November 18th QSR Roundup: Empowered Women Lead Whataburger's Success and Holiday Deals from Wendy's Ignite Excitement

Interviewy Team

Interviewy Team

— 7 min read
November 18th QSR Roundup: Empowered Women Lead Whataburger's Success and Holiday Deals from Wendy's Ignite Excitement
QSR news for Nov 18th, 2024. We reviewed 21 QSR publications, 6 subreddits, and over 60 articles to bring you the latest. Estimated reading time saved (at 200wpm): 224 minutes. It'll take you only 9 minutes to catch up.

Empowered Women Leading Whataburger's Success

Whataburger's leadership shines with a powerful all-women executive team, carrying forward the legacy of its co-founder, Lady Grace Dobson.

  • Lady Grace Dobson's Impact: After the sudden death of her husband, she transformed Whataburger into a leading burger chain, emphasizing community and empathy.
  • The 'She-suite' Executives: Peggy Rubenzer, Elena Kraus, Debbie Stroud, and Janelle Sykes bring diverse experiences, leading with shared values and strength.
  • Promoting Flexible Work Culture: Advocating for work-life balance, they shifted from traditional long hours to more adaptable schedules.
  • Importance of Male Allies: Male mentorship is crucial in advancing women in leadership and ensuring diverse dialogue.
  • Community Focus: Celebrating its 74th anniversary, Whataburger thrives on a people-first culture, supporting women across its workforce.

Sources: QSR Magazine

Wendy's Spices Up the Holiday Season

Wendy's is igniting excitement with a limited-time deal on its iconic Spicy Chicken Sandwich for just $3.99 through the Wendy's app until December 29th.

  • Fiery Flavor: A juicy chicken breast marinated in fiery peppers and spices, topped with crisp lettuce, tomato, and mayo.
  • Exclusive Offer: Available only through the mobile app, making it a convenient option for holiday gatherings.

Sources: QSR Magazine

Honeygrow Expands into New Territories

Philadelphia-based fast-casual eatery honeygrow is expanding into four new cities, surpassing 50 locations and entering its eighth state.

  • New Locations:
    • Shrewsbury, MA: Joining brands like Whole Foods and Starbucks at 193 Boston Turnpike.
    • Waldorf, MD: Part of a 150-acre mixed-use project at Waldorf Station.
    • Freehold, NJ: Located in Freehold Marketplace alongside retailers like Walmart.
    • Mechanicsburg, PA: Within Beltway Towne Centre, connecting with eateries like BJ’s.
  • Founder's Vision: Justin Rosenberg celebrates the growth fueled by positive community feedback and plans continued expansion into 2025.
  • Menu Highlights: Offers customizable stir-fries and salads with fresh, high-quality ingredients.

Sources: QSR Magazine, QSR Web

Craveworthy Brands Acquires Fresh Brothers Pizza

Craveworthy Brands expands its portfolio by acquiring Fresh Brothers Pizza, known for its quality ingredients and diverse menu across over 20 locations in Southern California.

  • Commitment to Quality: Fresh Brothers specializes in Chicago-style tavern pizza, offering vegan and gluten-free options.
  • Growth Potential: Aiming to broaden its national footprint through franchising, Craveworthy's CEO Gregg Majewski highlights the acquisition as key to West Coast expansion.
  • Investor Confidence: Investment partners express optimism about Fresh Brothers' growth with Craveworthy's resources.

Sources: Pizza Marketplace, Nation's Restaurant News

Overtime Rule Struck Down by Texas Judge

A federal judge in Texas overturned the Biden-era overtime rule that would have raised the salary threshold for overtime eligibility to $58,656 by 2025.

  • Current Threshold Maintained: The salary threshold remains at $35,568, reflecting pre-pandemic levels.
  • Industry Response: The ruling is hailed as a relief for restaurant operators and small businesses facing rising labor costs.
  • Legal Basis: The judge ruled that the Department of Labor improperly prioritized wages over job duties.

Sources: FSR Magazine, Restaurant Dive, Nation's Restaurant News

Restaurant Sales Struggle Amidst Value Wars

Several restaurant chains report declines in same-store sales due to intense competition in value offerings.

  • Burger King's Challenge: Struggled to maintain momentum after last year's success; new promotions failed to stand out amidst better deals from competitors.
  • Popeyes' Response: Introduced value deals like the $5 three-piece chicken to boost customer traffic.
  • Papa John's Strategy: Plans to revamp its $6 Papa Pairings to attract value-seeking customers.
  • Portillo’s Approach: CEO Michael Osanloo emphasizes brand integrity over discounting, focusing on long-term success rather than short-term promotions.

Sources: Restaurant Dive

McDonald's Invests in Recovery After E. coli Outbreak

McDonald’s is investing over $100 million to support franchisees affected by an E. coli outbreak linked to slivered onions in their Quarter Pounders.

  • Marketing Boost: Allocating $35 million for marketing to attract customers back.
  • Product Update: Identified an alternative onion supplier and resumed serving Quarter Pounders in 3,000 restaurants.
  • Sales Impact: Experienced declines since the outbreak began on October 22.

Sources: Restaurant Dive

Shifting Focus Back to Hospitality

Brands like CAVA and Starbucks are reinstating human connection in dining experiences as consumers crave more interpersonal interactions.

  • CAVA's Initiative: CEO Brett Schulman emphasizes the importance of human connections to counteract a transactional atmosphere.
  • Subway's Fresh Forward 2.0: Enhances ambiance and convenience, significantly increasing customer willingness to dine in.
  • Starbucks' Re-evaluation: Aims to create a community coffeehouse feel with ceramic mugs and inviting seating.

Sources: Nation's Restaurant News

Elevating Dining with Glass Art

Restaurants are enhancing their atmosphere with handblown glass art, leaving lasting impressions on guests.

  • Chandeliers: Serve as stunning focal points, perfect for high-end establishments.
  • Wall Sconces: Provide subtle lighting and highlight architectural features.
  • Custom Installations: Collaborating with local artists for bespoke glass artworks can distinctly personalize spaces.

Sources: FSR Magazine

Experts discuss strategies for restaurants to navigate legal challenges, emphasizing the critical role of legal counsel.

  • Always Have a Lawyer: Essential for handling leases and preventing costly mistakes.
  • Supply Chain Visibility: Critical for food safety and managing liability during outbreaks.
  • Crisis Management: Honest communication can protect reputation amid incidents.
  • Employee Relations: Utilizing third-party HR tools helps manage issues impartially.

Sources: Fast Casual

New Identity for IFMA: The Food Away from Home Association

The International Foodservice Manufacturers Association (IFMA) rebrands to reflect its evolution in the post-pandemic foodservice industry.

  • Broadened Membership: Expanding to include operators, supply chain professionals, and service providers.
  • Legacy and Growth: Maintaining IFMA in the name while addressing contemporary challenges.
  • Industry Connection: New identity aims to foster collaboration to tackle common issues like food waste.

Sources: QSR Web, QSR Magazine

Restaurant Owners Discuss Operational Challenges

Restaurant owners and managers share experiences and seek advice on a variety of operational challenges.

Menu Feedback

Owners receive critical feedback on menu design and presentation, emphasizing the importance of professional branding.

  • Logo and Font Issues: Criticized for unsatisfactory design, prompting suggestions to hire a professional.
  • Menu Structure: Need for clarity and coherent structure to enhance customer experience.

Dealing with Difficult Employees

Managers seek advice on addressing unprofessional behavior to maintain team morale and productivity.

  • Setting Boundaries: Importance of clear communication and professionalism.
  • Potential Termination: Recognizing when an employee may not fit the role.

Staffing Issues

Challenges in hiring and retaining quality staff due to budget constraints highlight the need for competitive wages.

  • Competitive Pay: Emphasized as crucial for attracting and retaining good staff.
  • Owner Involvement: Necessity to invest time and effort, especially during the initial phase.

Sources: /r/restaurantowners, /r/Restaurant_Managers

Traveling with Thanksgiving Food

With over 79 million Americans traveling this Thanksgiving, many are bringing food along.

  • TSA Rules: Liquids over 3.4 ounces must be in checked bags, but solid foods like baked goods are allowed in carry-ons.
  • Tips: Remove food from bags during security checks and arrive early to avoid delays.
  • Cookware: Generally okay, but heavy items over 7 inches may be restricted.

Sources: Eater

Exploring Fish Roe Varieties Beyond Caviar

The market offers diverse options for fish roe, catering to restaurants and home cooks.

  • Popular Varieties: Salmon roe is the most consumed, followed by trout, capelin, and flying fish roe.
  • Affordable Alternatives: Options like trout and cod roe are gaining traction.
  • Culinary Uses: Enhances dishes, especially appetizers, and is used creatively in restaurants for both taste and marketing appeal.

Sources: BlueCart

Gum Arabic's Rise in the U.S. Market

AGRIGUM INTERNATIONAL partners with AMPAK COMPANY to boost Acacia product distribution in the U.S.

  • Sustainable Sourcing: Gum Arabic is harvested by hand in Africa, emphasizing eco-friendliness with a low-carbon supply chain.
  • Versatile Applications: Used across bakery, dairy, beverages, and confectionery industries due to its unique properties like emulsification and stabilization.
  • Health Benefits: Recognized for improving gut health and digestive wellness, ideal for dietary products.

Sources: Food Business News

Right to Repair Revolution in Restaurant Equipment

Recent changes from the U.S. Copyright Office allow small business owners to repair commercial food equipment without manufacturer restrictions.

  • Impact on McDonald's: Addresses the notorious issue of malfunctioning ice cream machines.
  • Consumer Benefits: Promotes lower costs and increased competition in repair services.
  • Victory for Right to Repair: Significant win for the movement advocating consumers' ability to fix their own devices.

Sources: Salon

Red Lobster Revamps Menu After Bankruptcy

Red Lobster eliminates its Ultimate Endless Shrimp deal and revamps its menu with seven new items and two returning favorites.

  • New Leadership: CEO Damola Adamolekun leads the transformation.
  • Menu Changes: Reintroduces beloved hush puppies and popcorn shrimp; adjusts tartar sauce based on feedback.
  • Lobsterfest Continues: Enhanced promotional efforts despite previous financial struggles.
  • Positive Customer Response: Slight increase in traffic after restructuring phase.

Sources: Salon

Importance of Video Surveillance in Businesses

Video surveillance enhances safety, operational efficiency, and profitability.

  • Deters Crime: Discourages vandalism and shoplifting with visibility at entrances and cash registers.
  • Supports Injury Claims: Helps verify claims and reduce fraud risk in slip and fall incidents.
  • Potential Insurance Discounts: Insurance companies may lower premiums for robust surveillance systems.
  • Parking Lot Safety: Combined with adequate lighting, reduces vehicle theft and improves safety for clients and staff.

Sources: Society Insurance

Rural Resistance to Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs)

Communities fight against the establishment of CAFOs due to environmental and social concerns.

  • Case Study: Lowell and Evelyn Trom's legal battle against a proposed CAFO housing 2,400 pigs.
  • Impact on Community: Air and water pollution, eroded community bonds, and intimidation tactics.
  • Grassroots Movements: Education and organization are vital for communities to push back against corporate encroachment.

Sources: Civil Eats

Consumer Perception of Artificial Sweeteners

Despite FDA affirmations of safety, consumers remain cautious about low- and no-calorie sweeteners (LNCS).

  • Safety Concerns: Surveys show 11% reduced LNCS intake due to safety concerns after recent studies.
  • Preferred Sweeteners: Honey is the top caloric sweetener; stevia leads among LNCS.
  • Desire for Clarity: Consumers find dietary advice around sweeteners confusing, seeking clear health guidance.

Sources: Food Business News

Restaurant Industry Updates in Brief

  • Post Holdings' Financial Growth: Reported significant earnings increase, net income for Q4 rose 24.2% to $81.6 million.
  • Danone Raises Lifeway Offer: Upped its acquisition offer from $25 to $27 per share, totaling nearly $300 million.
  • Leadership Change at Nothing Bundt Cakes: Joel Larkin appointed as chief development officer to spearhead the opening of its 1,000th bakery by 2027.

Sources: Food Business News

Costco Issues Butter Recall

Costco recalls nearly 80,000 pounds of butter due to an undeclared allergen—milk.

  • Affected Products: Salted and unsalted Kirkland Signature butter.
  • Health Risk: Classified as Class II recall; minor risk to allergic consumers.
  • Customer Advisory: Advised to return the product for a refund.

Sources: Salon

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