Weekly Global News Wrap: KFC sees potential to triple in size; Chipotle to gamify mental health goals for staff; Popeyes debuts new chicken sandwich

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

KFC says it believes it can triple its size, aiming to reach 75,000 stores. As reported by Nation's Restaurant News, 90% of the company’s growth in the last five years has been from overseas markets, with 70% of growth coming from outside of the US and China. Read more here.

Yum! Brands is set to acquire its third technology company this year, having agreed to buy Australia-based Dragontail Systems Limited for A$93.5 million (US$72.5 million). As Restaurant Business noted, the company uses artificial intelligence to automate the kitchen flow process, combined with a process for dispatching drivers. Read more here.

Chipotle said its workers will soon be able to earn gift cards, healthcare discounts and other benefits by achieving well-being goals set on virtual wellness platform Strive, the restaurant announced. As Restaurant Dive noted, the chain’s restaurant managers, field leaders and restaurant support center workers will gain access to the platform next month. Read more here. 

Amidst U.S. fast food restaurants struggling to attract staff as its economy reopens, a McDonald's restaurant in Illinois that is giving away iPhones to new recruits if they stay for six months, Business Insider reports. Read more here.

Popeyes debuted a new chicken sandwich, available in select states in the United States. As Business Insider reported, the Blackened Chicken Sandwich arrives two years after its release of its original Chicken Sandwich. Read more here.