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

Popeyes’ U.S. same-store sales soared more than 40% as of the third full week of May amidst the pandemic. As reported by CNBC, the latest results are an improvement from the second half of March, when Popeyes’ same-store sales were flat compared with the year-ago period. Read morehere. The chicken chain also announced that it would roll out a new logo, restaurant design, and food packaging. As reported by Business Insider, the chain's new look is part of "The Modern Popeyes Renaissance," a larger initiative to expand the chain's presence around the world. Read morehere.

Subwayfranchisees in the U.S. are pushing back against another attempt to bring back the US$5 Footlong. As reported by Restaurant Business, the company’s franchisee association urged operators not to go along with the program unless it is strictly tied to ordering through the company’s mobile app. Read morehere.

Panera Breadhas hired Eduardo Luz as its chief brand and concept officer. As reported by Fast Casual, he will be overseeing marketing, digital, strategy/insights and culinary teams. Read morehere.

Dine Brands, the parent company of Applebee’s, has started its search for a new CEO. In an announcement, the company retained executive search firm Spencer Stuart to assist them in finding a successor for Steve Joyce, whose employment agreement will expire in February 2021. Read morehere.

U.S. burger conceptWahlburgershas appointed industry veteran John Fuller as its new president and CEO. Fuller previously served as president and CEO of The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf and Johnny Rockets. Read morehere.