Burger King Holdings noted that North American company comparable store sales were down less than the franchises, at -2.8% company versus -4.9% for its franchises.

WSJ reports an old story: In an effort to convince consumers to open their wallets wider, franchisors are not only requiring franchisees to officiate (and pay) for new promotions, but they are also requiring franchisees to serve new products, extend operating hours and hand over more profits.