsletter While Starbucks still dominates the market, smaller chains like Dutch Bros (BROS) , Scooter's Coffee, and 7 Brew Coffee have been gaining traction, steadily growing their customer bases. Now, Starbucks faces perhaps its most significant challenge yet. A powerful international rival has entered the U.S. market, threatening its position as a coffee leader. Related: Starbucks faces huge new rival Founded in 2017 in Beijing, Luckin Coffee (LKNCY) entered the coffee scene 46 years after Starbucks (SBUX) launched, and has already surpassed expectations. With over 22,000 stores, it's now the largest coffee chain in China, overshadowing Starbucks in that market. Although relatively unknown to Americans, Luckin Coffee immediately caught people's attention when it opened its first stores in New York City on June 30. It debuted two locations, one at 55 Broadway and another at 800 6th Ave., introducing its blue-and-white deer logo to the U.S. Image source:Luckin Coffee is known for its high-quality coffee and wide range of menu options at affordable prices. However, due to economic and currency differences, prices at its U.S. locations are understandably higher than in Asia. Starbucks has faced backlash over the last few months for raising its prices. In response to criticism, it simplified its menu and eliminated extra charges, a timely move that coincides with its rival's arrival in the U.S. Related: Starbucks' huge new rival opens first US stores When comparing their menus, Luckin Coffee clearly acknowledges Starbucks as a competitor. Both chains carry handcrafted coffee beverages, frappes, matcha drinks, and refreshers. Their prices are also very similar, with a 16-ounce drip coffee costing $3.45. And so far, U.S. consumers seem intrigued to give Luckin Coffee a chance. During its opening week, lines were out the door, with many people eager to try the new coffee shop in town. Keeping the momentum, Luckin Coffee has wasted no time expanding into the U.S. In a recent Instagram post, the company teased the grand opening of its third location in New York City, hinting that the new store will be "steps away from Columbus Circle" and asking people to guess the exact location. This sparked a wave of fans quickly flooding the comments section, with many commenting "901 8th Ave." More Food News: After bankruptcy, Starbucks rival plans aggressive expansionPizza Hut menu adds a completely new type of pizzaHershey teams up with Costco to make a dream candy combo The Chinese coffee chain also posted a picture to its Instagram story revealing the outside of the new coffee shop, which appears completed. Although Luckin Coffee has yet to provide an official date for the grand opening of its new location, it claims it will be opening very soon. To promote it, Luckin Coffee launched a scavenger hunt that will end on August 18 and allows participants to win prizes and free drinks. This suggests that the third store could open on Monday Aug. 18. Related: Starbucks plans major change to how it adds new menu items The Arena Media Brands, LLC THESTREET is a registered trademark of TheStreet, Inc.

Inside the Business Model of Smudge the Cat
Inside the Business Model of Smudge the Cat

Business Upturn

time14 hours ago

  • Business Upturn

Inside the Business Model of Smudge the Cat

The internet has always had a soft spot for cats, but few have reached the level of viral fame that Smudge the Cat enjoys. Known for his now-iconic appearance in the viral 'Woman Yelling at a Cat' meme, Smudge went from being an ordinary housecat to a global digital sensation. While the meme started as a piece of internet comedy, it quickly evolved into a lucrative business model in the USA, turning Smudge into one of the most recognized pet influencers in the world. But how exactly does a meme-famous cat like Smudge transform internet clout into a thriving income stream? Let's dive deep into the Smudge the Cat business model and explore the economic engines behind this fluffy internet star. Smudge the Cat's Rise to Meme-Fueled Fame in the USA Smudge wasn't always a celebrity. In fact, like many viral stars, fame found him unexpectedly. The photo of Smudge sitting at a dinner table with a grumpy expression, paired with the yelling woman meme template, exploded across Twitter, Reddit, and Instagram in 2019. Almost overnight, Smudge became a face recognized worldwide. What makes Smudge's story unique is that his fame was not initially manufactured by branding agencies or marketing professionals. Instead, it was entirely grassroots — powered by shares, reposts, and remixes from millions of online users. This organic virality laid the foundation for what would later become a carefully managed and profitable influencer business in the USA. Smudge's human family quickly realized the potential of this fame and began shaping it into a sustainable income model. How the Smudge the Cat Business Model Works in the USA When it comes to understanding how pet influencers make money, Smudge provides one of the clearest examples. His business model combines meme culture, influencer economics, and traditional branding strategies. Here are the core pillars: Smudge Pet Influencer Income USA: Brand Sponsorships and Partnerships One of the primary revenue streams for Smudge comes from brand sponsorships. With millions of meme fans across social media platforms, Smudge has a built-in audience that brands want to tap into. Pet food companies, lifestyle brands, and even tech firms see value in associating with an instantly recognizable internet celebrity. In these deals, Smudge's image is used to promote products in fun, meme-inspired ways. Unlike traditional influencer ads that sometimes feel forced, Smudge's campaigns often use humor, making them more authentic and shareable. This keeps engagement rates high, which in turn drives up his value to advertisers. Smudge Meme Brand Deals: Merchandise and E-Commerce If there's one place Smudge has truly thrived, it's merchandise. The Smudge meme brand deals often come to life in the form of T-shirts, mugs, stickers, and even plush toys. Fans of the meme love owning physical reminders of their favorite internet joke, and Smudge's signature table-sitting expression is instantly recognizable on products. What sets Smudge's merchandise apart from generic meme merch is that it's officially licensed, meaning fans know their purchases support Smudge's family and help maintain his influencer career. In the USA, where e-commerce is booming, this merchandise arm is a key driver of Smudge's income stream. Licensing and Media Opportunities in the Smudge Business Model Another important part of the Smudge the Cat business model is licensing. Memes often exist in a gray area of internet ownership, but Smudge's photo is original content, allowing his family to legally license it. This means Smudge's likeness can appear in official memes, ad campaigns, and even media productions. Licensing agreements are highly valuable because they generate passive income. Once a deal is signed, Smudge earns royalties whenever his image is used commercially. This makes licensing one of the most sustainable long-term strategies for meme-based pet influencers. Social Media Monetization: Turning Followers Into Revenue With millions of followers across Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter, Smudge also benefits from social media monetization programs. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok provide monetization options such as ad revenue sharing, bonuses for engagement, and special creator partnerships. While these earnings may not rival sponsorships or merchandise, they create a steady background income. More importantly, high engagement on these platforms boosts Smudge's credibility as an influencer, making him more appealing to brands. Public Appearances and Fan Engagement Smudge's meme fame has also extended into the offline world. From meet-and-greet events to pop culture conventions, appearances give fans a chance to interact with their favorite internet cat. These events often sell tickets, merchandise, or photo opportunities, generating another income stream. What makes this special is that it reinforces Smudge's brand as more than just an internet meme. Fans see him as a real personality, not just a static image on a screen. This personal connection translates directly into higher loyalty and stronger merchandise sales. Behind-the-Scenes Economics of Smudge Pet Influencer Income USA The economics of Smudge's influencer career show how virality can be monetized in smart, sustainable ways. Engagement plays a massive role here. The original meme's popularity created a loyal community, and that community now drives revenue by liking, sharing, and purchasing. For example, every time a Smudge meme resurfaces online, it reignites interest in his social media accounts and merchandise. This cyclical nature of meme culture ensures that Smudge's relevance doesn't fade easily. Unlike a single viral video, a meme template has infinite remix potential, which keeps Smudge in circulation year after year. Comparing Smudge's Business Model to Other Pet Influencers in the USA Smudge's business model stands out when compared to other top pet influencers in the USA, like Grumpy Cat or Jiffpom. Grumpy Cat, for instance, relied heavily on licensing and merchandise before her passing, while Jiffpom's revenue comes primarily from brand sponsorships and TikTok fame. Smudge, however, occupies a unique niche: meme culture. While other pets may go viral for their looks or tricks, Smudge's fame is rooted in internet humor. This allows for a broader audience appeal — not just cat lovers, but meme lovers in general. It also means his income streams can be more diverse, spanning from merchandise to digital licensing. Why Fans Love Following Smudge the Cat A big part of the Smudge pet influencer income USA story is the audience. Fans don't just follow Smudge because he's cute; they follow him because he represents internet culture. His expressions are endlessly relatable, making him the perfect 'reaction face' for daily emotions. This relatability is what makes Smudge's brand so powerful. Fans feel connected to him in a way that goes beyond traditional influencer-audience relationships. Every share, like, or purchase is a way for fans to participate in the meme, which fuels the income model even further. The Cultural Impact of the Smudge Meme Business Model Beyond money, Smudge's business model has cultural significance. He shows how a single viral moment can be transformed into long-term success. In many ways, Smudge's career is a case study in modern internet economics, where humor and relatability can be monetized just as effectively as beauty or talent. Interestingly, Smudge's fame has also contributed to broader conversations about pet adoption and responsible ownership. Many fans are inspired by his story to adopt cats themselves, proving that meme culture can have real-world impact. What Smudge Teaches Us About How Pet Influencers Make Money Smudge's journey from viral meme to thriving pet influencer highlights the adaptability of internet culture. His business model blends brand sponsorships, merchandise, licensing, social media monetization, and appearances, showing that influencer income in the USA doesn't come from a single source but from a carefully balanced mix. This diversified approach ensures that even if one revenue stream slows down, others can carry the brand forward. It also demonstrates how important authenticity and relatability are in today's influencer economy. Fans aren't just buying into Smudge the cat — they're buying into the cultural moment he represents. Final Thoughts: Smudge as a Blueprint for Meme-Economy Success Smudge's story proves that internet memes are more than fleeting jokes — they can be sustainable businesses when managed well. The Smudge the Cat business model is a fascinating example of how viral fame, when paired with smart branding and audience engagement, can generate lasting income in the USA. What makes Smudge unique is that his career isn't just about selling products or posting sponsored content. It's about being part of a cultural phenomenon that resonates with millions. For anyone curious about how pet influencers make money, Smudge's thriving income stream offers a cheerful, meme-filled answer: with a mix of humor, strategy, and a whole lot of personality. This article is intended solely for informational and editorial purposes. It does not constitute endorsement or promotion of any artificial intelligence technology. Business Upturn makes no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information provided.

Fast casual chains remain optimistic about unit development
Fast casual chains remain optimistic about unit development

Yahoo

time18 hours ago

  • Yahoo

Fast casual chains remain optimistic about unit development

This story was originally published on Restaurant Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Restaurant Dive newsletter. Consumers may have retreated from fast casual dining in Q2 2025, but chains have not pulled back from development plans. Despite posting sluggish sales growth, Shake Shack is looking at its biggest year for new units. Sweetgreen, which reported negative sales growth, opened more than twice as many stores in Q2 2025 as it did in Q2 2024, according to its earnings release. In some cases, the volume of new store development has helped push revenues up much faster than same-store sales — Cava's revenue grew 20%, compared to 2.1% comps growth, with a 16.7% increase in its storebase year-over-year. Here's how major publicly traded fast casual brands discussed unit development in Q2. Shake Shack Shake Shack's opened 22 stores, including 13 company-operated locations in Q2, according to its investor letter. This puts the brand on pace to open 45 to 50 locations in 2025, making it the largest annual cohort of company-owned stores, CEO Rob Lynch said on the chain's earnings call. The shareholder letter said the sales growth and unit count expansions — Shake Shack hit 610 total units, up from 547 a year ago — were evidence of the success of the chain's multi-part strategic plan for reaching 1,500 total units. Recent openings have been concentrated outside the brand's traditional, Northeastern heartland, Lynch said. Performance in these new locations has been strong. 'Two openings were among the highest initial sales days in our Company-operated history, both drive-thru formats in suburban markets,' Shake Shack said in its investor letter According to the shareholder letter, Shake Shack opened stores in Washington, Arizona, New Jersey, New York, Virginia, North Carolina, Illinois, Oregon, Utah and Missouri over the last quarter. Geographical diversification could also help boost same-store sales: Same-store sales for the brand actually fell in New York City and the Northeast during the quarter, but rose in all other regions of the U.S., per the shareholder letter. Wingstop Wingstop opened 255 net new restaurants in the first half of the year, with 129 opening during Q2, CEO Michael Skipworth said during a July earnings call. The company opened about the same amount of restaurants in the entirety of 2023 as it did in the first half of 2025, marking a significant acceleration in new openings at the chain. Record unit growth has pushed Wingstop to update its unit growth guidance to 17% to 18%, up from the 14% to 15% range it forecast for this year on its Q4 2024 earnings call. Skipworth said the chain will likely open between 435 to 460 units globally. 'Demand for additional growth with our brand partners remains strong, as we replenish our development agreement pipeline, which now has grown to the highest level of sold restaurant commitments on record,' Skipworth said. It is also boosting its presence in international markets, where it is seeing substantial sales growth. Some of its new global markets are opening stores at levels 'surpassing domestic average unit volumes,' Skipworth said. The chain opened its first restaurant in Sydney, Australia, during the second quarter and guests 'lined up around the block in pouring rain,' Skipworth said. Its newest unit in the U.K. shattered a previous record for the highest global weekly sales set by one of its Kuwait locations. Chipotle Chipotle opened 61 new restaurants during the second quarter, of which 47 included Chipotlanes, CEO Scott Boatwright said during a July earnings call. The opening rate was a record for a second quarter, he added. The company is on track to open 315 to 345 units this year, with 80% including a Chipotlane, Boatwright said, The company expects to increase its growth rate to between 8% and 10%, and it is still on track to reach 7,000 units in the long term, he added. Canada, where Chipotle has 61 restaurants, is becoming a strong growth market. Within the past five years, the business has tripled and has economics on par with the U.S., Boatwright said. Markets outside of the U.S. and Canada are also showing strong economics. A restaurant in Avenues Mall in Kuwait celebrated its first year in operation and has revenue that exceeds U.S. AUVs, Boatwright said. The company also expects to open its first Mexico restaurant early next year. Cava During the second quarter, Cava opened 16 net new restaurants, growing its restaurant count to 398 units across 27 states and Washington, D.C., CEO Brett Schulman said during the company's recent earnings call. The company expects to open 68 to 70 units during the year, a slight increase over previous projections, according to updated guidance in its earnings release. New restaurants are opening with higher metrics than last year's cohort, and the 2025 class is on track to have average unit volumes above $3 million, Schulman said. During the summer, the chain opened its first units in Pittsburgh and Michigan, both of which saw openings with long lines of customers, Schulman said. 'As we expand our footprint into new regions like the Midwest and Southern Florida, while broadening our presence in more established markets, we're inspired by the enthusiasm we're seeing from guests who are embracing CAVA as part of their daily lives,' he said. 'The strength of this demand and the performance of our recent new openings give us even greater confidence in reaching our next major milestone of at least 1,000 restaurants by 2032.' The Mediterranean chain also plans to complete its Project Soul prototype in the fall, which will have various elements meant to create a more inviting dining room. These design features are expected to be included in all restaurants opened in 2026, he added. Sweetgreen Despite ongoing profitability issues and a significant decline in same-store sales during the second quarter, Sweetgreen remains opportunistic about new unit development this year. The chain plans to open at least 40 new restaurants this year, of which 20 will include its automated Infinite Kitchen, according to its Q2 earnings release During the second quarter, the chain opened nine restaurants, with four including an Infinite Kitchen, CFO Mitch Reback said during the chain's Q2 earnings call. This year the chain will also open two Sweetlane locations, one of which will include an Infinite Kitchen. New openings continue to perform well, with its Forest Hills restaurant in Queens, New York, having one of the strongest openings in the company's history, Reback said. Last year's class of restaurants are also on track to have a strong year one results, delivering 'a second quarter margin well above the fleet average,' Reback said. In this cohort, 40% are in legacy markets and 60% are in new markets. 'This reaffirms our confidence in the effectiveness of our real estate strategy and the significant long term growth opportunity that lies ahead,' Reback said. He added that the company is refining its strategy in New York City and closed two restaurants in Manhattan that were older and smaller units, Reback said. These closures led to greater volume at three newer, larger nearby restaurants. The company is also relocating its Union Square restaurant and its NoMad location, its first New York City restaurant, to better sites with Infinite Kitchens. 'As leases mature on a small number of older locations, we see opportunities to consolidate volume into newer units, particularly in established urban markets where the footprint no longer aligns with our strategy,' Reback said. 'We expect this disciplined approach will strengthen AUVs, same-store sales and margins as we scale towards 1,000 domestic locations.' The chain will also enter four new markets this year: Sacramento, California; Fayetteville, Arkansas; Cincinnati and Phoenix, Reback said. Neman also reiterated the company's long-term goal of 15% to 20% annual unit growth. Recommended Reading Fast casual chains steam ahead with expansion as other sectors pull back Sign in to access your portfolio

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store