Weekly Global News Wrap: Chick-fil-A launches new entry into chicken sandwich scene; McDonald's Throwback app deals; Sonic Drive-In eyes int'l expansion

Here is a summary of the most interesting QSR news stories of the week from around the world.

A U.S. bankruptcy court judge approved the US$801 million sale of Pizza Hut and Wendy’s franchisee NPC International to Flynn Restaurant Group (FRG), as well as five existing operators of the burger chain. As reported by Restaurant Business, FRG - already the largest restaurant franchisee in the U.S. - will get 925 Pizza Hut locations and about half of NPC’s 393 Wendy’s units. Read more here.

Amidst growing competition in the U.S. chicken sandwich scene, Chick-fil-A said it is coming out with its first limited-time entrée offer since 2019 with the introduction of the Grilled Spicy Chicken Deluxe Sandwich. The Atlanta-based chicken chain has been testing the sandwich in specific markets, Restaurant Business reports. Read more here.

IHOP is adding six different types of burritos and bowls to its menu, continuing its move to compete with fast casual restaurants. As CNBC reports, the Dine Brands chain is hoping to entice customers with the easy portability of the burritos and bowls, which will be available all day. Read more here.

Sonic Drive-In is planning its first international expansion, Nation’s Restaurant News has reported. The chain is expected to leverage the international expertise of its parent company, Inspire Brands, to grow the concept outside the U.S. over the next couple of years. Read more here.

McDonald’s is running a new mobile app promotion where they are offering throwback pricing on select menu items with a minimum $1 in-app purchase every Thursday through 18 February 18, 2021. This, according to Chewboom’s report, includes a $0.25 cheeseburger offer. Read more here.