🚀 Restaurants cashing in on protein obsession

Market Overview
Read time 1.4 minutes

Year To Date Performances:

1. Restaurants across the U.S., from Starbucks to Smoothie King, are capitalizing on America’s protein obsession, with nearly 30% of menus now calling out protein compared to just 6% a decade ago, according to Datassential. The trend, driven by younger health-conscious consumers, social media influence, and even GLP-1 weight-loss drug users seeking to preserve muscle, has prompted chains to roll out new offerings like Starbucks’ upcoming 15-gram protein cold foam and Dutch Bros’ protein coffee, or to repackage existing items like Panda Express’ “protein plates” and Chick-fil-A’s grilled nuggets as high-protein options. Fast-casual brands like Sweetgreen and IHOP are leaning in heavily, while smoothie shops and breakfast chains have long touted protein as a selling point. Experts say protein’s appeal lies in its health halo — it’s never been culturally vilified — though overconsumption can carry long-term risks. Some diners still prioritize cleaner cooking methods over macronutrient counts.

2. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy rejected President Donald Trump’s suggestion that Ukraine could “swap” territories with Russia as part of a ceasefire, declaring that Ukrainians “will not give their land to the occupier” and citing the country’s constitution. His comments came ahead of Trump’s planned meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska next Friday, where Trump hinted at possible territorial exchanges “to the betterment of both.” Russia’s demands reportedly include Ukraine ceding annexed territories and adopting permanent neutrality, conditions Kyiv has long refused. While the White House seeks support from Ukraine and European allies, Zelenskyy warned that any deal made without Ukraine would be “against peace.” The Alaska summit will be Trump and Putin’s first meeting since the invasion began, but analysts doubt it will produce a decisive breakthrough. Meanwhile, Russian forces continue their slow advance, with overnight drone strikes killing two and injuring six in Kherson.

3. Once the temples of postwar suburban consumerism, America’s enclosed malls are finding new life by swapping fading anchors like Macy’s and Sears for unexpected tenants ranging from bowling alleys and yoga studios to bookstores, grocery stores, and even churches. The Dayton Mall in Ohio, long plagued by vacancies, now draws thousands thanks to a local congregation that turned a shuttered Sears into a worship and community space, while landlords nationwide are subdividing old anchors into niche attractions that boost “cross-shopping” and revenue severalfold. Developers say Gen Z’s appetite for in-person socializing, the pull of nostalgia for older shoppers, and a shift toward experiential, mixed-use spaces are helping revive foot traffic—sometimes with Barnes & Noble, sometimes with laser tag, but rarely with perfume counters and escalators to nowhere.

   Headlines

   1. 23% of concertgoers are using buy now, pay later loans to fund their purchases.

   2. Bed Bath and Beyond has started its relaunch with it’s first store opening in Nashville.

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