March 17th QSR Roundup: Enhancing Guest Feedback, Maximizing Food Purchasing Partnerships, and PepsiCo Healthier Beverage

QSR news for Mar 17th, 2025. We reviewed 21 QSR publications, 6 subreddits, and over 55 articles to bring you the latest. Estimated reading time saved (at 200wpm): 195 minutes. It'll take you only 13 minutes to catch up.

🍗 Fast-Food Chains Bet Big on Chicken and Beverages

Fast-food giants like McDonald's, Wendy's, and Taco Bell are strategically emphasizing chicken and beverages to capture more market share amidst fierce competition.

• Taco Bell's Ambitious Goals: Aiming for $250,000 in average revenue by 2030, with a strong focus on chicken items and drink offerings.
• Surging Chicken Demand: In 2022, U.S. chicken sandwich servings hit 2.7 billion. Including nuggets and tenders, the total climbs to 8 billion, marking a 16% increase since 2017.
• McDonald's Strategy: Established a Restaurant Experience Team to enhance chicken and beverage categories.
• Wendy's Innovations: Planning new beverage offerings to boost breakfast appeal.

Expect to see a significant increase in chicken and beverage options on fast-food menus this year as these giants innovate to stay ahead.

Sources: Restaurant Business

🐶 Dog Park Bars: The New Social Hotspots

Dog park bars are taking the hospitality industry by storm, blending pet-friendly spaces with human entertainment.

Emerging Brands and Concepts

• Pups Pub and MUTTS Canine Cantina: Leading the way in this niche market.
• Pet Industry Boom: Expected growth from $320 billion in 2023 to nearly $500 billion by 2030; the U.S. market nearing $200 billion.

What Sets Them Apart

• Dual Appeal: Creating spaces that cater equally to dogs and their owners.
• Membership Perks: Offering VIP dog memberships and events like “Yappy Hour” to build community.
• Creative Menus: Featuring cleverly named drinks and rotating food options, often involving guests in the creation process.
• Expansion Plans: Pups Pub has sold five franchises, eyeing locations from Texas to Florida.

Challenges and Opportunities

• Safety Concerns: Balancing food service with pet safety requires careful management.
• Social Experience: The unique combination of a bar and dog park creates a fun, social atmosphere that's driving popularity.

Sources: FSR Magazine

🤖 Enhancing Guest Feedback with Paytronix and Ovation

Paytronix and Ovation have partnered to improve customer feedback analysis for restaurants.

Key Features

• Quick Surveys: Guests provide feedback via brief text surveys post-visit.
• Real-Time Insights: Allows restaurants to promptly address issues and engage with customers.
• AI-Driven Analysis: Categorizes feedback to pinpoint strengths and areas for improvement.

Benefits

• Increased Engagement: Happy guests can further interact with the brand.
• Customer Recovery: Opportunity to win back dissatisfied customers with timely responses.

This collaboration leverages technology to deepen guest relationships and enhance the overall dining experience.

Sources: Fast Casual

🍰 Craveworthy Brands Acquires Kinnamōns

Craveworthy Brands has added Kinnamōns, a gourmet cinnamon roll concept founded by NFL star Ndamukong Suh, to its portfolio.

About Kinnamōns

• Artisanal Cinnamon Rolls: Featuring flavors like Caramel Apple Pie and Maple Bacon.
• Locally Sourced Ingredients: Emphasizing quality and community.

Expansion Plans

• National Scaling: Aiming to franchise and grow beyond its Portland roots.
• Community Engagement: Suh focuses on building connections as the brand expands.

Strategic Fit

• Market Demand: Aligns with the growing interest in handcrafted baked goods.
• Brand Mission: Complements Craveworthy's goal to fill niche gaps in the quick-service industry.

This acquisition strengthens Craveworthy's position in offering unique, indulgent experiences to customers nationwide.

Sources: Fast Casual

🛒 Maximizing Food Purchasing Partnerships

Food service operators are seeking efficient purchasing partnerships to optimize procurement strategies.

Considerations for Choosing Partners

• Category Expertise: Specialized buying groups offer in-depth knowledge for specific products.
• Menu Innovation: Access to unique ingredients supports creative and competitive menus.
• Produce Kits: Streamlining operations with pre-assembled kits ensures consistency.

Selecting the Right Partner

• Size Matters: Balance is key; too large may mean high costs, too small may lack resources.
• Referrals: Trust industry recommendations to find reliable groups.
• Collaboration: Strong relationships with partners lead to better support and customized solutions.

Benefits

• Cost Savings: Efficient partnerships can significantly impact profitability.
• Operational Efficiency: Improves overall food service operations through tailored services.

Aligning with the right purchasing partner is crucial for success in the competitive food industry.

Sources: Modern Restaurant Management

🥤 PepsiCo Buys Poppi to Expand Healthier Beverage Options

PepsiCo is acquiring Poppi, a prebiotic soda brand, for $1.95 billion to strengthen its health-focused beverage portfolio.

Deal Details

• Purchase Price: $1.65 billion plus $300 million in anticipated cash tax benefits.
• Brand Profile: Poppi offers low-calorie, functional beverages with prebiotics and apple cider vinegar.
• Growth Stats: Sales have increased by 152% year-over-year, reaching $391.3 million.

Strategic Move

• Consumer Trends: Aligns with the shift towards healthier, functional drinks.
• Product Variety: Poppi has 14 flavors and a strong celebrity following.

Analyst Insights

• Market Positioning: Enhances PepsiCo's distribution and meets rising demand for healthier sodas.
• Health Focus: Reflects the company's strategy to reduce sugar content and cater to wellness trends.

This acquisition signifies PepsiCo's commitment to evolving with consumer preferences and expanding its healthier offerings.

Sources: Food Business News

🥗 Wild Rice Grain Salad: A Nutritious Delight

Grain salads take center stage with the incorporation of wild rice, offering a hearty and flavorful dish.

Wild Rice Benefits

• Unique Texture: Chewy and nutty, enhancing the overall salad experience.
• Cultural Significance: A staple for Indigenous communities near the Great Lakes.

Cooking Tips

• Rice Cooker Use: Simplifies the cooking process, ensuring perfect grains.
• No Soaking Needed: Avoids altering the desired texture.

Complementary Ingredients

• Dried Cherries and Goat Cheese: Add sweetness and creaminess.
• Shallots: Provide a subtle kick.

Meal Planning

• Make-Ahead Friendly: Ideal for preparing in advance.
• Flexible and Vegetarian: Easily adaptable to personal preferences.

This wild rice grain salad is a wholesome option that combines convenience with nourishing ingredients.

Sources: Salon

🍅 Unlocking Flavor with Olive Bar Ingredients

Transform your cooking by utilizing the often-overlooked olive bar at your local market.

Culinary Gems

• Marinated Delights: Beyond olives, find sun-dried tomatoes, marinated feta, and artichoke hearts.
• Global Flavors: A diverse selection that adds depth to dishes.

Recipe Inspiration

• Tomato Soup: Combines roasted cherry tomatoes with sun-dried tomatoes for a rich flavor, perfect even in winter.
• Everyday Elevation: Enhance baked potatoes with marinated feta or boost stews with artichoke hearts.

Why It Matters

• Convenience: Ready-to-eat ingredients save time.
• Flavor Enhancement: Small additions can significantly improve meal taste and enjoyment.

Exploring the olive bar can unlock new dimensions in your everyday cooking, making meals more exciting.

Sources: Salon

📱 TikTok's Packing Peanut Sandwich Trend

A bizarre trend on TikTok involves making sandwiches using packing peanuts as bread.

Key Points

• Creator: TyBott gained attention by crafting a 'packing peanut butter and jelly sandwich.'
• Viral Reaction: The unusual recipe has stirred both fascination and concern.
• Health Warnings: Medical experts caution against eating packing peanuts, even if made from biodegradable starch, due to potential contaminants.

Historical Context

• Dangerous Challenges: Follows past risky trends like the Tide Pods Challenge and NyQuil Chicken.
• Psychological Insight: Highlights the allure of consuming forbidden items for social media fame.

This trend raises awareness about the influence of social media on risky behaviors and the importance of promoting safe content.

Sources: Salon

👩‍🔧 Women Leading Transformation in Food Manufacturing

Frontline women are making significant impacts in food manufacturing through innovation and leadership.

Notable Achievements

• Mireya Jimenez (Pioneer Frozen Foods):
  • Increased equipment effectiveness by 7% in 90 days.
  • Reduced safety incidents, fostering a safer work environment.
• Shannon Bone (Companion Baking):
  • Established a Safety Committee.
  • Reduced landfill waste by 92%.
  • Cut safety costs by 61% over three years.
• Mallory Chavez (Post-Consumer Brands):
  • Implemented new technology during an acquisition.
  • Improved productivity by 8%.
  • Enhanced communication across shifts.

Common Themes

• Embracing Technology
• Mentoring Teams
• Practical Problem-Solving
• Cross-Department Collaboration

These women exemplify how transformation comes through collaboration and innovation, setting benchmarks for industry improvements.

Sources: Food Industry Executive

🤝 Guest Engagement Enhanced by Paytronix and Ovation Partnership

The collaboration between Paytronix and Ovation aims to improve guest engagement through better feedback mechanisms.

System Features

• Text Surveys: Immediate, short surveys post-visit.
• Personalized Interactions: Happy guests receive further engagement opportunities.
• Actionable Data: AI categorizes feedback for easy analysis.

Benefits to Restaurants

• Real-Time Responses: Address issues promptly to improve satisfaction.
• Loyalty Rewards: Tailor experiences to reward and retain customers.

This partnership focuses on strengthening guest relationships and enhancing the overall dining experience through technology.

Sources: QSR Web

👩‍💼 A&W Restaurants Appoint Amanda Potts as VP of Marketing and Innovation

Amanda Potts joins A&W Restaurants as the new VP of Marketing and Innovation.

Experience and Vision

• 20+ Years: Extensive experience in driving franchise growth and brand awareness.
• Strategic Focus: Plans to honor A&W's history while engaging new audiences.
• Brand Growth: Aims to support national expansion and development.

Company Outlook

• Global Presence: Over 850 locations across 35 states and Asia.
• Leadership Praise: CEO Betsy Schmandt expresses confidence in Potts' ability to propel the brand forward.

Potts' appointment signals a commitment to innovation and adapting to market trends.

Sources: QSR Web

🥨 Wetzel's Pretzels Makes Its Delaware Debut

Wetzel's Pretzels opens its first location in Delaware, partnering with Cold Stone Creamery in Dover.

Franchise Details

• Owner: Mohamed Elghandour, with over 15 years in the restaurant industry.
• Experience: Previously opened a Cold Stone Creamery and a Cinnabon.

Market Impact

• Snacking Options: Aimed at enhancing choices for local residents and University of Delaware students.
• Brand Expansion: Wetzel's Pretzels continues to grow on the East Coast, now with over 400 locations.

The new location offers hand-rolled pretzels, adding to the vibrant food scene in Dover.

Sources: QSR Web

🌭 Nathan's Famous Opens in Rock Hill with New Design

Nathan's Famous Inc. launches a franchised restaurant in Rock Hill, South Carolina, featuring a new free-standing design.

Restaurant Features

• Full Menu: Includes signature hot dogs, crinkle-cut fries, and hand-dipped chicken sandwiches.
• Local Touches: Franchisee Steve Simpson and daughter Lydia Morales incorporate unique elements for the community.

Brand Highlights

• 'Flavor of New York': Bringing iconic tastes to new locations.
• Design Innovation: The new format aims to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency.

Nathan's continues to expand its footprint, sharing its famous flavors with more customers.

Sources: QSRweb

😓 Restaurant Owner's Dilemma in Firing Long-Term Employee

A restaurant owner struggles with the decision to fire a long-term employee who isn't meeting performance standards.

Situation Overview

• Emotional Connection: The employee has been with the owner since youth, creating a deep bond.
• Performance Issues: Despite support and training, the employee isn't improving, affecting operations.

Community Advice

• Address Burnout: Consider if the employee is experiencing burnout or needs a role change.
• Clear Communication: Implement a performance improvement plan with measurable goals.
• Alternative Roles: Explore redefining the employee's position to better suit their abilities.
• Business Needs First: Emphasize that decisions should prioritize the business over personal feelings.

Balancing empathy with practical business considerations is crucial in such challenging situations.

Sources: /r/restaurantowners

🏗️ Tips for Designing a Small Kitchen in a Sandwich Shop

Restaurant owners share valuable insights on optimizing small kitchen spaces.

Key Strategies

• Organization is Crucial: Efficient use of space enhances workflow.
• Vertical Storage: Utilize wall-mounted shelving and hooks.
• Equipment Choices: Consider high-speed ovens like Merrychef to save space and manage heat.
• Custom Solutions: Tailor shelving and layouts to specific needs.
• Adaptability: Be prepared to adjust the setup as the operation evolves.

Workflow Focus

• Accessibility: Ensure essential tools and ingredients are within easy reach.
• Flow Management: Design the layout to facilitate smooth movement during peak times.

Proper planning and flexibility can maximize efficiency in a small kitchen environment.

Sources: /r/restaurantowners

💰 Navigating Payment Options for Restaurant Owners in Canada

A restaurant owner in Ontario seeks advice on the best payment methods for a couple-run business.

Options Considered

• Hourly Wage or Salary: Traditional methods providing stability.
• Dividends: Offers flexibility and potential tax benefits but may affect CPP contributions.
• Combination Approach: Balancing salary for RRSP contributions and dividends for tax efficiency.

Key Considerations

• Retirement Planning: Salary contributes to Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and RRSP eligibility.
• Tax Implications: Dividends might reduce tax burdens but could impact future benefits.
• Financial Goals: Align payment methods with personal and business financial objectives.

Community Consensus

• Professional Advice: Consult with an accountant to tailor the approach.
• Long-Term Impacts: Consider how choices affect retirement and financial stability.

Selecting the right payment structure is crucial for optimizing tax efficiency and securing financial well-being.

Sources: /r/restaurantowners

⚠️ Advice Against Converting Electric Steam Kettle to Gas

A restaurant owner contemplates converting an electric Groen 40-quart kettle to gas due to electrical limitations.

Community Warnings

• Safety Risks: Strongly advised against conversion due to potential hazards.
• Regulatory Concerns: Modifications could violate safety codes and regulations.
• Impracticality: Conversion is not feasible without significant, costly changes.

Recommended Solutions

• Hire an Electrician: Upgrade electrical service to accommodate the equipment.
• Avoid Shortcuts: Emphasize investing in proper infrastructure rather than risky modifications.

The consensus is clear: prioritize safety and compliance by addressing electrical needs professionally.

Sources: /r/restaurantowners

📸 Boosting Instagram Engagement for Restaurants

Restaurant owners discuss strategies to enhance customer engagement through Instagram.

Challenges Identified

• Low Engagement: Followers often consist of other businesses rather than potential customers.
• Algorithm Limitations: Organic reach is restricted without paid promotions.

Effective Strategies

• Unique Content: Create edgy, offbeat videos or posts to stand out.
• Event Promotion: Use geotargeted ads and seasonal events to attract locals.
• Interactive Posts: Utilize polls, behind-the-scenes stories, and staff features.
• Consistency: Plan content ahead and maintain a regular posting schedule.

Understanding Audience

• Platform Demographics: Recognize differences between Instagram (younger audience) and Facebook (older audience).
• Cross-Platform Marketing: Combine social media efforts with email marketing for better ROI.

By tailoring content and leveraging interactive features, restaurants can improve engagement and drive foot traffic.

Sources: /r/restaurantowners

🍕 Family Reviews California Pizza Kitchen's Original Pizzas

A family tries all four original pizzas at California Pizza Kitchen (CPK), expressing disappointment with the California veggie pizza.

Community Reactions

• Positive Experiences: Many commenters share fondness for CPK's pizzas.
• Date Spot Nostalgia: Some recall using CPK for casual dates.
• Veggie Pizza Opinions: Common sentiment that veggie pizzas can be underwhelming.

Fast Food Debate

• Classification: Some debate whether CPK qualifies as fast food.

The discussion highlights varied customer experiences and perceptions of the brand.

Sources: /r/fastfood

🥩 Preferences for Steak Dinner Accompaniments

A Reddit thread explores what sides and additions people prefer with their steak dinners.

Common Choices

• A La Carte Sides: Preference for selecting specific sides like potatoes or vegetables.
• Wine Pairings: Red wine is a popular accompaniment.
• Mushrooms and Sauces: Adding flavor with mushrooms or au jus.

Menu Structure

• Inclusion Debate: Mixed opinions on whether salads or soups should be included or extra.
• Value Perception: Some believe inclusions enhance customer satisfaction.

Industry Insights

• Profit Margins: Comments on the slim margins in the steakhouse business.

The conversation reflects diverse tastes and considerations for restaurant offerings.

Sources: /r/restaurant

🤖 Krow AI Interviews: Legitimacy Discussed

A job seeker questions the legitimacy of scheduling an interview through Krow AI after applying to Chili's.

Community Feedback

• Legitimate Process: Likely genuine if the interview is at the restaurant during normal hours.
• AI in Hiring: Companies use AI to streamline recruitment, matching applicants based on keywords.
• Safety Suggestions: Ensure interviews are in public places and consider bringing someone along.

Caution Advised

• Scam Awareness: Be vigilant for red flags and verify details.

The discussion indicates growing acceptance of AI in hiring while emphasizing personal safety.

Sources: /r/restaurant

💧 Charging for Water in Restaurants Sparks Debate

Customers notice some restaurants are starting to charge for tap water.

Key Points

• Regional Differences: Practices vary by location, with some areas never experiencing charges.
• Business Considerations: Possible reasons include water shortages or attempts to limit waste.
• Customer Expectations: Many believe water should be complimentary as part of service.

Industry Perspectives

• Profit Margins: High pricing of other drinks might influence policies on water.
• Legal Implications: Rare and context-specific regulations may affect water service.

The topic highlights tensions between operational costs and customer service standards.

Sources: /r/restaurant

🍹 Bar Owners Share Insights in Q&A Session

Bar owners engage in a Q&A, sharing advice and experiences.

Topics Discussed

• Scheduling Apps: Seeking recommendations for tools that handle schedules, attendance, and communication.
• App Development Interest: A user expresses intent to create an app tailored to these needs.
• Community Support: Commenters provide suggestions and share their own practices.

Purpose

• Market Research: Interactive format aids in gathering insights for potential app development.
• Industry Collaboration: Encourages sharing of solutions to common challenges.

This exchange fosters a collaborative environment for problem-solving among bar owners.

Sources: /r/BarOwners

🍸 Advice on Adding a Bar to a Restaurant

A restaurant owner plans to add a bar and seeks guidance.

Expert Recommendations

• Consult Professionals: Engage a bar consultant or experienced bartenders for design and operations input.
• Equipment Essentials:
  • Slushy Machines: Popular in Florida for frozen drinks.
  • Exacto Pour System: Prevents over-pouring and controls costs.
  • Sinks and Ice Machines: Critical for functionality.

Operational Tips

• Menu Focus: Decide between crafting cocktails or offering a full bar.
• Staff Training: Standardized recipes and proper training ensure consistency.
• Design Importance: Efficient layout enhances service speed and customer experience.

Investing in expertise and thoughtful planning can lead to a successful and profitable bar addition.

Sources: /r/BarOwners

🔄 Leadership Change at Smalls Sliders

Maria Rivera departs from her role as CEO of Smalls Sliders.

Company Background

• Rapid Growth: Expanded from 40 to 300 locations in various stages under her leadership.
• Unique Model: Operates from small, cost-effective modular containers.

Interim Leadership

• Brandon Landry: Founder stepping in as interim CEO while searching for a new leader.

Rivera's tenure saw significant expansion, and the company aims to continue this momentum.

Sources: Nation's Restaurant News

💼 Starbucks Ordered to Pay $50 Million in Lawsuit

A court orders Starbucks to pay $50 million to a delivery driver injured by spilled tea.

Case Details

• Plaintiff: Michael Garcia suffered permanent disfigurement.
• Cause: Negligence due to poorly secured drink lids.
• Company Response: Starbucks plans to appeal, emphasizing commitment to safety.

Comparison

• Similar to McDonald's Coffee Case: Reflects ongoing concerns about hot beverage safety.

The case underscores the importance of proper safety protocols in serving hot drinks.

Sources: Nation's Restaurant News

🏀 Shake Shack Gives Away Avocado Bacon Burgers

Shake Shack offers a free Avocado Bacon Burger with a $10 purchase as part of a March Madness promotion.

Promotion Details

• Duration: Until April 7.
• How to Redeem: Use the promo code SHOWDOWN on the app or website.
• Customer Engagement: Follows a customer vote and interactive events.

Background

• Previous Promotions: Similar offers like the Chicken Sandwich for $9.99.
• Competitive Landscape: Shake Shack operates 570 locations compared to Chick-fil-A's nearly 3,000.

This promotion aims to delight customers and increase engagement during the popular sports season.

Sources: Nation's Restaurant News

🌱 Sustainable Restaurants Retain More Employees

Restaurants with strong environmental practices see higher employee retention.

Key Statistics

• Turnover Costs: Replacing a front-line employee costs about $5,864.
• Employee Preferences:
  • 51% avoid companies without strong environmental commitments.
  • 83% of millennials prefer environmentally responsible employers.

Benefits of Sustainability

• Increased Loyalty: Workers are more satisfied and loyal in sustainable workplaces.
• Authenticity Matters: Genuine efforts are crucial; employees can discern superficial claims.

Investing in sustainability can improve employee retention and reduce costs associated with high turnover.

Sources: Nation's Restaurant News

🥙 CAVA Expands in the Midwest with Indiana Opening

CAVA opens its first Indiana location in Fishers, continuing its Midwest growth.

Restaurant Features

• Size: 3,000 square feet with 40 seats.
• Services: Offers digital order pick-up and delivery.

Expansion Plans

• Continued Growth: Plans to open 58 new restaurants by end of 2024.
• Long-Term Goal: Aiming for 1,000 locations by 2032.

Performance

• Strong Openings: Recent stores show promising average sales and growth.

CAVA's strategic expansion aligns with increasing demand for Mediterranean cuisine.

Sources: Nation's Restaurant News

🍽️ Restaurant Industry Five Years After Pandemic

Five years on, the restaurant industry has evolved significantly since the pandemic.

Consumer Behavior

• Increased Dining Out: Consumers now spend 53% of their food dollar at restaurants.
• Solo Dining: Up from 26% in 2019 to 32%.

Economic Concerns

• Pessimism Rises: Over a third of households cut discretionary dining spending.

Industry Response

• Promotions Return: Olive Garden brings back its 'buy one, get one' deal after five years.

The industry continues to adapt to changing consumer habits and economic conditions.

Sources: Nation's Restaurant News

🎙️ Restaurant Innovations and Competitor Strategies

Recent developments highlight strategic moves by major restaurant chains.

McDonald's Initiatives

• Restaurant Experience Team: Focused on innovation in beef, chicken, and beverages to stay competitive.

Starbucks Revamp

• Third Place Enhancement: Introducing prototypes with more communal spaces and improved amenities.

Menu Updates

• Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux and Noodles & Company: Launch significant new menus, reflecting industry dynamism.

These strategies showcase efforts to attract customers through innovation and improved experiences.

Sources: Nation's Restaurant News

🏀 Chipotle's "Fight On" Menu with USC Women's Basketball

Chipotle collaborates with the USC women's basketball team to launch the 'Fight On' digital menu.

Menu Highlights

• Player Favorites: Features go-to orders from each team member, including star JuJu Watkins.

Promotion Details

• March Madness Tie-In: Coincides with the team's tournament participation starting March 22.
• NIL Partnership: Builds on Chipotle's support through name, image, and likeness agreements.

This initiative connects fans with athletes, promoting both the team and Chipotle's offerings.

Sources: Nation's Restaurant News

🍔 Wendy’s Offers Deals for March Madness

Wendy’s rolls out promotions as the official hamburger sponsor of March Madness.

Special Offers

• $1 Jr. Bacon Cheeseburger or Double Stack with any app purchase.
• Delivery Deals:
  • Free Son of Baconator on DoorDash with orders over $20.
  • BOGO Double Stack Biggie Bag on Uber Eats.
  • Free Baconator on Grubhub.

Company Background

• Founded: In 1969 by Dave Thomas.
• Global Presence: Over 7,000 locations worldwide.

Wendy's aims to attract basketball fans with tasty deals and emphasizes its commitment to quality.

Sources: Nation's Restaurant News

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