November 25th QSR Roundup: Naked Farmer's Fresh Approach to Sustainability and Localization in Dining

QSR news for Nov 25th, 2024. We reviewed 21 QSR publications, 6 subreddits, and over 53 articles to bring you the latest. Estimated reading time saved (at 200wpm): 150 minutes. It'll take you only 8 minutes to catch up.

Naked Farmer's Commitment to Local Sourcing

Naked Farmer, founded in 2020, is revolutionizing fast-casual dining with its hyper-local sourcing approach. CEO Jordan Johnson aims to rebuild local food systems by partnering with small farms, reducing the length of the food supply chain.

Their menu is seasonally driven, changing to reflect Mother Nature's flow, and they pride themselves on having no can openers or freezers in their kitchens. This dedication to freshness and sustainability has led to strong customer loyalty. With eight locations and plans to expand, Naked Farmer is not just serving food but also enhancing local economies.

Highlights:

• Adapted to COVID-19 by offering farm boxes with fresh, local goods.
• Uses creative herbs and housemade dressings to elevate dishes.
• About 50% of their menu features organic produce.
• Committed to sustainability with compostable takeout materials.

Source: QSR Magazine

Restaurant Expansions and New Concepts

Bertucci's Pronto Launching in Boston

Bertucci’s is introducing a quick-service spinoff, Bertucci’s Pronto, set to open in Boston's Government Center by spring 2025. Aiming to provide a take-out friendly experience while maintaining their signature quality, the menu will feature brick oven pizzas, salads, and breakfast items. This move marks Bertucci's return to the Boston area after overcoming financial challenges.

Source: FSR Magazine

Huey Magoo's Growth in South Carolina

Huey Magoo's celebrates the opening of its 70th location in Greenwood, SC. Franchisees Bo and John Knapp, with over 30 years of experience, plan to open 12 locations in total. The new restaurant features an outdoor patio and drive-thru, marking the brand's continued expansion.

Source: Franchising

Rooster’s Wood-fired Kitchen Debuts in Charlotte

Rooster’s Wood-fired Kitchen has opened its newest location at The Bowl at Ballantyne in Charlotte. The restaurant seats nearly 300 guests and offers an inviting atmosphere inspired by the Carolina outdoors. The menu includes wood-fired dishes like rotisserie chicken, hanger steak, and fried oysters.

Source: FSR Magazine

Delightful Holiday Treats and Offers

Jimmy John's Chocolate Peppermint Cookie

Starting November 25, Jimmy John's is offering a Chocolate Peppermint Cookie made with OREO. From December 2-8, sales will support the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, enhancing youth programs. This festive cookie combines dark chocolate and candy cane bits, making it a must-try for the holiday season!

Source: QSR Magazine

Ponderosa and Bonanza Thanksgiving Buffet

Ponderosa and Bonanza Steakhouses are hosting their annual Thanksgiving Buffet on November 28, featuring a generous spread of traditional favorites like Roasted Turkey, Fried Chicken, and Butterfly Shrimp. For those preferring to dine at home, $12 takeout platters are available.

Source: FSR Magazine

Noodles & Co Holiday Merchandise

Noodles & Co has launched its first-ever Noodles Merch Store, featuring festive items like sweaters, holiday onesies, and sneakers. A special 50% discount on limited-edition onesies is available from Black Friday to Cyber Monday, perfect for fans looking to celebrate their love for Noodles.

Source: Pizza Marketplace

Industry Leadership Changes

Co-CEOs Appointed at Tom's Watch Bar

Tom’s Watch Bar has named Brooks Schaden and Shannon McNiel as co-CEOs, succeeding Tom Ryan and Rick Schaden. With extensive industry experience, the new leaders aim to drive national expansion and enhance the sports viewing experience with the bar's unique 360-degree viewing environment.

Source: Restaurant Business, Nation's Restaurant News

Greg Ebel to Lead PRIDE Centric Resources

Greg Ebel has been appointed as the new CEO of PRIDE Centric Resources, effective January 6, 2025. He succeeds Karin Sugarman, who is retiring after 28 years with the organization. Ebel brings a wealth of experience from previous leadership roles at Manitowoc Ice and Everpure.

Source: Foodservice Equipment & Supplies

Sean Evans Promoted at Hoshizaki America

Hoshizaki America has promoted Sean Evans to Regional Sales Director for the South-Central Region. With over 15 years in the HVAC/R industry, Evans is well-suited to lead in his new role, having started his refrigeration expertise in the United States Air Force.

Source: Foodservice Equipment & Supplies

Tipping Trends and Dynamic Pricing

Recent studies highlight a significant shift in consumer attitudes towards tipping:

• 60% of consumers express fatigue towards tipping culture, up from 53% last year.
• There's a decline in the number of customers tipping 20% or more, dropping from 56% in 2021 to just 38%.
• Average tipping now stands at 18%, with consumers spending more time evaluating prices due to dynamic pricing strategies.

Restaurants are considering strategies to counteract negative perceptions:

1. Reframing Pricing: Using promotions like happy hours to shift the focus from loss to gain.
2. Enhancing Value: Offering premium ingredients to make customers feel they're getting more for their money.
3. Location-Based Pricing: Adjusting prices based on regional trends to maximize profits.

The goal is to restore customer trust and adapt to evolving consumer expectations.

Source: Restaurant Dive, Modern Restaurant Management

Technology Transforming Restaurant Operations

Technology is playing a pivotal role in enhancing restaurant efficiency:

• Reduced Wait Times: Streamlining operations to serve customers faster.
• Improved Accuracy: Utilizing tech to minimize order errors.
• Inventory Management: Back-office tools aid in predictive analytics.

At the Fast Casual Executive Summit, experts emphasized the importance of:

• Solid POS Foundations: Essential for supporting innovative technologies.
• Balance Between Automation and Service: While tech can help with labor shortages, maintaining quality service is crucial.
• Specific Innovations: Tools like cooking oil management systems and streamlined payroll processes can improve operations and employee satisfaction.

Restaurants are encouraged to adapt their technology stack to meet evolving needs, recognizing there's no one-size-fits-all solution.

Source: Fast Casual

Market Expansion and Acquisitions

Aldi's Ambitious Growth Plan

Aldi USA is set to make a bold move by investing $9 billion to open 800 new stores over five years, aiming to boost its total to 3,200 locations. The company currently operates 2,400 stores across 38 states.

• Supplier Partnerships: Aldi scores high in supplier satisfaction, emphasizing strong relationships.
• Quality Commitment: Examines over 35,000 items annually to maintain high standards.
• Private Label Success: Store brands are experiencing unprecedented momentum, with a 20.4% dollar share.

Source: Food Business News

PepsiCo's Acquisition of Sabra and Obela

PepsiCo, Inc. is acquiring the remaining 50% interest in the manufacturers of Sabra and Obela from Strauss Group. This move will expand PepsiCo's footprint in the refrigerated dips and spreads market, aiming to meet the growing demand for nutritious, convenient options.

• Sabra and Obela: Known for products like hummus and guacamole.
• Strategic Growth: Follows PepsiCo’s acquisition of Siete Foods for $1.2 billion in October.

Source: Food Business News

Advances in Plant-Based Meats

Major food companies are making strides in developing plant-based meat alternatives that closely mimic real meat in taste, texture, and appearance.

Key Components:

• Proteins: Derived from soy, wheat gluten, and legumes for texture.
• Fats: Oils like canola and coconut enhance flavor and mouthfeel.
• Flavor Additives: Yeast extracts and amino acids replicate savory meat flavors.
• Visual Appeal: Natural colorings and shaping techniques make alternatives look like meat dishes.

Market Growth:

• The plant-based meat market is projected to exceed $7 billion in 2023.
• Expected to grow by nearly 20% by 2030.

Source: Salon

Online Community Insights

Kitchen Curtain Solutions

Restaurant owners discussed options for kitchen curtains to block light and maintain privacy:

• Swinging Doors: Preferred over curtains due to hygiene concerns, as fabrics can accumulate dirt and bacteria.
• Cleanliness: Emphasis on maintaining a tidy kitchen to avoid deterring customers.
• Visibility Management: Effective barriers are essential to prevent customers from seeing a hectic kitchen environment.

Source: /r/restaurantowners

Best Handheld Can Openers

A search for durable handheld can openers yielded several recommendations:

• Ganji Can Opener: Praised for simplicity and lifetime durability.
• Swing-Away Opener: Noted for reliability in commercial kitchens.
• Commercial Models: Investing in quality equipment ensures longevity in a busy kitchen.

Takeaway: Quality tools are essential in a restaurant setting to withstand heavy use.

Source: /r/restaurantowners

Legal and Regulatory Updates

E. Coli Beef Recall

Wolverine Packing Co. has recalled 167,277 pounds of ground beef due to potential E. coli O157:H7 contamination.

• Affected Products: Fresh items with a use-by date of Nov. 14 and frozen products with a production date of 10 22 24.
• Illnesses Reported: 15 cases linked to the beef between Nov. 2 and Nov. 10.
• Advisory: Consumers are urged to discard the products, and restaurants are cautioned about possible storage of affected items.

Health Impact: E. coli can cause severe health issues requiring immediate medical attention.

Source: Nation's Restaurant News

Maple Leaf Foods vs. Canada Bread

Maple Leaf Foods Inc. has filed a lawsuit against Canada Bread Co. Ltd. and its parent company, Grupo Bimbo, for defamation related to bread pricing allegations.

• Background: Stemming from a Competition Bureau investigation into price-fixing between 2001 and 2015.
• Claims: Maple Leaf alleges false statements were made by Canada Bread during the investigation.
• Counterclaims: Canada Bread denies the allegations, calling them baseless.

Note: Both companies are involved in an ongoing legal battle over these serious claims.

Source: Food Business News

Holiday Food Gifts and Subscriptions

Looking for the perfect gift? Food subscription boxes are a delightful way to surprise loved ones throughout the year:

• Murray’s Cheese Club: Artisan cheeses delivered monthly.
• Eater Wine Club: Curated wines for enthusiasts.
• Trade Coffee: Personalized coffee selections from various roasters.
• Salt & Straw Pints Club: Five unique ice cream pints each month.

These subscriptions are a fuss-free way to keep the holiday spirit alive year-round!

Source: Eater

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