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.
- Hiring Minors:
- 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
Stay tuned for more concise news updates delivered right to your fingertips, saving you valuable time. As industry professionals and restaurant operators, your time is precious—spent on running your businesses, innovating menus, and enhancing customer experiences. Let us keep you informed with quick, comprehensive summaries so you can focus on what you do best. Subscribe now and join us again for the latest insights in the restaurant industry!