November 20th QSR Roundup: From Rising Stars in Fast Food to Community-Centric Initiatives and Holiday Treats

Interviewy Team

Nov 20, 2024 — 17 min read

QSR news for Nov 20th, 2024. We reviewed 21 QSR publications, 6 subreddits, and over 116 articles to bring you the latest. Estimated reading time saved (at 200wpm): 365 minutes. It'll take you only 22 minutes to catch up.

Strengthening Supply Chain Practices

McDonald's is grappling with challenges following a recent E. coli outbreak linked to its Quarter Pounder, highlighting the necessity for enhanced supply chain quality controls. Consistency in food safety is crucial for maintaining customer loyalty, as any disruption can quickly erode trust and reduce foot traffic.

Supply Chain Risks: The incident underscores the dangers of depending on a single supplier.
Best Practices:
- Implementing automated monitoring systems.
- Conducting comprehensive safety audits.
Learning from Peers: Drawing lessons from industry leaders like Chipotle and KFC on proactive food safety measures.

Evolving consumer expectations demand greater transparency and proactive steps in food safety to uphold trust and operational integrity.

Source: QSR Magazine

Mark your calendars for December 4th, National Cookie Day! 🍪 Otis Spunkmeyer is ready to sweeten the celebration with delightful cookie recipes to satisfy cravings and boost your sales.

Irresistible Recipes: Try the Cinnamon and Sugar Pinwheel Cookies, perfect for enticing impulsive purchases.
Festive Offerings: The Cranberry Oatmeal Pie Cups combine seasonal flavors into a mini dessert delight.
Sweet Treats: Enhance the White Out Macadamia Nut Cookies with royal icing for a seasonal twist.

With Otis Spunkmeyer's frozen cookie dough, consistency and ease in baking are guaranteed, making it simple for businesses to spread cookie love this holiday season.

Source: QSR Magazine

Creative Energy Expands Team

Creative Energy has bolstered its client service team by welcoming Jackie Silver, who brings nearly 20 years of significant agency experience.

Previously held key roles at top firms like Leo Burnett and BBDO.
Managed major accounts such as ALDI, Lay’s, and Johnson & Johnson.
Highlights the advantages of working in a smaller agency for quicker results and deeper client involvement.

Alongside other notable hires, Creative Energy aims to elevate client service across a diverse range of brands.

Source: QSR Magazine

Honoring a Legacy

Greg Smith, beloved franchise owner of Dickey’s Barbecue Pit in Dothan, Alabama, passed away suddenly. To honor his memory, his brother Mike Smith III and partner Larry Brunson are offering a special ‘Buy One, Get One Free’ Pulled Pork Sandwich promotion from November 20-27.

Use the code ‘DOTHAN’ in-store or online to enjoy this offer.
Mike is dedicated to continuing Greg's work and fostering the community aspect of the restaurant.
CEO Laura Rea Dickey highlights Greg's dedication and service.
Roland Dickey, Jr. acknowledges Greg's entrepreneurial spirit.

Visit the Dothan location to celebrate Greg's legacy and enjoy great barbecue.

Source: QSR Magazine

Cheba Hut Expands to Virginia

Cheba Hut 'Toasted' Subs partners with WAHI Brands Inc. for a 10-store development in Virginia, marking their expansion into the state.

Celebrates counterculture through unique sandwiches and a full bar.
Founded in 1998, now boasts over 70 locations across 15 states.
First Virginia location expected by 2025.
Continues the trend of using fresh ingredients and a distinct atmosphere that resonates with its loyal customer base.

Source: QSR Magazine

KFC Foundation Scholarships

In 2024, the KFC Foundation awarded $2.5 million in scholarships to over 450 KFC employees in the U.S.

Eleven recipients received $20,000 scholarships.
Others received amounts between $2,500 to $10,000.
Alondra Brito, a first-generation student from Glendale, AZ, received a $20,000 scholarship to pursue psychology at the University of Arizona.
Next scholarship applications open from January 10 to February 17, with awards ranging from $2,500 to $20,000.

Source: QSR Magazine

Taco Bell Scholarship Boost

The Taco Bell Foundation has launched the 10th annual Live Más Scholarship application, offering up to $14 million in funding for students aged 16 to 26 in 2025, a significant increase from $10 million last year.

Open to Taco Bell Team Members and customers.
Applicants submit a 2-minute video showcasing their passions.
Scholarships up to $25,000 available.
Since inception, nearly 3,000 scholars have received over $50 million in support.
The application period is open until January 8, 2025.

Source: QSR Magazine

Barrio Burrito Bar Expands

BurritoBar, USA Inc. awarded Master Franchise rights for Louisiana, planning to launch 45 new locations under the Barrio Burrito Bar brand.

Known for fresh ingredients and unique menu items.
Rebranded in 2024 to enhance recognition and appeal.
Rapid growth includes agreements in multiple states, totaling over 900 franchised units.
CEO Alex Shtein welcomes new Master Franchise Partner Marc in Louisiana.

Source: QSR Magazine

Biscuit Belly Expands to Florida

Biscuit Belly is seeking franchise partners in Orlando and Tampa, marking its entry into Florida's food scene.

Plans to open a minimum of 4 locations in each city.
Brand known for chef-driven gourmet biscuit breakfast sandwiches.
Promises a quick 45-minute dining experience.
Co-founder Chad Coulter highlights Florida's vibrant food culture as a key motivator for expansion.
Founded in 2019, has 12 locations in Kentucky, with plans for further growth, including Atlanta.

Source: QSR Magazine

Smoothie King Appoints New CIO

Smoothie King has appointed Jyoti Lynch as its new Chief Information Officer (CIO) to lead the brand’s technology strategy and enhance digital transformation.

Lynch brings 25+ years of experience in tech and operations.
Aims to grow revenue and improve customer experiences.
Smoothie King recently celebrated its highest store openings in a quarter in six years.

Source: QSR Magazine

Vicious Biscuit’s Holiday Offerings

Vicious Biscuit delights with festive treats, available from November 29 to December 31.

White Peppermint Mocha Latte: Blends white chocolate with peppermint and espresso, served hot or iced, priced at $5.50.
Sweet Potato Biscuit: Combines sweet potatoes with cinnamon and brown sugar, priced at $3.50.
The Angry Elf Cocktail: A winter drink mixing peppermint with Bailey’s, Kahlua, and Jameson, topped with a cinnamon-sugar rim, available for $12.
Catering options: Include Sweet Puppies, Vicious Beignets, and biscuits by the dozen ($30-35).
Merchandise and gift cards available with discounts, perfect for holiday gifts.

Source: QSR Magazine

Toppers Pizza Expands in Wisconsin

Toppers Pizza is set to open a new location in Monona-McFarland, Wisconsin, in 2025, reducing the need for fans to travel to Madison for their favorite pizza.

Operated by siblings Theresa and Cyrus Hoppe, long-time enthusiasts of the brand.
Toppers has experienced rapid growth, recently signing deals for new locations in multiple states.
Focuses on internal growth, with many franchisees starting as drivers.
Emphasizes bold flavors and innovative menu options.

Source: QSR Magazine

Swig’s Save The Cups Success

Swig's 5th annual Save The Cups campaign raised over $364,000 in October, surpassing its goal and bringing the total to over $1 million in five years.

Founder Nicole Tanner personally connects to the cause, having battled breast cancer without insurance in 2009.
Funds directly support women facing breast cancer, with 30 women assisted in the 2023 campaign.
Customer contributions came from purchasing specific drinks and merchandise.
Applications for assistance for 2024 are now open at SaveTheCups.org.

Source: QSR Magazine

Scooter's Coffee Mystery Drink Contest

Scooter’s Coffee launches a limited-edition Mystery Drink this winter, inviting customers to guess its ingredients through social media clues.

Participants can win a VIP trip for two to the Scooter’s Coffee Frisco Bowl in Texas.
Other prizes include exclusive swag and gift cards.
Each drink features a QR code for flavor guesses.
Contest runs from November 18 to December 1, 2024.

Source: QSR Magazine

Delta and Shake Shack Partnership

An exciting collaboration between Delta Airlines and Shake Shack brings cheeseburgers to flights.

Launching December 1 from Boston, expanding across the U.S. by 2025.
Exclusive for First Class customers on routes over 900 miles.
Shake Shack cheeseburger features 100% Angus beef, customizable with toppings like ShackSauce.
Includes sides: chips, Caesar salad, and a rich brownie.
Options can be selected or changed via the Fly Delta app up to 24 hours before flight.

Source: QSR Magazine

Auntie Anne’s Football Buckets Return

Auntie Anne’s revives its popular Football Buckets, featuring a new design for the Super Bowl weekend.

Allows fans to mix two flavors of bite-size pretzels: Original, Cinnamon Sugar, Pepperoni, or Mini Dogs.
Stylish bucket sleeve and built-in divider enhance the snacking experience.
Fans in Atlanta or Austin can enjoy Bijan Mustardson dip cups for an added kick.
Perfect for all types of fans during watch parties.

Source: QSR Magazine

Bad Ass Coffee Expansion

Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii signs an agreement to open a new location in Kenosha, Wisconsin, within a 19,000-square-foot travel plaza by Q2 2025.

Led by Paul Bhardwaj, CEO of Golden Oil, with extensive experience in QSR.
Aims to tap into the booming coffee market near three college campuses.
Bad Ass Coffee provides extensive development support for franchisees.
Recognized as one of America's top emerging fast casual brands.

Source: QSR Magazine

Olo’s Round Up Donations Launch

Olo Inc. introduces Round Up Donations at checkout, allowing guests to contribute to charitable causes effortlessly.

Collaboration with Tropical Smoothie Cafe supports No Kid Hungry.
10% participation raised over $7,000.
Olo’s platform Serve optimizes charitable giving, enhancing user experience.
Both companies have committed to ending childhood hunger by signing the CEO Pledge to End Summer Hunger.

Source: QSR Magazine

Twin Peaks' Conversion Success

Twin Peaks successfully converted its first Smokey Bones location in Lakeland, Florida, leading to a $5 million increase in annualized average unit volume (AUV).

From $3.6 million as Smokey Bones to $8.3 million as Twin Peaks.
Saves 18 months in construction time and costs less than building new restaurants.
Plans to convert 30 Smokey Bones stores into Twin Peaks by 2026.
Aims to grow Twin Peaks to 650 U.S. locations and 250 international locations.

Source: FSR Magazine

T’s Brunch Bar Expands

T’s Brunch Bar opens its second location in Cumberland Mall, Atlanta, offering classic brunch dishes with a twist.

Located near popular eateries like Buffalo Wild Wings and The Cheesecake Factory.
Signature dishes include Crab Fingers, Fried Green Tomatoes, and a unique 14K Gold Steak Dinner.
Drinks feature The Magic City, a blend of Crown Royal Peach and champagne.
A third location will debut on November 29 in Douglasville at Arbor Place Mall.
Focus on fresh food and great flavor, with consistent aesthetic and brand.

Source: FSR Magazine

Sra. Martinez Launch

Chef Michelle Bernstein returns to Coral Gables with a new Sra. Martinez, opening in December.

Menu inspired by Spanish cuisine with diverse influences from Chef Bernstein’s travels.
Highlights include wood-fired dishes like Rabo Encendido Paella and Whole Fire-Roasted Fish.
Unique appetizers such as Carbonara Croquetas.
Cocktails play a central role, from classic martinis to signature drinks.
Aims to create a community gathering spot with live musical entertainment.

Source: FSR Magazine

New Family Meal Deals

On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina introduces two new family-style fajita feasts:

Ultimate Fajita Feast: Features four meats, including fire-grilled skirt steak and chicken.
Family Pick Two Feast: Allows customers to choose two of their favorite fire-grilled meats.
Promotion: $10 off any new Family Fajita Feast until November 27.
Served with sides including flour tortillas, fresh pico de gallo, cheese, and guacamole.

These feasts offer quality meals at a great price, perfect for holiday gatherings.

Source: FSR Magazine

California Minimum Wage Rejected

California voters have rejected Proposition 32, which proposed an increase in the minimum wage to $18 per hour.

Close vote: 50.8% against, 49.2% in favor.
Marks the first time in 30 years that a statewide minimum wage increase has been turned down.
Current minimum wage remains at $16 an hour.
Recent legislation set the wage at $20 per hour for fast-food workers.
Critics claimed it would lead to financial difficulties for small businesses and increased consumer prices.

Source: FSR Magazine

Houston's Cocktail Revolution

Julep, founded by Alba Huerta in 2014, integrates Southern hospitality, Mexican-American heritage, and local ingredients, setting a new standard in Houston's cocktail scene.

Julep Day declared on November 18, commemorating the bar's 10th anniversary.
Acclaimed with a James Beard Award.
Signature cocktails like the Cherry Bounce Sour, featuring bonded corn whiskey and house-made cherry bounce.
Plans to expand private events and explore cocktail modernization through a new section called The Parlor.

Source: FSR Magazine

Chipotle's 1,000th Chipotlane Opening

Chipotle opens its 1,000th Chipotlane in Olathe, Kansas, on November 21, 2024, as part of a strategy to enhance customer service.

Nearly 30% of Chipotle's 3,600 locations feature this mobile order pickup lane.
Averages just 30 seconds for order retrieval.
Plans to open 315 to 345 new locations in 2025, with 80% including Chipotlanes.
Aims for a total of 7,000 restaurants in North America.

Source: Restaurant Dive

Paytronix Software Upgrades

Paytronix has enhanced its digital engagement platform for convenience stores and restaurants.

AI Tool: The Paytronix Assistant answers retailer questions and provides data guidance.
Additive Lead Times: Allows settings for delivery timing and order limits.
Loyalty Growth: Aims to expand loyalty memberships and boost revenue.
Data Insights: Operators can analyze rewards program performance.

Source: Restaurant Dive

Smoothie King's Tech Strategy

Smoothie King hires Jyoti Lynch as CIO to develop a technology strategy aimed at seamless guest experiences and franchise profitability.

Achieved record growth with 28 new store openings in a single quarter.
Total of 1,200 units with commitments for 38 more across 12 states.

Source: Restaurant Dive

Jersey Mike's Sells Majority Stake

Jersey Mike's has entered an agreement to sell a majority stake to Blackstone, with founder Peter Cancro retaining a significant equity portion and management role.

Projected Completion: Early 2025, pending approvals.
Valuation: Estimated at around $8 billion.
Expansion Plans: Aims for 300 new openings in 2024.
International Leap: 300-unit deal in Canada.
Tech Development: Partnership with SoundHound for AI voice ordering.

Source: Restaurant Dive

Holiday Coffee Innovations

Peet’s Coffee and Dutch Bros unveil exciting seasonal drinks for the holiday season with innovative flavors and mocktails.

Peet’s 2024 winter drinks: Mocktail-inspired offerings like the Derby, Bestie, and Tiger’s Eye.
Dutch Bros introduces festive beverages like Candy Cane and Hazelnut Truffle Mochas.
Beverage creation involves extensive planning, often two years in advance.
Success measured using metrics like sales velocity and customer engagement.

Source: Restaurant Dive

Wendy's New CFO and Profitability

Wendy's appoints Ken Cook as the new CFO, replacing Gunther Plosch.

Cook brings 20 years of financial experience from UPS.
Wendy's aims for growth while closing 140 underperforming stores.
Same-store sales increased by 0.5% so far in 2024.

Source: Restaurant Dive

Raw Milk Dangers Explained

Concerns over raw milk resurgence linked to potential easing of access despite public health risks.

Raw milk comes unpasteurized, posing risks like E. coli and salmonella.
Health threats: Symptoms include diarrhea and severe illnesses.
Recent outbreaks: Hundreds fell ill from raw milk in 2024.
Experts strongly recommend against consuming raw milk.

Source: Eater

Pasta Making Debate

Melanie Lionello explores traditional pasta-making versus modern alternatives using the well method.

Many chefs support the well for its tactile approach.
Some argue for bowl methods for convenience.
Raises questions about tradition versus practicality in home cooking.

Source: Eater

Delicious Holiday Panettone

The holiday season invites indulgence in authentic panettone, a traditional Italian bread with fruit and nuts.

High-quality panettone is made over days and comes at a premium price.
Perfect time to enjoy before they run out this season.

Source: Eater

George Motz's Burger Legacy

George Motz, founder of Hamburger America, delves into the history of burgers with a simple yet impactful menu.

Fried onion burger: Celebrates Oklahoma's tradition.
Classic smash burger: Inspired by Midwest burger slingers.
Rotating special: Recreates iconic regional burgers monthly.
Aims to elevate appreciation of American hamburgers by highlighting their origins.

Source: Eater

Gift Ideas for Wine Lovers

Wine gifting requires understanding personal preferences and trends.

Gifts like glasses, decanters, and wine openers enhance appreciation.
Insights from sommeliers and collectors guide choices.

Source: Eater

A Baker's Deep Dive

Sift: The Elements of Great Baking by Nicola Lamb combines practical baking techniques with solid recipes.

Covers baking fundamentals with diagrams.
Includes base recipes and creative twists on classics.
Emphasizes learning from failures to boost confidence.

Source: Eater

Make Gravy Ahead

Preparing gravy in advance reduces Thanksgiving hosting stress.

Make gravy before Thanksgiving to avoid chaos.
Use quality stock and create a roux for flavor.
Store and reheat easily for convenience.

Source: Eater

Black Friday Appliance Deals

Black Friday offers significant savings on kitchen appliances.

Amazon, Best Buy, Home Depot, Lowe’s, and others have early deals.
Great time to invest in essential appliances at discounted prices.

Source: Eater

HungerRush Feedback Tool

HungerRush launches Feedback, a customer engagement tool for restaurants.

Enables immediate action on feedback.
Features customized surveys and Google Review integration.
Centralized feedback dashboard for trend analysis.

Source: QSR Web

Fired Pie Files for Bankruptcy

Fired Pie, a Phoenix-based fast-casual chain, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

Parent company NWFI LLC reported up to $1 million in assets against liabilities of up to $10 million.
Operates 14 locations in Arizona.
Aims to restructure its business.

Source: QSR Web

Jersey Mike's $8 Billion Acquisition

Blackstone is acquiring Jersey Mike's for $8 billion.

Deal will close in early 2025, pending approvals.
CEO Peter Cancro remains with a significant equity stake.
Jersey Mike's reported $3.3 billion in sales for 2023, a 25% increase.
Boasts over 3,000 locations.

Source: QSR Web

Rising Popularity of Caviar

Caviar and fish roe usage in restaurants has surged.
Alternatives like salmon or capelin roe offer economical options.
Sturgeon aquafarms are expanding globally.
Adds a luxurious touch to dining experiences.
The global caviar market is valued at $330 million.

Source: BlueCart

Roe Wholesale Market Insights

Roe and caviar sales have increased.
Businesses like cruise lines and sushi bars purchase roe in bulk.
Buying wholesale reduces costs and increases menu options.
The market is expected to grow as luxury perceptions diminish.

Source: BlueCart

Enhancing Food Safety Protocols

Recent outbreaks highlight vulnerabilities in food safety systems.
Operators urged to monitor early warning signs to prevent contamination.
Technology plays a vital role in avoiding foodborne illness spread.
Effective monitoring includes real-time detection and hygiene compliance.

Source: Modern Restaurant Management

Restaurant Workforce Trends

1.7% Growth: The restaurant industry added 210,300 jobs in 2024.
Labor Market Struggles: 65% of managers find the labor market tight.
Tech Integration: 65% adopted new technologies.
Optimism for 2025: 67% of managers anticipate a promising year ahead.

Source: Modern Restaurant Management

Rise of Solo Dining

60% have dined solo in the past year.
Restaurants encouraged to adapt to this trend.
Offering smaller menus and utilizing modern technology can enhance experience.

Source: Modern Restaurant Management

Revival of Regional Milling

A new community of millers is revitalizing America's regional grain heritage.

Craft Millers Guild aims to restore local grain economies.
Once over 28,000 mills operated in America.
Supporting local businesses like Carolina Ground.
Promotes best practices and advocates for local grains.

Source: Civil Eats

Food Security in Appalachia

Black communities in rural Appalachia face significant food insecurity challenges.

13% food insecurity rate, above the national average.
Limited access to grocery stores.
Systemic issues like historical discrimination exacerbate challenges.
Advocacy work highlights the need for systemic change.

Source: Civil Eats