Illinois still does not have a Buc-ee’s, and that is starting to look more noticeable. The Texas-based travel center chain has been expanding across the South, Midwest and East, opening huge stores with rows of fuel pumps, barbecue sandwiches, a wall of beef jerky, Beaver Nuggets, clean bathrooms and more merchandise than many small-town gift shops. But while Illinois drivers are still waiting, several nearby states are [...]

New Jersey has no shortage of restaurants, but some closings still feel bigger than a routine business update. This month, diners across the state are saying goodbye to several familiar spots, adding to a difficult stretch for local restaurants. The losses follow other recent New Jersey goodbyes, including a wave of longtime favorites that shut down across the state. From a 37-year Ridgewood fine dining restaurant pushed [...]

Burger wars are heating up again, and Burger King believes it finally has a strategy to reclaim the crown. After years of lagging behind rivals like McDonald's and Wendy's, the fast-food giant says its comeback plan could take decades — but early signs suggest the turnaround is already gaining momentum. A long-term turnaround strategy The company’s revival effort centers around its “Reclaim the Flame” initiative, a [...]

THC-infused beverages are rapidly gaining popularity across the United States as more consumers look for alternatives to traditional alcoholic drinks. Industry analysts say the trend is beginning to reshape parts of the beverage market, especially among younger adults seeking low-calorie, alcohol-free social options. THC drinks gain mainstream attention Cannabis beverages containing hemp-derived THC have expanded far [...]

Costco has one of the most loyal customer bases in retail, but not every shopper is feeling the love lately. Across Reddit discussions about the warehouse club, some shoppers say the Costco experience has become too crowded, too time-consuming, or simply not as good a deal as it used to be. While plenty of members still defend the chain’s low prices, Kirkland Signature products, and famous food court deals, others say the [...]

North Carolina's restaurant scene keeps changing, but some closings still feel bigger than a routine business update. In recent weeks, diners across the state have had to say goodbye to several familiar spots, adding to a difficult stretch for local restaurants. The losses follow other recent North Carolina goodbyes, including a popular Charlotte restaurant that was forced out after nearly 19 years. From a beloved Durham [...]