Weekly Global News Wrap: KFC's revamped store designs revealed; More ex-franchisees join McDonald's discrimination lawsuit; Pizza Hut's weighted blanket

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

Another 27 Black former franchisees of McDonald’s have joined a discrimination lawsuit against the franchise, bringing to the number of ex-operators that claim the company did not afford them the same rights as their White counterparts to 77. Restaurant Business reports the claims now include nearly 300 restaurants, with damages of between $4 million or $5 million per store. Read more here.

Starbucks is raising hourly wages for its baristas as the American restaurant industry braces for a higher minimum wage once U.S. President-elect Joe Biden takes office. In an internal memo obtained by CNBC, baristas, shift supervisors and cafe attendants who were hired before 24 September will receive a pay increase of at least 10% starting 14 December. Read more here.

Wendy’s has submitted a bid for the restaurants operated by bankrupt franchisee NPC International as part of a consortium of operators seeking to take over the nearly 400 locations. Restaurant Business reports the bulk of those stores would end up in the hands of franchisees, as the fast food chain wants to keep its ownership level at around 5% of its 5,800 U.S. units. Read more here.

KFC is redesigning its restaurants for the COVID-19 era, offering a revamp that emphasizes the drive-thru and limits human contact. As reported by CNN, two new designs either ditch the traditional dining room or put an emphasis on drive-thru. Read more here.

Pizza Hut has launched a limited-edition weighted blanket that looks like a pepperoni pizza, Business Insider reported. The blanket, which costs US$150, is styled after the chain's Original Pan Pizza, and weighs 15 pounds. Read more here.