Which Expanding Food Chains Would You Like to See Open in Quincy and Hannibal in 2026?

The world of franchised restaurants is changing. Throughout our lives hamburgers and pizza restaurants have dominated the fast-food franchises. In 2026 the surge of chicken places will continue, and burger places will keep shrinking.

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Food industry experts have spotted several food franchises prepared to grow in 2026, perhaps into Illinois and Missouri. Some you may have heard of, or even eaten at in other areas. Some are pretty new, but growing quickly. Would you like to see any of these restaurants expand into the Quincy/Hannibal market?

CAVA – Mediterranean food bowls and pitas. Already established in 29 states including Illinois and one spot in Missouri.

Dave’s Hot Chicken – Houston TX Hot Chicken-  Hot chicken is a growing style and Dave's has a head start with locations across the country while Houston TX Hot Chicken is still only in the Lone Star State.

Layne’s Chicken Fingers has an excellent reputation for their chicken and multiple sauce flavors with dozens of locations and growing from Texas northward.

Sweetgreen – fast-casual salad? Many places have salad on the menu, by Sweetgreen focuses on the salad of it all. With locations in 24 states (including Washington DC), there is definitely green in salad.

Via 313 – Detroit style pizza is based out of Austin, Texas and growing with locations in three states.

You’ll notice that none of those are burger places. Last year Whataburger made some noise about expanding into Missouri. There are currently 11 total in Missouri and none in Illinois. Would you rather see a Whataburger or Five Guys open in the area before any of the above? Where?

Is Palmyra ready to to get into the franchise restaurant game beyond Hardee's and Wendy's?

I doubt Whataburger will place their first Illinois location in Quincy. But, Hannibal –or maybe Palmyra would be an option. As Palmyra continues to grow, will it seek out repeat franchises from Hannibal or Quincy? Or try to blaze a new trail, aiming to draw in customers from both locations?