Weekly Global News Wrap: Just Eat weighs Grubhub sale; Chipotle’s US$50m venture fund; Panera widens coffee subscription programme

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

Barely a year after buying the company, Just Eat Takeaway.com is considering selling Grubhub after its U.S. subsidiary reported a decline in orders following a boom in sales during Covid-19 lockdowns. Read more from the Wall Street Journal.

Starbucks filed two complaints with the U.S.’ National Labor Relations Board, alleging that the union organizing its baristas broke federal labor law. Starbucks Workers United, in response, said the allegations are a “continuation of Starbucks’ war against its own partners.” Read more from CNBC.

Chipotle has created a new venture fund that will provide early-stage investments to companies that align with the brand’s mission. The initial size of the fund will be US$50 million and will support Series B stage companies that can help accelerate Chipotle's strategic priorities, which include improving operations, amplifying technology, advancing its Food With Integrity mission and increasing convenience for consumers. Read more from Restaurant Dive.

Popeyes is set to open more than 200 new locations in the United States and Canada this year, the company announced. Additional locations in several other places around the world are planned, including in South Korea, France, India, China and the United Kingdom. Read more from CNN.

Panera Bread is expanding its coffee subscription program to all 26 drinks across its beverage program. The newly named Unlimited Sip Club will be available across all Panera restaurants and will cost $10.99 per month instead of $8.99. Read more from Nation’s Restaurant News.