October 19th QSR Roundup: From Tech Overhauls to Community-Centric Franchises and Culinary Innovations

QSR news for Oct 19th, 2024. We reviewed 21 QSR publications, 6 subreddits, and over 46 articles to bring you the latest. Estimated reading time saved (at 200wpm): 137 minutes. It'll take you only 14 minutes to catch up.

Technological Advancements in Restaurants

Revolutionizing Restaurant Tech

Dickey’s Barbecue's Tech Transformation

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit has completed an ambitious three-year technology overhaul aimed at enhancing operations without disrupting the customer experience.

• Microservices Framework: Transitioned to a microservices architecture, allowing for quicker updates and improved system performance.
• Invisible Upgrades: Most changes are behind the scenes, providing franchisees and employees with better resources.
• User-Friendly Management: Managers can now customize menus, labor schedules, and promotions via a mobile app with fewer clicks.
• Operational Efficiency: The new structure enables faster implementations, leading to improved customer satisfaction.
• Future-Proof System: Designed to be nimble and scalable for future needs, functioning like a connected train line rather than a traditional assembly line.

Source: Nation's Restaurant News

SMG Acquires Bulbshare for Enhanced Experience Management

Kansas City-based SMG is acquiring London-based Bulbshare, an AI-powered platform that connects brands with customer insights.

• Real-Time Data Analysis: Provides brands with real-time data for effective decision-making.
• Combining CX and BX: Merges customer experience (CX) and brand experience (BX) management for collaborative innovation.
• Improved Customer Relationships: Aims to enhance customer participation in experience enhancement.
• Leadership Integration: Bulbshare's CEO, Matt Hay, will join SMG, signaling a unified approach.

Source: Restaurant Operator Daily

Restaurant Delivery Poised for Boom

The restaurant delivery business is on the verge of significant growth due to various favorable trends.

• Tech Advancements: Integration of robust technologies is set to streamline operations and enhance customer experiences.
• Changing Consumer Behaviors: Customers are increasingly embracing convenience and online ordering.
• Collaborative Partnerships: Restaurants are forming strategic alliances with delivery platforms to expand reach.
• Potential Challenges: Competition and maintaining quality in delivery services remain concerns.

Source: Restaurant Business

Franchise Growth and Expansion

Franchise Success Stories and Expansion

Amanda Brown's Rapid Rise with Beef-A-Roo

• From Flight Attendant to Franchisee: Amanda Brown transitioned from a 12-year career as a flight attendant to owning a Beef-A-Roo franchise in Michigan after becoming a mother.
• Community Engagement: Emphasizes local involvement, contributing to events like school pep rallies and enhancing community spirit with murals.
• Rapid Growth: Began as a crew member, quickly advancing to franchise owner due to strong performance.
• Expansion Plans: Aims to open one restaurant each year for the next five years, focusing on local growth.
• Unique Design: Her location is uniquely built from storage containers, reflecting a creative approach.

Source: Nation's Restaurant News

Growth Through Strategic Partnerships

Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux and Smalls Sliders showcase impressive growth through partnerships.

• Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux:
  • Reported 80 locations and $300 million in sales for 2023, marking a 12% increase year-on-year.
  • Founder Brandon Landry faced early rejection before successfully funding the first location.
  • Drew Brees became an investor in 2014, fueling growth.
• Smalls Sliders:
  • Boasts over 300 units across 24 states.
  • Gained critical support from 10 Point Capital, emphasizing shared values.
  • CEO Maria Rivera focuses on disciplined growth and collaboration.

Source: Nation's Restaurant News

Ike's Love & Sandwiches Debuts in New Orleans

Ike’s Love & Sandwiches is set to open in New Orleans this Halloween.

• Over 100 Celebrity Collaboration Sandwiches: Offers a unique menu with exclusive creations.
• 'Beign-yays': A twist on the classic beignet, blending with the city's vibrant culture.
• Diverse Menu: Caters to meat lovers, vegetarians, and vegans.

Source: QSR Magazine

Krak Boba Expands to Indiana

• Launching its 17th franchise location in South Bend, Indiana.
• Known for an extensive menu of traditional milk teas, smoothies, coffee drinks, and fruit teas.
• Offers over 100 exciting flavors, including signature options like Queen Brûlée and Taro Twist.

Source: Franchising

Blaze Pizza Opens New Location in Idaho

• Blaze Pizza is set to open in Meridian, Idaho.
• Grand Opening Deals: Offering a free 11-inch build-your-own pizza for all in-store guests.
• Family-Owned Franchise: Managed by locals Denny, Chase, and Drew Wagstaff.
• Commitment to Quality: Sourcing fresh dairy from Nederend Dairies & Farms, just 45 minutes from Boise.
• Continued Expansion: Part of over 300 locations across 38 states and three countries.

Source: QSR Web

Leadership Changes in the Industry

New Faces in Restaurant Leadership

Patrick Kirk and Marshall Claycamp Join Fuzzy's Taco Shop

Fuzzy’s Taco Shop announces key leadership promotions.

• Patrick Kirk appointed as President and Chief Marketing Officer.
  • Responsible for shaping the Fuzzy’s experience and driving future growth.
  • Known for boosting Applebee’s beverage sector into a billion-dollar business.
• Marshall Claycamp becomes Chief Operations Officer.
  • Previously with IHOP as Executive Director of Operations Services.
• National Expansion: Both leaders to leverage backgrounds to unlock Fuzzy's potential.

Source: QSR Magazine

Starbucks Appoints Tressie Lieberman as New CMO

• Tressie Lieberman named global chief brand officer.
• Background: Former CMO at Yahoo and held significant roles at Chipotle and Yum Brands.
• Responsibilities: Overseeing marketing, product development, and data analytics.
• Strategic Shift: Comes as Starbucks faces sales struggles, especially among occasional customers.
• CEO Brian Niccol's Vision: Emphasizes the need to ‘reintroduce’ Starbucks and improve market presence.

Source: Restaurant Business

Notable Leadership Changes Across the Industry

• Kate Trumbull promoted to CMO of Domino’s Pizza, leading global marketing starting Nov. 1.
• Jyoti Lynch resigns as CTO of Red Robin; CFO Todd Wilson to temporarily fill the role.
• Kevin Flaherty becomes CMO for Taco John’s, focusing on digital growth.
• Anirban Kundu shifts from Uber Eats to CTO at Instacart to spearhead tech innovations.

Source: Restaurant Business

Seasonal and Special Offerings

Seasonal Delights and Promotional Events

Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken Introduces Comfort Food Favorites

• 10 Piece Strips Box and popular Chicken Pot Pie available starting October 15.
• Chicken Pot Pie:
  • Handmade daily.
  • Sees a 65% increase in winter sales.
• Convenient Family Meals: The strips box paired with sides and biscuits offers a hearty family option.
• Customer Experience: Pickup and delivery options enhanced via the Lee’s app.

Source: QSR Magazine

Pizza Inn Brings Back 'Bambi & Friends' Pizza

• Features venison, wild boar, and elk toppings.
• Celebrates hunting season with a unique offering.
• Award-Winning Campaign: Recognized with a Golden OBIE award.
• Availability: Limited time from October 18 to November 8, 2024, in select locations.

Source: FSR Magazine

Election Day Deals at Dave & Buster's

• Half-Priced Games all day on November 5.
• $5 Beers daily, featuring popular brands.
• Eat, Drink, Play Combo Meal for $19.99: Includes a $10 power card, entrée, and fountain drink.
• Late Night Bites: $5 specials Sundays to Thursdays after 10 PM.
• All You Can Eat Wings starting at $22.99 on Mondays and Thursdays.

Source: FSR Magazine

Popeyes Cajun Turkey Returns for Thanksgiving

• The Cajun Turkey is making a comeback for Thanksgiving 2024.
• Mixed customer reviews:
  • Some rave about its quality, calling it one of the best turkeys they've had.
  • Others found it underwhelming or stale in past experiences.
• Price Concerns: Some customers recall when it was priced at $39.99, noting potential price increases.

Source: /r/fastfood

Legal and Compliance Updates

Navigating Compliance in the Restaurant Industry

Spooky Wage and Hour Compliance Ahead of Halloween

With Halloween approaching, quick-service restaurants must navigate new compliance demands related to wage and hour laws to avoid pitfalls.

• Child Labor Rules: Department of Labor is tightening rules for minors under 18.
  • Hiring Minors:
    • Restrictive hours for ages 14-15: Max 18 hours/week during school, 40 otherwise.
    • No hazardous tasks for ages 16-17.
• Tip Pooling:
  • Managers cannot participate in tip pools.
  • Must follow stringent state laws, especially for mixed-tip pools.
• Tip Credits:
  • Compliance with the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) notice requirements is vital.
  • Training and understanding state laws are crucial to minimize risks.

Source: QSR Magazine

Critical Issues Facing Restaurants This Election Season

Michelle Korsmo, president and CEO of the National Restaurant Association, highlights key priorities.

• Rising Costs: Inflation and labor shortages threaten restaurant viability.
• Consumer Hesitation: 42% of adults are dining out less frequently.
• Immigration Reform: Crucial for filling essential labor roles.
• Tax Policies:
  • Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act is vital to support growth.
  • Tax incentives for equipment depreciation and cash flow management are essential.

Source: Restaurant Dive

Challenges and Insights in Restaurant Operations

Complexity vs. Simplicity in Menu Offerings

Chains are dramatically increasing new product introductions to attract customers amid weak traffic.

• Dramatic Surge: Major chains have ramped up product launches significantly this year.
• Market Response: Innovation aims to draw in customers during low traffic periods.
• Overwhelming Operations: Experts warn that heightened complexity might backfire.
• Balance Needed: Finding the sweet spot between creative offerings and manageable operations is crucial.

Source: Restaurant Business

Insurance Claims Insights for Restaurants

• Fires Lead in Compensation Requests: Understanding this trend helps manage risks.
• Equipment Breakdowns and Staff Issues: Drive frequent claims.
• Risk Management: Being aware of these trends can better prepare restaurants for potential issues.

Source: Restaurant Business

Overpaying for a Dream Restaurant?

An experienced restaurant owner considers purchasing a building for $335,000 that houses a failing restaurant.

• Concerns Over Value: Agents suggest the building is overvalued.
• Investment Perspective: Commenters emphasize viewing the purchase as an investment for future equity.
• Seller Financing: Exploring options to ease the purchase.
• Location Advantages: Prime location could justify the price.
• Passion and Commitment: Encouragement to trust instincts if the business model is solid.

Source: /r/restaurantowners

Notable Personalities and Stories

The Internet's New Crush: Dylan Bachelet

Dylan Bachelet, a 20-year-old contestant on Great British Baking Show (GBBO) Season 12, captures viewers' hearts.

• Charming and Talented:
  • Impressed fans with his looks and baking prowess.
  • Unique flavor combinations delight judges.
• Memorable Moments:
  • Clumsily skateboarding in intro scenes, adding to his charm.
• Cultural Fusion:
  • Proud of his diverse roots.
  • Showcases heritage-inspired dishes like yuzu-and-mint biscuits.
• Social Media Buzz: Internet filled with affectionate comments, comparing him to fantasy characters.

Source: Eater

Kristen Kish's Culinary Journey

• New Host of Top Chef: Stepping in after Padma Lakshmi's departure.
• Top Chef Winner: Won Season 10 in 2012, becoming the second female champion.
• Career Flourish:
  • Hosting roles across various networks.
  • Emphasizes collaboration in the culinary industry.
• Advocate for Patience and Humility: Advises newcomers to focus on individuality over trends.
• Culinary Storytelling: Shines through in her cookbook and restaurant endeavors.

Source: Total Food Service

Food and Beverage Innovations

Innovative Culinary Offerings

Minnie Bird Restaurant Launches in Illinois

• Led by Sean Thomas, grandson of Wendy's founder Dave Thomas.
• Menu Highlights:
  • Fried chicken sandwiches, tenders.
  • Dirty sodas: Soft drinks combined with creams and syrups.
  • Free ice cream for customers.
• Inspired by Family History: Named after Minnie Sinclair, Dave Thomas's great-great-grandmother.
• Positive Feedback: Dirty sodas have garnered enthusiastic customer responses.

Source: Networld Media Group

Water Filtration Enhances Soda Quality

• Importance of Water Quality:
  • Reducing Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) helps maintain carbonation.
  • Prevents flat sodas by enhancing carbonation.
• Preventing Scale Buildup:
  • Proper filtration reduces mineral deposits.
  • Improves equipment efficiency and lifespan.
• Flavor Enhancement:
  • Removes impurities that distort taste and odor.
  • Ensures beverages taste as intended.

Source: Total Food Service

Harta's New Fall Menu in NYC

• Vibrant New American Cuisine:
  • Charred Eggplant, Crispy Calamari starters.
  • Soups and salads like Crab Bisque, Heirloom Beets.
• Main Courses:
  • Chicken Paillard, Wild Mushroom Risotto.
  • Harta Double Cheeseburger: A decadent offering.
• Special Menus:
  • Two-course lunch and dinner menus at attractive prices.

Source: FSR Magazine

Industry Discussions and Reddit Insights

Restaurant Owners Share Challenges and Successes

Feedback for Restaurant Automation

• Startup Seeks Input: Owner developing automation equipment to enhance performance.
• Community Input:
  • Managers share challenges to align the product with industry needs.
  • Potential for early access or discounts in return.
• Varied Insights:
  • Suggestions include labor cost reduction strategies.
  • Desire for more information about the product.

Source: /r/restaurantowners

Celebrating the First Profitable Month

• Owner's Milestone: First profitable month after 16 months of operation.
• Community Support:
  • Commenters congratulate and share experiences.
  • Emphasis on celebrating small wins.
• Challenges Acknowledged:
  • Some mention delays in achieving profitability.
  • Importance of commitment and overcoming challenges.

Source: /r/restaurantowners

Cash Tip Accountability

• Struggling with Tip Reporting: Restaurant seeks advice on ensuring employees report all cash tips.
• Suggestions:
  • Direct discussions to reinforce honesty.
  • Capping tip pool to 15% of net sales.
  • Using a tip jar by the POS system.
• Challenges:
  • Preventing dishonesty without a singular cash handling system.
  • Importance of building team morale.

Source: /r/restaurantowners

Efficient Menu Printing Solutions

• Cost Reduction Focus: Reducing ink costs for in-house menu printing.
• Community Advice:
  • Advocating for black and white laser printers over inkjet.
  • Using local print shops.
  • Sharing experiences with specific printers like ECO Tank.
• Consensus:
  • Laser printers are more cost-effective.
  • Importance of consistency and quality in menus.

Source: /r/restaurateur

Bar Owners Discussions

Insights and Challenges in Bar Ownership

Realizations of Bar Ownership

• Reflective Question: Owners share moments they knew owning a bar was the right decision.
• Varied Responses:
  • Emotional connection and pride.
  • Ongoing uncertainty and challenges.
• Humorous Takes: Some noted relief after selling their bar.
• Consensus: Emotional investment despite challenges, with profitability being key.

Source: /r/BarOwners

Delivery Issues for New Bar Owners

• Unusual Experience: Coors delivery driver requested to meet at a different location.
• Community Advice:
  • Such practice is not standard.
  • Suggested communicating with sales representatives.
  • Importance of understanding contractual obligations.
• Common Challenge: Delivery issues are frequent in the industry.

Source: /r/BarOwners

Naming a Classy Pub

• Seeking Suggestions: Owner looking for a name for a new bar targeting middle to upper-class customers.
• Community Ideas:
  • Emphasize classiness and local appeal.
  • Names like 'Anytown Pub' to boost search visibility.
  • Incorporating local geographical references.
• Branding Importance: Standing out in searches and appealing to target demographic.

Source: /r/BarOwners

Community and Culture

Bryan, Ohio: The Candy Capital

• Home to Spangler Candy Company:
  • Produces 12 million Dum-Dums daily.
  • Employs 14% of the town.
• Community Impact:
  • Supports a network of 200 local suppliers.
  • Provides good pay and health benefits.
• Nostalgia and Tradition:
  • 50% of adults eat more candy as grown-ups.
  • Classic recipes remain unchanged.
• American Success Story: Focused on traditional offerings and employee welfare.

Source: Salon

Wholesale Bakeries in Chicago

• Top Bakeries:
  • La Fina Bakery: Known for custom cakes.
  • 3D Baking Company: Over 100 varieties of bread.
  • Central Baking Supplies: Offers over 125 products.
• Specializations:
  • Mindful Baking Wholesale Kitchen: Vegan and gluten-free goods.
• Largest Bakery: Nabisco's facility produces over 320 million pounds of food yearly.

Source: BlueCart

Restaurant Customs and Practices

Brunch Customs Across the US

• Differing Expectations:
  • Some guests expect buffet brunches, especially those from the East Coast.
• Community Insights:
  • Opinions vary on whether brunch equals buffet.
  • Many affirm brunch is usually a la carte with cocktails.
• Generational Differences:
  • Older customers may expect buffet traditions.
• Regional Variations:
  • Brunch culture differs based on location and context.

Source: /r/restaurant

Mysterious 'GOF' on Restaurant Tab

• Customer Confusion: Diner unsure about a line labeled 'GOF' on their bill.
• Community Guesses:
  • Possible meanings include 'General Operating Fund'.
  • Experienced industry members unfamiliar with the term.
• No Clear Consensus: The actual meaning remains unclear.

Source: /r/restaurant

Servers in Canada Facing Payment Issues

• Incident: Server's paycheck deducted by $85 after a customer underpaid.
• Community Debate:
  • Legality of paycheck deductions without consent is questioned.
  • Importance of attentiveness during transactions emphasized.
• Consensus: The action reflects heavy consequences of neglect in service roles.

Source: /r/restaurant

Operational Challenges and Solutions

Raw Chicken Complaint Response

A customer was served raw chicken at a fried chicken restaurant.

• Compensation Strategies:
  • Offering a new meal and additional compensation like gift cards.
• Importance of Guest Resolution:
  • Handling the situation well can turn a negative experience into loyalty.
• Variability in Responses:
  • Suggestions range from full refunds to future discounts.
• Customer Focus: Priority on preventing customer loss over cost concerns.

Source: /r/Restaurant_Managers

Exploitive Cafe Management Concerns

• Paying to Work: Employee pays to work in a cafe, viewed as a scam.
• Unbalanced Agreement:
  • No incentive for the operator running day-to-day operations.
• Community Advice:
  • Need for renegotiation or starting their own business.
  • Possible legal consultation due to unclear profit-sharing.
• Consensus:
  • Encouraged to seek better working conditions or start anew.

Source: /r/restaurant

Boss Scheduling Issues

• Employee Misled: Promised full-time hours, but hours reduced.
• Community Insights:
  • Promises in the industry can be unreliable.
  • Performance evaluations may impact scheduling.
• Advice:
  • Consider looking for other opportunities.
  • Keep documentation of job postings.

Source: /r/restaurant

Miscellaneous Industry Updates

Amazon Grocery Launches Small Format Store in Chicago

• New Concept: Amazon Grocery store spans 3,800 square feet.
• Location: Downtown Chicago, adjacent to a Whole Foods Market.
• Offerings:
  • Around 3,500 products, including grab-and-go meals.
  • Traditional national brands, differing from Whole Foods' focus on natural products.
• Shopping Convenience: Aims to allow customers access to diverse products without multiple trips.

Source: Restaurant Business

ABC's Annual Supplier Awards

• Celebrating Excellence:
  • Cal-Mil received the Tom Wilhelm Distinguished Supplier of the Year Award.
  • Jim Monnat from G.E.T. Enterprises recognized as Supplier Sales Executive of the Year.
• Product Category Awards:
  • Standout companies include Vollrath, Waring, and Amerikooler.
  • American Metalcraft won Outstanding Sales Team of the Year.

Source: Foodservice Equipment & Supplies

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