January 31st QSR Roundup: Franchise Investment Insights, HeartBaker Pizza Returns, and Valentine's Food Deals

Interviewy Team

Interviewy Team

— 11 min read
January 31st QSR Roundup: Franchise Investment Insights, HeartBaker Pizza Returns, and Valentine's Food Deals
QSR news for Jan 31st, 2025. We reviewed 21 QSR publications, 6 subreddits, and over 90 articles to bring you the latest. Estimated reading time saved (at 200wpm): 345 minutes. It'll take you only 14 minutes to catch up.

Franchise Investment Insights: Pizza and Coffee Chains Expand

Source: QSR Magazine

Pizza and coffee franchises present unique investment opportunities, each with distinct focuses and profitability factors.

  • 44 new coffee brands have expanded in the U.S. within a year.
  • Pizza franchises like Domino's have franchise fees ranging from $5,000 to $25,000, with total investments exceeding $1 million.
  • Coffee franchises such as Dunkin' require startup investments between $437,500 to $1,787,700.
  • Pizza focuses on the supply chain and delivery systems, while coffee emphasizes customer service and speed.
  • Profit margins for both range from 12% to 18%, influenced by existing operations and market alignment.

Both markets offer solid opportunities for entrepreneurs, but success depends on managing specific challenges and leveraging operational strengths.

Chipotle's Investment in Mediterranean Concept Brassica

Source: QSR Magazine

Chipotle has invested in Brassica, a Mediterranean fast-casual chain founded by former Chipotle GM Kevin Malhame.

Brassica offers:

  • Fresh, high-quality Mediterranean cuisine in a customizable format similar to Chipotle.
  • A dining experience with marble tables and original artwork.
  • In-restaurant dining accounts for 50% of sales.

Chipotle's minority investment supports Brassica's expansion while maintaining its unique brand identity.

Honoring Black History Month at Biscuitville

Source: QSR Magazine

Biscuitville celebrates Black History Month by honoring:

  • Edna Lewis, an influential chef renowned for her Southern cuisine, awarded a U.S. Postal Service stamp.
  • Alon Vanterpool, Director of Internal Communications, recognized for enhancing employee engagement and promoting inclusivity.

Their contributions highlight the importance of diversity and cultural recognition within the culinary industry.

Papa Murphy’s HeartBaker Pizza Returns for Valentine's Day ❤️

Source: QSR Magazine

Just in time for Valentine's Day, Papa Murphy’s brings back the beloved HeartBaker Pizza.

  • Available from February 1 to 14, offering a large cheese or pepperoni pizza for $11.
  • The Sweetheart of a Deal Bundle includes the HeartBaker Pizza and Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough for $14.
  • Customizable cooking at home ensures a hot and fresh meal perfect for romantic dinners or family fun.

According to Tracey Ayres, VP of Brand and Innovation, it's about making memorable moments with loved ones.

Wing Snob’s Valentine’s Special: Any 2 for You and Your Boo 🍗❤️

Source: QSR Magazine

Wing Snob celebrates Valentine's Day with a special combo:

  • 'Any 2 for You and Your Boo' runs from February 10 to 16.
  • Includes two chicken sandwiches, large fries, and two drinks for $22.22.
  • Known for diverse sauces and rubs, encouraging guests to mix and match.

Whether dining in or taking to-go, it's perfect for couples or friends to share a delicious meal.

Sweet Treats at Scooter's Coffee: Strawberry Sweetheart Mocha 🍓☕️

Source: QSR Magazine

Scooter's Coffee introduces:

  • Strawberry Sweetheart Mocha: A blend of chocolate-covered strawberries and espresso, topped with whipped cream and mocha drizzle.
  • Red Velvet Cake Bite: Red velvet cake mixed with cream cheese frosting, dipped in white chocolate with red sprinkles.

Available for a limited time at all locations, these treats add a sweet touch to the season.

Super Bowl Seafood Promotion: Free King Crab Legs 🦀

Source: QSR Magazine

FultonFishMarket.com partners with Jameis Winston for a Super Bowl promotion:

  • Get 1 lb of FREE Wild Golden King Crab Legs (valued at $80) when spending $170+ on seafood.
  • Use promo code EATTHECRAB at checkout until June 30.
  • Offering fresh seafood delivery for over 200 years, making home entertaining easier.

A&W Restaurants Opens 10 New Locations in 2024 🍔

Source: QSR Magazine

A&W Restaurants announces:

  • Opened 10 new locations in 2024, totaling 429 locations opened or in development.
  • Growth strategy focuses on existing franchisees and sustainable expansion.
  • Technological advancements include a new centralized POS system and improved online ordering.
  • Recognized in Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500, seeking franchise partners for further growth.

Shake Shack Strengthens Leadership for Growth

Sources: QSR Magazine and Fast Casual

Shake Shack appoints new executives:

  • Steph So promoted to Chief Growth Officer, leading digital marketing and culinary innovation.
  • Luke DeRouen joins as Chief Communications Officer, overseeing brand strategy.
  • Nancy Combs added as SVP of Culinary and Calendar Innovation.

CEO Rob Lynch emphasizes their roles in expanding Shake Shack's footprint and driving growth.

Chef Jessica Roy's Culinary Journey and Garden-to-Table Excellence 🌿🍴

Source: FSR Magazine

Chef Jessica Roy of 608 Dahlia in California is celebrated for:

  • Signature buttermilk chive and Gruyère biscuits made with organic flour and aged Gruyère.
  • Transforming local ingredients into exquisite dishes, emphasizing a garden-to-table philosophy.

Her background:

  • Early passion for cooking, starting with an Easy-Bake Oven.
  • Experience at Alinea, a three-Michelin-star restaurant in Chicago.
  • Combines precision, creativity, and resilience in her culinary approach.

608 Dahlia boasts a five-star OpenTable rating, becoming a dining destination featuring seasonal dishes and cocktails.

Chili's Record Sales Growth: A 31% Increase in Q2 🍽️

Sources: Restaurant Dive and Nation's Restaurant News

Chili’s reports:

  • 31% increase in comparable sales for fiscal Q2 2025, a new record.
  • Nearly 20% rise in customer traffic.

Key factors:

  • Heavy advertising investments focusing on value.
  • Menu enhancements with fresh ingredients like freshly made guacamole.
  • Improvements in kitchen efficiency with a new display system.
  • Successful promotion of Triple Dipper appetizers, doubling sales share.

CEO Kevin Hochman is optimistic about continuing this momentum.

Restaurant Industry Challenges and Opportunities in 2025

Source: Restaurant Dive

In 2025, the industry faces:

  • Intense competition among fast-casual chains to attract price-sensitive diners.
  • Economic improvements may enhance access to capital for speed and efficiency improvements.
  • Growing tech focus in operational and consumer-facing services.
  • Chains revamping dining spaces to encourage longer visits, inspired by Starbucks and Cava.

Adaptation is crucial for QSR and casual brands to stay competitive.

Starbucks Growth and Menu Streamlining ☕️

Sources: Restaurant Dive, Food Business News, Salon

Starbucks introduces:

  • Ceramic mugs and free refills to enhance the coffeehouse experience.
  • Plans to double U.S. store count by adding approximately 10,000 locations.
  • Implementing a sequencing algorithm for mobile orders to reduce congestion.
  • Rolling out digital menu boards and reducing menu items by 30% by the end of fiscal year 2025.

The aim is to optimize menus, improve efficiency, and respond to changing customer preferences.

Zuni Cafe's Roast Chicken: The Secret to No-Smoke Perfection 🍗

Source: Eater

Zuni Cafe is famous for its:

  • Roasted chicken with bread salad, a dish popular since 1994.

Challenges in replicating at home:

  • Traditional high-heat roasting at 475°F can cause smoke and requires flipping the bird three times.

Solution:

  • Spatchcocking the chicken allows even cooking at a lower temperature, reducing smoke.
  • The adapted recipe takes about 1 hour, yielding crispy skin and juicy meat.

Chef Ivy Manning shares her journey in making this classic dish accessible without the fuss.

Community Supports First Responders After Tragic Collision 🚑

Source: Eater DC

In response to a midair collision over the Potomac River:

  • José Andrés’s World Central Kitchen and local chefs mobilized to support first responders.
  • Matt Adler and Rasa provided meals and over 300 vibrant bowls.
  • D.C. Central Kitchen offered hot lunches from a mobile delivery truck.

The community's quick response highlights solidarity and support for those aiding in recovery efforts.

Zassenhaus Bread Slicer: A Game Changer for Sourdough Lovers 🍞

Source: Eater

The Zassenhaus Manual Bread Slicer:

  • Makes slicing homemade sourdough easier and safer.
  • Features a hand-crank mechanism and sturdy suction cups.
  • Provides even, bakery-like slices in just two minutes.
  • An investment at $200, but saves money and effort over time.

Praised for its functionality and design, it could prevent bakers from giving up on homemade bread.

Cheba Hut's Thriving Growth 🌿🥪

Source: Fast Casual

Cheba Hut Toasted Subs reports:

  • Record sales of nearly 9.7 million subs, a 23% year-over-year increase.
  • Opened 16 new locations in Oklahoma and Iowa.
  • Achieved $150 million in total sales.

CEO Marc Torres attributes success to their unique culture and vibe.

Future goals:

  • Grow to 200 stores by 2030.
  • Aim for $3 million in average unit volume.

Jason's Deli Unveils New Look 🍴

Source: Fast Casual

Jason's Deli introduces:

  • A refreshed visual identity and restaurant design by ChangeUp.
  • Emphasizes "The Art of Deli-cious," showcasing commitment to quality food and customer experience.
  • Modern features like digital kiosks, efficient salad bar design, and enhanced packaging.
  • All upcoming locations will adopt this new identity.

Established in 1976, Jason's Deli operates over 240 locations across 27 states.

Pepper Lunch Expands in Orange County 🍛

Source: Fast Casual

Pepper Lunch is opening:

  • A second location in Orange County on February 7 at the Irvine Spectrum Center.
  • Known for its Japanese-inspired dining concept with sizzling hotplates.
  • Aims to attract both local patrons and first-time diners.

Founded in 1994, Pepper Lunch is steadily growing across the U.S.

Mokas Coffee’s Franchise Growth ☕️

Source: Fast Casual

Mokas Coffee & Eatery, co-founded by Freddy's Scott Redler, announces:

  • Franchise expansion with first franchisee Christian Coleman, targeting Kansas counties.
  • Plans for a grand opening by spring 2026.
  • Leverages Mokas' unique franchising model for swift development.

JRI Hospitality, founded in 2011, operates over 90 restaurants across 15 states.

Source: Modern Restaurant Management

Key insights:

  • 71% of restaurant leaders plan to enhance customer loyalty programs.
  • 85% aim to integrate AI and automation to improve efficiencies.
  • 68% of consumers find loyalty programs valuable; 63% are cutting restaurant spending.
  • Pizza loyalty remains strong; one in seven Americans hasn't changed their pizza order in five years.
  • Wine cork market expected to grow from $22.25 billion in 2024 to $42.30 billion by 2033.

The industry is adapting to economic pressures by focusing on technology and customer engagement.

Source: Food Business News

Flavor trends:

  • Global flavors influencing local markets.
  • Yuzu, sudachi, and calamansi gaining popularity in reduced-sugar drinks.
  • Sichuan spices, Indian masalas, and Korean barbecue inspiring new products.

Cookie innovations:

  • Keebler Co. launches Fudge Stripes double fudge cookies.
  • Oreo teams up with Post Malone for a limited-edition cookie.
  • Ferrero introduces Kinderini cookies in the U.S.

Brands are focusing on flavor innovations to keep products exciting for consumers.

Advancements in Food Preservation and Production

Source: Food Business News

  • Innophos launches Levair ESL to extend bread shelf life, addressing microbial growth.
  • FlavorSum introduces the Modulate line to mask bitterness and enhance mouthfeel in food and beverages.
  • Kemin Industries launches Olessence, plant extract blends to enhance flavor and preserve freshness.
  • Kerry's 2025 Taste Charts showcase emerging flavor trends influenced by global tastes.

These innovations aim to improve product quality, shelf life, and meet consumer demands for better taste and sustainability.

Source: Food Business News

  • U.S. cattle inventory is at 87.2 million, the smallest in 73 years.
  • Strategies focus on efficiency, productivity, and sustainability.
  • Investment in grazing lands and technological advances in genetics.
  • Rising demand for sustainability influences production.

Uncertainty remains about how sustainability premiums will affect profits amidst changing policies.

Monster Beverage's Confident Growth Outlook 🥤

Source: Food Business News

Despite a decline in U.S. convenience store sales, Monster Beverage Corp. expects:

  • A 7.6% global CAGR for energy drinks.
  • Sales to rise from $84.3 billion in 2025 to $111.5 billion in 2029.

Key points:

  • Since 2003, Monster has maintained a 23.2% CAGR, with $7.1 billion in sales for 2023.
  • The company emphasizes products without harmful dyes or high-fructose corn syrup.
  • Upcoming flavor releases in 2025 respond to health-conscious consumers.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Advocates Overhaul of the Food Industry

Source: Food Business News

Kennedy highlights:

  • Rising chronic diseases linked to the U.S. food supply.
  • Obesity has soared from 3% to 74% since the 1960s.
  • Calls for scrutinizing the 10,000 ingredients allowed in U.S. foods compared to fewer in Europe and Canada.
  • Supports shifting federal funding away from processed foods in programs like SNAP and school lunches.
  • Urges for less chemically intensive agricultural practices to prevent soil depletion.

Kennedy emphasizes the importance of nutrition and awareness of food additives' impact on health.

Starbucks Menu Reduction and Operational Changes 🍵

Source: Salon

Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol announces:

  • Plan to reduce food and beverage offerings by 30% by the end of fiscal year 2025.
  • Aims to optimize menus and embrace innovation.
  • Focus on removing lower-selling items for a cleaner, more efficient menu.
  • Enhancements to mobile ordering and customization features.

These changes respond to customer feedback and aim to improve efficiency and satisfaction.

Mango Farming Thrives Amid Climate Change 🌴🥭

Source: Grist

Due to climate change:

  • Farmers in places like Sicily, California, and Florida are turning to mango cultivation.
  • Traditional crops like olives are diminishing.
  • Mango production is expected to increase to 65 million metric tons next year.
  • Warmer conditions are making previously unsuitable regions ideal for mango farming.

This shift underscores the agricultural adaptability required in response to global warming.

Lab-Grown Meat Faces Political Challenges 🍖

Source: Grist

Lab-grown meat companies like Upside Foods:

  • Aim to win over Republicans with a pro-business narrative.
  • Face regulatory hurdles and criticisms from figures like RFK Jr. questioning safety.
  • Some states have banned lab-grown meat entirely.
  • Environmental concerns suggest current lab methods may not be as eco-friendly as hoped.

The industry navigates political and environmental challenges while promoting innovation and sustainability.

Wetzel's Pretzels Expands Beyond Malls 🥨

Source: Networld Media Group

Wetzel's Pretzels reports:

  • Record-breaking growth in store openings outside traditional malls.
  • Opened their first international location in Indonesia.
  • Plans to test a breakfast menu next.
  • Menu evolution includes classic and innovative snack offerings.

The brand focuses on high-traffic locations and food trucks to reach more customers.

Sources: Food & Beverage, /r/fastfood

Subway partners with Oreo to create:

  • The Oreo Footlong Cookie, featuring Subway's chocolate cookie dough and Oreo pieces topped with vanilla cream.
  • Over 13 million Footlong Cookies sold since launch.
  • Reactions are mixed, with some fans excited and others expressing skepticism.

Subway continues to innovate with unique dessert offerings.

_Hardee's Heart-Shaped Biscuits Return for Valentine's Day 💕

Source: Fast Casual

Hardee's brings back:

  • Heart-shaped biscuits available from February 1 to 16.
  • Made from scratch daily starting at 4 a.m..
  • Country star Thomas Rhett joins in, highlighting how food can express affection.

A seasonal favorite that connects with customers during Valentine's celebrations.

Restaurant Owners Discuss Challenges and Ideas

Sources: /r/restaurantowners, /r/Restaurant_Managers, /r/restaurant, /r/BarOwners

Topics covered include:

  • Menu app development for small businesses seeking better management tools.
  • Recommendations for sturdy yet elegant glassware to balance quality and cost.
  • Aspirations and warnings about the dream of owning a restaurant, emphasizing the challenges.
  • Ideas for social media marketing to boost visibility and engagement.
  • Strategies for streamlining catering orders with appropriate software.
  • Discussions on tipping practices and customer complaints.

These conversations reflect the ongoing challenges and collaborative efforts within the restaurant industry.

Dominique Crenn Inducted into MenuMasters Hall of Fame 🌟

Source: Nation's Restaurant News

Highlights:

  • Dominique Crenn, chef and co-owner of Atelier Crenn, will be inducted into the MenuMasters Hall of Fame.
  • First female chef in the U.S. to receive three Michelin stars.
  • Recognized for culinary excellence and sustainability efforts.
  • Induction ceremony on May 17 at Morgan MFG in Chicago.

A significant honor acknowledging her contributions to the culinary world.

Chuck E. Cheese's Transformation and Growth 🎉

Source: Nation's Restaurant News

Chuck E. Cheese invests $350 million in:

  • Upgrading locations with new games and features.
  • Introducing daily changing themes and interactive experiences.
  • Sales increased by 6.7% to $370.1 million from 2022 to 2023.
  • Launched a tiered Summer Pass and a birthday program.

The brand focuses on value for parents and engaging experiences for kids, planning international expansion.

Angel Reese Collaborates with McDonald's for New Meal 🍔🏀

Sources: Nation's Restaurant News, Food & Beverage

McDonald's introduces:

  • The Angel Reese Special, a BBQ Bacon Quarter Pounder with cheese, fries, and a drink.
  • First national meal collaboration with a female athlete, basketball champion Angel Reese.
  • Available starting Feb. 10 while supplies last.

Celebrates Reese's achievements and connects with basketball fans.

TGI Fridays Closes Locations; Twin Peaks Goes Public 🍻

Source: Nation's Restaurant News

  • TGI Fridays closes 30 locations, now operating 133 in the U.S.
  • Twin Peaks spins off from Fat Brands, becomes a publicly traded company on Nasdaq.
  • Plans for expansion using IPO funds.

These developments indicate shifts in the casual dining sector, with some brands consolidating while others expand.

Source: Nation's Restaurant News

Nation's Restaurant News launches:

  • NRN Influencer Insider, a series exploring how social media influencers impact the food industry.
  • Collaborates with Belle Communication's Brilli platform.
  • Aims to help restaurant leaders engage with influencers to adapt to evolving guest behaviors.

Recognizes the significant role of content creators in shaping dining experiences and marketing strategies.

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