California's $20 Minimum Wage Prompts Fast Food Chains to Cut Hours, Raise Prices

Franchise owners adjust operations to manage increased labor costs, citing challenges and early benefits.

Wendy's and Jersey Mike's franchisees have reduced staff hours and increased menu prices.
Some operators, like Lawrence Cheng, are filling in shifts themselves to manage costs.
The new wage law has led to job cuts, with one Jersey Mike's owner reducing part-time staff by 20 employees.
Despite operational challenges, the fast food sector added 8,000 jobs in the first two months post-law.
Higher wages are attracting better job candidates, potentially reducing turnover rates.