March 15th QSR Roundup: Dining Alone in Cars, Top Franchise for Women, and More QSR topics from Reddit

QSR news for Mar 15th, 2025. We reviewed 21 QSR publications, 6 subreddits, and over 68 articles to bring you the latest. Estimated reading time saved (at 200wpm): 225 minutes. It'll take you only 15 minutes to catch up.
Kona Ice's Innovations Delight Health-Conscious Consumers
Kona Ice celebrated its annual Konvention with exciting new products:
- Blended Smoothies: Offering three servings of fruit per cup, flavors include Strawberry, Tropical Breeze, Mango, and Strawberry Banana.
- Edible Kona Kandy Spoons: A fun and eco-friendly replacement for disposable utensils.
- New Flavor in Topz Line: Introduced Green Apple to expand choices.
The company has also given back over $200 million to communities, emphasizing its mission of community support.
Source: QSR Magazine
Ellianos Coffee: A Top Franchise for Women
Ellianos Coffee was named a 2025 Top Franchise for Women by Franchise Business Review. Key highlights:
- Outperformed among 350 brands, based on feedback from nearly 9,000 female franchise owners.
- 88% of women franchisees enjoy their involvement with the brand.
- CEO Mallory Pruitt is proud of fostering opportunities for women in the coffee industry.
- Ellianos is expanding in the Southeast, seeking franchisees in Alabama, Tennessee, South Carolina, and North Carolina.
Source: QSR Magazine
Dickey's Barbecue Brings Texas Flavor to Toronto
Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants opened a new location in Toronto, Ontario:
- Located at 2150 Bloor Street W.
- Offers iconic slow-smoked meats like brisket and ribs.
- Franchisee Muhammad Sameer aims to provide an authentic Texas barbecue experience.
Special promotions and giveaways are part of the grand opening celebrations.
Source: QSR Magazine
The Rise of Dining Alone in Cars
The trend of solo dining is increasing as off-premises dining becomes more popular:
- Many consumers are choosing to eat alone, often in their cars.
- This shift presents challenges and opportunities for restaurants to adapt to changing behaviors.
Source: Restaurant Business
Starbucks Redesigns Cafes to Enhance Experience
Starbucks is testing new cafe designs focusing on:
- A more inviting atmosphere with comfortable seating and outlets for devices.
- Dedicated areas for mobile orders to streamline pickup.
- Enhancing the espresso-making experience for customers.
These changes aim to reclaim Starbucks' place as a social hub.
Source: Restaurant Business
Fast-Food Traffic Dips Amid Consumer Cutbacks
Fast-food restaurants face declining traffic:
- Overall traffic down 2.8% in February.
- Breakfast visits plunged 12.6%, as consumers skip morning meals.
- Lunch traffic decreased by 3.6%, while dinner traffic slightly increased by 0.5%.
- Price hikes led to a 3.6% increase in average check amounts.
Chains like McDonald's report significant drops in visits from low-income customers.
Source: Restaurant Business
Restaurants Adapt Five Years Post-Pandemic
Significant changes in the restaurant industry include:
- Sales Rebound: Recovering from a drop to $31 billion in April 2020 to surpassing pre-pandemic sales by May 2021.
- Workforce Impact: Nearly 48% of restaurant employees lost jobs; independents were hit hardest.
- Consumer Habits: Increased spending on dining out but with higher expectations and sensitivity to pricing.
- Delivery Services Boom: Growth of platforms like DoorDash and Uber Eats.
- Shift to Remote Work: The percentage of people working from home doubled, affecting customer demographics.
Source: Restaurant Business
Leadership Changes Across Restaurants
Notable executive appointments:
- Amanda Potts joins A&W Restaurants as VP of Marketing and Innovation.
- Tom Leeper becomes Senior VP of Operations at Slice House by Tony Gemignani.
- Fred Frey is the new VP of Franchise Development at 16 Handles.
- Jodie Chau named VP of Supply Chain at HTeaO.
- Steven Adyani promoted to COO at Mountain Mike's Pizza.
These changes aim to drive growth and operational excellence.
Source: Restaurant Business
Fast-Food Industry Updates
Key developments:
- El Pollo Loco plans a brand relaunch for modernity and consistency.
- McDonald’s forms a new Restaurant Experience Team to specialize in fast-food operations.
- Starbucks redesigns stores to create a more inviting atmosphere.
- Wonder merges with Tastemade to establish a media network.
These initiatives reflect efforts to enhance competitiveness and customer experience.
Source: Restaurant Business
TGI Fridays Celebrates 60 Years
Highlights of the celebration:
- Hosting global events on March 15, including a $19.65 meal deal.
- Reintroducing the Long Island Iced Tea in collectible cups.
- Launching the #ShareYourFlair social media challenge.
- Aiming to enhance guest experiences in nearly 400 locations worldwide.
TGI Fridays continues to emphasize its cultural significance and inclusive spirit.
Source: FSR Magazine
Golden Corral Honors First Responders
Golden Corral in California offers:
- Free buffet for first responders on March 18, from 4 p.m. to close.
- Valid for those in uniform or with ID.
- Continues the tradition of community support, similar to their Military Appreciation Night.
Guests can enjoy over 150 items, reflecting Golden Corral's commitment to variety and quality.
Source: FSR Magazine
Home Run Inn Pizza Lands at O'Hare Airport
Key points:
- Home Run Inn Pizza opens in O'Hare International Airport's Terminal 1.
- Serves classic Chicago-style pizzas like cheese and sausage.
- Part of a broader expansion within the airport to showcase local cuisine.
- Enhances the traveler experience by offering a taste of Chicago's food culture.
Source: FSR Magazine
Nathan's Famous Opens Modern Standalone Location
Highlights:
- New restaurant in Rock Hill, South Carolina, featuring a modern design.
- Includes a double drive-thru and updated point-of-sale systems.
- Offers specialty ripper dogs and blends New York loft style with local architecture.
- Aims to reverse the decline in domestic store counts and expand virtual kitchen programs.
Source: Restaurant Dive
Casey's General Stores Boosts Sales with Food Innovation
Notable achievements:
- Inside same-store sales increased by 3.7% in Q3 fiscal 2025.
- Introduction of Darn Good Coffee and chicken wings in test markets.
- Hot sandwich sales surged over 50%; bakery items grew nearly 10%.
- Innovation in fresh food drives growth more than promotions.
Source: Restaurant Dive
Restaurants Face Staffing Shortages Post-Pandemic
Key challenges:
- Significant labor shortages as many workers didn't return post-pandemic.
- Hiring difficulties despite higher wages; experienced staff are scarce.
- Restaurants invest more in training due to less skilled new hires.
- Industry shifts toward offering comprehensive benefits and better work environments.
Source: Eater
Laurie Woolever's Memoir 'Care and Feeding'
Insights:
- Memoir offers a humorous and candid look at her life in NYC.
- Explores themes of addiction and working with Mario Batali and Anthony Bourdain.
- Discusses the complexities of her professional relationships.
- Highlights the cathartic yet challenging process of writing.
Source: Eater
Fast-Food Chains Embrace Seafood for Lent
Highlights:
- Wendy’s offers the Crispy Panko Fish Sandwich until April 20.
- Other chains like Del Taco, Arby’s, and Popeyes expand Lenten menus.
- Lent influences consumer choices, leading to 75 million Filet-O-Fish sold by McDonald's during the season.
- Calls for more inclusive menus for various cultural observances.
Source: Eater
Ninja CREAMi's Swirl Adds Soft-Serve Option
Features:
- Ninja Swirl by CREAMi offers 13 dessert programs, including soft-serve.
- Requires overnight freezing of bases; weighs 21 pounds.
- Users enjoy turning protein shakes into frozen treats.
- Priced at $350, it delivers scoopable ice cream superior to many home machines.
Ideal for health-conscious dessert lovers with space for the appliance.
Source: Eater
Making Corned Beef at Home Simplified
Tips:
- Brining takes about a week; cooking takes 3.5 hours.
- Use pink curing salt, sugar, garlic, and spices for flavor.
- Flat cut brisket is recommended for easy slicing.
- Minimal effort after initial prep; simply turn the brining bag occasionally.
- End result is a delightful pink brisket perfect with cabbage and potatoes.
Source: Eater
Plant-Based Eggs Rise Amid Egg Shortages
Key points:
- U.S. faces severe egg shortage due to avian influenza.
- Egg prices soared by 132%; predictions near $5 per dozen in 2025.
- Plant-based egg alternatives offer cost stability and health benefits.
- These alternatives are cholesterol-free and more sustainable.
- Food businesses consider plant-based options to mitigate supply issues.
Source: Total Food Service
Red Gold's All-American Tomato Success
Highlights:
- Red Gold began in 1942, supporting WWII efforts.
- Family-owned, focusing on high-quality, American-made tomato products.
- Brands include Red Gold®, Redpack®, Tuttorosso®.
- Supports Folds of Honor with educational scholarships.
- Led the way in BPA-free packaging and offers clean-label products.
- Committed to supporting foodservice operations with quality tomatoes.
Source: Total Food Service
Tariff Concerns Among Restaurant Operators
Important notes:
- 45% of restaurant operators fear financial trouble due to tariffs.
- Potential costs could exceed $12 billion.
- Consumers might cut back on dining out if prices increase.
- Fine dining may suffer more than fast casual due to price sensitivity.
Operators are looking for ways to mitigate impacts and retain customers.
Source: Modern Restaurant Management
Tech Transforming Restaurant Kitchens
Key developments:
- Adoption of Kitchen Display Systems (KDS) enhances efficiency.
- Replaces old paper tickets, reducing errors and improving order tracking.
- High-volume chains like Subway benefit from streamlined operations.
- Balances tradition with technology to survive in a modern market.
Embracing tech advances is essential for future kitchen management.
Source: Modern Restaurant Management
Supporting Small Farmers Through Cooperative Banking
Key information:
- Southern Farmers Financial Association (SFFA) aims to aid Black farmers.
- Faces uncertainty due to potential federal policy changes.
- Funding from the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) is at risk.
- Black farmers have historically faced discrimination and financial barriers.
- Emphasizes the need for financial literacy and cooperative support.
The SFFA seeks to lower credit access barriers and support rural communities.
Source: Civil Eats
Summer's New Frozen Treats
Exciting launches:
- JonnyPops introduces mini cream pops in fun flavors.
- Dreyer’s Grand Ice Cream offers the We Love Peanut Butter pack.
- Häagen-Dazs debuts new sorbet flavors like summer blueberry and lemon.
- Embracing bold fruit pairings for the summer season.
"Sorbet will be this summer's hottest treat," says Häagen-Dazs marketing head.
Source: Food Business News
Economic Uncertainty Amid Tariffs and Inflation
Key points:
- The U.S. economy shows signs of fragility with ongoing inflation and tariff threats.
- Government spending exceeds revenue, highlighting debt issues.
- GDP growth slows from 2.9% to a projected 2%.
- Job openings decline by one-third, but mass layoffs haven't occurred.
- Tariffs may increase consumer prices, adding to economic uncertainty.
Inflation rates show slight improvement, but overall outlook remains cautious.
Source: Food Business News
Innovations in Snacking Respond to Consumer Needs
Trends:
- Snacks as Meal Replacements: 1 in 4 calories consumed comes from snacks.
- Demand for convenient, nutrient-dense, and portion-controlled options.
- GLP-1 Compatible: Snacks designed for those on weight loss medications.
- Manufacturers explore alternative ingredients due to commodity challenges.
- Emphasis on brand trust and balancing taste with health benefits.
Taste remains a critical factor in customer satisfaction.
Source: Food Business News
West Virginia Moves to Ban Synthetic Food Colors
Important developments:
- House Bill No. 2354 aims to prohibit specific synthetic colors in foods.
- Ban includes colors like Red No. 3, Yellow No. 5, and Blue No. 1.
- Schools to stop selling affected products by August 1, 2025.
- State-wide ban effective January 1, 2028.
- Health concerns like hyperactivity in children drive the legislation.
- Similar laws are emerging in states like California, Florida, and Oklahoma.
Reflects a growing trend toward cleaner food labels.
Source: Food Business News
The Crispy Delight of Frico
Culinary insights:
- Frico are crispy cheese crisps made from heating cheese like Parmesan.
- Enhances dishes like pasta and salads or enjoyed as a snack.
- Originated from Friuli, Italy, traditionally using Montasio cheese.
- Cooking frico requires balancing cheese quantity and cooking time.
- A simple yet unforgettably delicious treat that's easy to make.
Perfect for adding a savory crunch to meals.
Source: Salon
Hummus Recall Due to Plastic Fragments
Key details:
- King Harvest recalls nearly 72,000 tubs of hummus.
- 12 flavors affected, sold in Idaho, Oregon, and Washington.
- Expiration dates from February 2 to March 2.
- No injuries reported; consumers can return products for refunds.
- Flavors include roasted garlic, lemon, and jalapeño.
Opportunity to try making homemade hummus instead.
Source: Salon
Comforting Boozy Fish Stew Recipe
Recipe highlights:
- A hearty Boozy Fish Stew perfect for unpredictable spring weather.
- Incorporates fresh seafood with a rich tomato base and a splash of alcohol.
- Paired with Easy Biscuits infused with chives for a festive touch.
- Total cooking time is about 1 hour, serving 4-6 people.
A comforting meal to bring warmth and cheer.
Source: Salon
Trade War Heats Up with Tariff Threats
Important points:
- President Trump threatens a 200% tariff on European wines and spirits.
- Retaliation for the EU's 50% tariff on U.S. whisky.
- The EU plans counter-tariffs on American goods worth $28.31 billion.
- The conflict affects significant export markets for U.S. spirits.
Highlights the escalating tensions in international trade relations.
Source: Salon
New Food and Beverage Launches Excite Consumers
Product debuts:
- Vita Coco releases Orange & Creme coconut milk beverage.
- Jordan’s Skinny Mixes introduces Skinnyccino™ cold brew coffee.
- Little Sesame unveils two new hummus flavors: Green Goddess and Golden Garlic.
- Sargento launches Cheese Bakes snacks in collaboration with Mondelēz.
Innovations cater to diverse tastes and preferences.
Source: Food Industry Executive
Pretzelmaker Expands at Great Wolf Lodge
Key developments:
- Pretzelmaker opens units in select Great Wolf Lodge locations.
- Offers unique snacks like Pretzel Bites and breakfast sandwiches.
- Aims to increase brand visibility and sales by targeting families.
- Plans to expand to two more resorts this year and explore non-traditional venues.
- Top-performing units have shown significant sales success.
Strategic partnership enhances growth and profitability.
Source: QSRweb
Jollibee Opens Franchising Opportunities in North America
Highlights:
- Jollibee launches its first franchising program in North America.
- Targets multi-unit franchisees with operational expertise.
- Seeks to expand from 76 stores in the U.S. and 28 in Canada to 350 stores.
- Offers various ownership opportunities, including urban storefronts.
Aims to bring its unique hospitality experience to more customers.
Source: QSR Web
Restaurant Owners Share Wholesale Supplier Tips
Insights:
- Owners commonly use suppliers like Sysco, US Foods, and Restaurant Depot.
- Some prefer local vendors for items like gloves and take-out boxes.
- Choice of supplier often depends on the type of restaurant and specific needs.
- Emphasis on understanding supply needs when making sourcing decisions.
Networking with peers can provide valuable sourcing strategies.
Source: /r/restaurantowners
Starting a Frozen Pizza Business: Challenges and Advice
Key considerations:
- Transitioning to frozen pizza production involves stringent certifications.
- Requires HACCP plans and collaboration with health departments.
- Equipment must be NSF-certified; UL listings focus on electrical safety.
- Financial investment can be substantial, sometimes over $100,000.
- Adapting recipes for freezing is critical for product quality.
Seeking guidance from successful vendors is recommended.
Source: /r/restaurantowners
Sourcing Cinema-Style Letter Boards for Menus
Tips:
- Check with local sign companies like Chandler Signs and Jones Signs.
- Consider used boards if new ones are hard to find.
- Searching for "illuminated readerboards" might yield results.
- Posting in related online communities can provide quick assistance.
A unique menu display can enhance the restaurant's ambiance.
Source: /r/restaurantowners
Creating Revenue Projections for a New Restaurant Venture
Advice:
- Establish a break-even point to understand necessary sales.
- Profit margins typically average 15-20% in the industry.
- Keep the menu simple to ensure quick service and manage costs.
- Consider hiring a consultant to navigate operational complexities.
Thorough financial planning is crucial for success.
Source: /r/restaurantowners
Converting Drink Coolers to Gravity Glide Systems
Suggestions:
- Add glides to the shelves to allow drinks to slide forward.
- Ensure shelves have a lip to secure glides in place.
- Adjust shelf angles and enhance surfaces to reduce friction.
- Beverage companies may provide refrigerators with built-in glides.
Proper setup improves functionality and customer convenience.
Source: /r/restaurantowners
Managing Multiple Restaurant Apps: A Necessary Challenge
Experiences:
- Some owners use integrated systems like Toast to manage multiple delivery apps.
- Others avoid third-party services altogether.
- Apps can complicate bookkeeping but are essential due to customer loyalty to platforms.
- Finding a balance between technology and simplicity is key.
Adaptation is vital in the modern restaurant landscape.
Source: /r/restaurantowners
Ice Cream Concept Exploration and Collaboration
Highlights:
- An unlaunched ice cream concept inspired by family.
- Features custom design and a $11,000 Swirl Freeze machine.
- Considering consulting or selling the idea to others.
- Community feedback is positive, showing interest in collaboration.
Potential for growth through shared experiences and partnerships.
Source: /r/restaurateur
Challenges in Hiring Quality Restaurant Managers
Issues:
- Difficulty finding managers who understand their responsibilities.
- Job postings should include salary ranges and clear expectations.
- Promoting from within and fostering a mentorship culture may help.
- Vague postings can deter qualified candidates.
Clear communication and support are essential for building a strong team.
Source: /r/Restaurant_Managers
Taco Bell's $3.14 Mexican Pizza for National Pi Day
Reactions:
- Taco Bell offers the Mexican Pizza for $3.14 on National Pi Day.
- Mixed customer responses; some find it overrated or not worth trying.
- Others might consider purchasing at the promotional price.
Promotions can reignite interest in menu items.
Source: /r/fastfood
Debate Over Healthiness of Beef Tallow Fries
Discussion:
- Fries cooked in beef tallow are debated for health benefits.
- Some argue tallow is better than seed oils for gut health.
- Consensus acknowledges that all fried foods carry health risks.
- Taste preferences often outweigh health considerations.
Flavor remains a primary factor in consumer choices.
Source: /r/fastfood
Rebranding a Fast Food Restaurant: Naming Ideas
Suggestions:
- Current name is Casa Nostra; specializes in grills, burgers, and pizzas.
- Proposed names include "Bare Grills", "Mama’s Casa", "Nosa Castra".
- Importance of considering demographics and food culture in naming.
- Balancing creativity with brand identity is crucial.
A well-chosen name can enhance brand recognition and appeal.
Source: /r/restaurant
Tips on Splitting Bills Among Dining Groups
Best practices:
- Communicate preferences to the server early in the meal.
- Request separate checks at the time of ordering.
- Use apps like Venmo or cash to settle individual amounts.
- Servers appreciate advance notice to manage the billing process smoothly.
Clear communication ensures a hassle-free dining experience.
Source: /r/restaurant
Choosing Between Brioche or Potato Buns for Burgers
Considerations:
- Potato buns cater to customers with egg and dairy allergies.
- Some find brioche buns overrated or unsuitable for burgers.
- Focus on a quality standard bun that maintains freshness.
- Preservation methods might be more practical than premium buns.
The right bun enhances the overall burger experience.
Source: /r/restaurant
Essential Pillars for Opening a Restaurant
Key elements:
- Menu: Align with your brand; a simplified menu improves consistency.
- Branding: Define your identity and stick to it without overreacting to trends.
- Service & Operations: Establish strong systems and involve staff in problem-solving.
- Suppliers: Build relationships and have backup options for ingredients.
- Location: Research thoroughly; the right location impacts success.
Surround yourself with a good team and maintain your vision.
Source: /r/restaurant
Dealing with Dine-In Delays
Issue:
- Customers order for dine-in but leave for extended periods, causing cold food and table occupancy.
- Recommendations include not seating them until they return.
- Communicate policies politely to manage expectations.
Setting boundaries helps maintain service quality for all guests.
Source: /r/restaurant
Persistent Smell Under Beer Taps: Solutions
Problem:
- Ongoing odor under beer taps due to possible leaks and buildup.
- Cleaning efforts haven't fully resolved the issue.
Advice:
- Regularly clean taps and drains thoroughly.
- Use solutions like baking soda and vinegar.
- Ensure any leaks or moisture issues are repaired.
Proper maintenance prevents odors and potential health hazards.
Source: /r/restaurant
Exploring Delivery-Only Service Options
Options:
- Besides DoorDash Drive, services like Uber Eats, Grubhub, and Postmates API offer delivery-only models.
- These allow restaurants to manage their own orders while outsourcing delivery.
- Important to clarify service requirements when choosing a provider.
Finding the right partner can enhance delivery operations.
Source: /r/restaurant
Dynamic Restaurant Branding: A Continuous Process
Insights:
- Branding should evolve with guest expectations and industry trends.
- Elijah's restaurant successfully rebranded, boosting revenue.
- Regular audits help align the brand with customer desires.
- Consistent storytelling across all touchpoints enhances the experience.
Flexibility while retaining core identity is key to lasting success.
Source: Nation's Restaurant News
Starbucks Unveils New Coffeehouse Designs
Updates:
- Introduces store designs with increased seating and a cozy atmosphere.
- Features include outdoor seating, booths, and dedicated mobile order areas.
- Aims to revitalize the "third place" concept for community engagement.
- Despite global challenges, focuses on international growth, especially in China.
Enhancing in-store experiences to blend convenience with connection.
Source: Nation's Restaurant News
Consumers Cut Back on Spending Amid Economic Pressures
Data:
- 33.4% of households reducing discretionary spending.
- Consumer sentiment index drops to 57.9 in March.
- Quick-service traffic declined by 2.8% year-over-year in February.
- The "trade-off consumer" affects dining habits across demographics.
Restaurants face challenges as consumers become more cautious.
Source: Nation's Restaurant News
Taco Bell Plans Exciting Menu Expansions
Coming soon:
- Twice as many menu launches in 2024.
- Focus on new beverages, crispy chicken, and Nacho Fries.
- Potential items: Weak Knees Fire Sauce, Purple Chile Sauce, Poutine Fries, and Mexican Pizza Empanadas.
- Introduction of Cantina offerings with shredded beef and carne asada.
Fans can anticipate a delicious transformation of the menu.
Source: Nation's Restaurant News
Refugee's Success Story in Franchising
Highlights:
- Orhan Veli, a former refugee, owns 12 Saladworks restaurants in Philadelphia.
- His journey showcases the opportunities in restaurant franchising.
- Aims to inspire other refugees and immigrants to explore franchising.
- Emphasizes the diverse backgrounds enriching the restaurant industry.
An inspirational example of achieving success through dedication.
Source: Nation's Restaurant News
Co-Branded Restaurants and Market Adaptation
Key developments:
- Dine Brands expands with more co-branded Applebee’s-IHOP locations.
- Adapts to changing consumer habits with the shift back to in-office work.
- Sweetgreen expects increased downtown dining traffic.
- Walk-On’s Sports Bistro adds new menu items and cocktails.
- Smoothie King’s CEO launches JOA Grill and overhauls Nuri Steakhouse.
Restaurants innovate to meet evolving market demands.
Source: Nation's Restaurant News
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