In 2025, North Carolina’s food manufacturing sector saw a handful of significant plant closures, marking a challenging year for workers and communities tied to local food production. Among the most notable were the shutdown of a major baking facility in Greensboro and the unexpected closure of a snack food plant in Holly Ridge. Panera Bread dough production facility – Greensboro In Greensboro, Panera Bread announced the [...]
Skipping the booze this New Year’s? Shrubs are the tart, trendy drink to try
Are you tired of only having “virgin” versions of cocktails if you’re abstaining from alcohol? They’re typically high in sugar, and it can feel like an afterthought if you want a sober option. Shrubs (I’ll explain more about what they are next, if you’re unfamiliar) are a great alternative to sugary mocktails, and guess what? They even have some health benefits. What is a “shrub”? If you’ve noticed more menus featuring [...]
Wingstop to roll out its first ever loyalty program in 2026
Wingstop, the fast-casual chicken wing chain known for its variety of bold flavor offerings, is preparing to roll out its first ever company-wide loyalty program. The program has been dubbed Club Wingstop, and is expected to launch in the second quarter of 2026, following positive pilot testing in late 2025. The announcement was made as part of Wingstop’s recent earnings calls and investor updates, where executives [...]
DIY Gel Air Freshener
These gel air fresheners are a simple, natural way to add gentle fragrance to your home without sprays, flames, or synthetic ingredients. Made with unflavored gelatin and essential oils, they slowly release scent into the air and are perfect for bathrooms, bedrooms, entryways, or anywhere you want a light, steady aroma. One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. The base stays the same all year long [...]
Coca-Cola closes another U.S. factory as more shutdowns loom
After more than 65 years of bottling Coca-Cola products in Hawaii, the company’s only production plant in the state will close at the end of January 2026, marking the end of a long era of local soda manufacturing. The closure isn’t unique to Coca-Cola, which has already shuttered other locations in 2025, both in the US and around the world. Only Coca-Cola plant in Hawaii closed The facility on Mapunapuna Street in [...]
Dining out on Christmas Day? These restaurants are typically open nationwide
While Christmas Day is traditionally a time for home-cooked meals and family gatherings, not everyone celebrates the holiday — and not everyone wants to cook. According to stats from 2023, as many as two-thirds of American adults planned to eat out during the holidays. Across the U.S., several restaurant chains are expected to remain open on Christmas Day, offering options for travelers, essential workers, and families [...]
