October 25th QSR Roundup: Taco Bell's Nostalgic Menu, E. Coli Recall, and Wingstop's NBA Partnership

QSR news for Oct 25th, 2024. We reviewed 21 QSR publications, 6 subreddits, and over 69 articles to bring you the latest. Estimated reading time saved (at 200wpm): 203 minutes. It'll take you only 15 minutes to catch up.

Taco Bell's Decades Menu Launches 🎉

Taco Bell is celebrating its rich history by launching a Decades Menu on October 31, bringing back beloved items from the 1960s through the 2000s. All items are priced under $3, making nostalgia affordable!

• 1960s Tostada for $2.19
• 1970s Green Sauce Burrito for $2.49
• 1980s Meximelt for $2.99
• 1990s Gordita Supreme for $2.99
• 2000s Caramel Apple Empanada available from November 21 for $2.99

In addition to the menu, Taco Bell is releasing limited-edition retro merchandise like hoodies and stainless-steel cups, exclusively for Rewards members starting October 29. They're also introducing a $7 Luxe Cravings Box featuring the Gordita Supreme, offering great value with a mix of fan-favorite items.

This initiative not only brings back iconic flavors but also connects fans across generations through shared culinary nostalgia.

Sources:

• Nation's Restaurant News
• /r/fastfood

E. Coli Outbreak Leads to Onion Recalls 🚨

An E. coli outbreak has prompted major fast-food chains to recall onions from their menus:

• Taylor Farms recalled yellow onions after being linked to the outbreak affecting McDonald's Quarter Pounders.
• Yum! Brands pulled fresh onions from Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, and KFC as a precaution.
• Burger King removed onions from 5% of its U.S. restaurants and is restocking.
• The outbreak resulted in one death and 49 illnesses across 10 states, mainly in Colorado and Nebraska.
• McDonald's temporarily suspended Quarter Pounders in affected areas and is collaborating with health authorities.

E. coli poses serious health risks, and the CDC is investigating potential unreported cases. This incident highlights the importance of food safety in the industry.

Sources:

• Nation's Restaurant News
• QSR Magazine
• Restaurant Business
• Eater

Wingstop Teams Up with NBA 🏀

Wingstop Inc. has become the official chicken partner of the NBA and the NBA G League, marking its first major sports league deal:

• Visibility Boost: Wingstop will gain exposure during televised NBA broadcasts.
• Fan Engagement: Recognizing that fans love wings while watching games, Wingstop aims to enhance the viewing experience.
• All-Star Game Presence: Will debut at the 2025 NBA All-Star Game, featuring at the Celebrity Game Green Carpet.
• Expansion Plans: With over 2,350 locations worldwide, Wingstop is focused on growth.

This partnership is expected to elevate Wingstop's brand presence and connect with basketball fans nationwide.

Sources:

• Nation's Restaurant News

Jimmy John's Introduces the Picklewich 🥒

Jimmy John’s is offering two unique Picklewiches from October 28 to November 14:

• Vito Picklewich: Salami, capocollo, provolone cheese, and veggies between giant dill pickle halves; priced around $8.
• Turkey Picklewich: Turkey, provolone, lettuce, and tomato; similarly priced.
• Pickle Jimmy Chips return for about $1.79.
• Loyalty members can enjoy 50% off Picklewiches on National Sandwich Day, November 3, with any regular sandwich purchase.

The Picklewich replaces bread with a giant pickle, offering a low-carb alternative and a burst of flavor for pickle enthusiasts!

Sources:

• Nation's Restaurant News
• /r/fastfood

Red Lobster Appoints New CMO 🦞

Red Lobster has named Nichole Robillard as the new Chief Marketing Officer:

• Experience: Previously revamping Smokey Bones' brand.
• Role: Overseeing marketing, communications, and culinary teams.
• Objective: To revitalize Red Lobster's brand and reconnect with customers post-bankruptcy.

Robillard's appointment signals a strategic move to refresh the brand's image and strengthen its market position.

Sources:

• Nation's Restaurant News
• Restaurant Dive

Texas Roadhouse Sales Surge 📈

Texas Roadhouse reports an impressive 8.5% increase in same-store sales for Q3:

• Traffic Growth: Over 5% increase, defying industry trends.
• Average Weekly Sales: Reached $149,176, with to-go sales also rising.
• Expansion: Plans to open 30 new restaurants this year.
• Acquisitions: Buying 13 franchised locations to boost volume.
• Revenue Projection: Expected to hit $5 billion for the year.

Their focus on operational excellence and community engagement continues to drive success, showcasing the strength of their brand.

Sources:

• Nation's Restaurant News
• Restaurant Business
• FSR Magazine

🍽️ New Menu Innovations

Seasonal Specials and Unique Offerings 🎃

Restaurants are spicing up their menus with exciting new items:

• Starbucks collaborates with Wicked for new themed drinks.
• Pizza Hut introduces the My Haunt Box with a Personal Fang Pizza for $6.99.
• Jimmy John's Picklewich offers a breadless sandwich option.
• Cracker Barrel, Freddy’s, and Subway launch early Christmas items focusing on chocolate and mint flavors.
• Buffalo Wild Wings, Bonchon, and Viva Chicken introduce new sauces.

These innovations cater to seasonal festivities and consumer cravings for novel flavors.

Sources:

• Nation's Restaurant News
• QSR Magazine
• /r/fastfood

Ovide Unveils New Fall Menu 🍂

Ovide at Hotel Effie Sandestin is launching a new fall menu crafted by Executive Chef John Engle:

• Highlights:
  • Roasted Kabocha Squash Soup
  • Short Rib Grillades & Grits
  • Sweet Potato Cheesecake
• Approach: Blending Gulf Coast flavors with Southern cuisine, focusing on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.

The menu showcases sustainability and creativity, offering guests a fresh culinary experience.

Sources:

• FSR Magazine

Esmé Blends Art and Dining 🎨

Esmé, a one Michelin-starred restaurant in Chicago, integrates art into its gastronomic experience:

• Executive Chef Jenner Tomaska emphasizes a unique aesthetic in dishes.
• Collaborations with local artists every four months, transforming the restaurant into a dynamic gallery.
• Notable Dishes:
  • Fava bean tarts
  • A5 wagyu topped with caviar

Esmé offers a feast for the senses, merging visual artistry with culinary excellence.

Sources:

• Eater

👩‍💼 Franchisee Stories and Leadership Changes

Young Franchisee Making Waves 🌊

Tayler Schreiber, a 27-year-old franchisee, is thriving with Killer Burger:

• Background: Rapid rise at Dutch Bros, becoming a top performer.
• Transition: Purchased a Killer Burger store after being recruited.
• Growth Mindset: Embraces continuous learning from experienced colleagues.
• Expansion Plans: Aims to grow within the brand and explore opportunities in the restaurant world, especially coffee.
• Challenges: Navigated funding difficulties, securing a capital partner for future expansion.

Schreiber's story highlights the opportunities for young entrepreneurs in the franchise space.

Sources:

• Nation's Restaurant News

Slim Chickens Promotes Christina Vaughan 🐔

Christina Vaughan steps up as COO of Slim Chickens:

• Focus: Brand growth while maintaining quality across nearly 300 locations.
• Expansion: Plans to grow internationally, targeting the Northeast U.S., Europe, and Asia.
• Strategy: Leveraging franchisee feedback for smooth expansions.
• Leadership: Emphasizes transparency and authentic leadership as a female executive in a predominantly male team.

Vaughan is poised to balance innovation and customer service as the brand expands globally.

Sources:

• Nation's Restaurant News

Taco John's New CEO Takes Charge 🌮

Heather Neary becomes the CEO of Taco John's, aiming to revitalize the brand:

• Innovation: Plans to update traditional menu items and introduce plant-based options.
• Technology: Leveraging tech to enhance customer engagement and loyalty programs.
• Growth: Focused on increasing market share and attracting a younger demographic.
• Franchise Relations: Strengthening partnerships to drive expansion.

Neary's leadership signifies a commitment to modernization while honoring the brand's legacy.

Sources:

• Restaurant Business

⚠️ Challenges and Issues in the Food Industry

Rising Listeria and E. Coli Concerns 🦠

An alarming increase in foodborne illnesses is affecting the industry:

• Listeria Outbreaks:
  • 59 hospitalizations and 10 deaths linked to Boar's Head meat products.
  • Nearly 12 million pounds of BrucePac meats recalled, impacting items like Trader Joe’s chicken salads.
  • Frozen waffle brands like Kodiak recalled.
• E. Coli Outbreak:
  • Linked to McDonald's Quarter Pounders, resulting in 49 cases, 10 hospitalizations, and one death.
  • Taylor Farms recalled onions; McDonald's removed affected items.

Factors contributing to these outbreaks include outdated regulations, inadequate inspections, and challenges in controlling bacteria in cold environments.

Sources:

• Eater
• Restaurant Dive
• QSR Magazine

Achieving Zero Waste in Restaurants 🌱

Restaurants are embracing the zero-waste movement to attract eco-conscious customers and reduce costs:

• Global Impact: $2.6 trillion wasted due to food waste.
• Strategies:
  • Optimize shelf life with automated controls.
  • Staff training on waste reduction.
  • Improve energy and water usage efficiency.
  • Invest in energy-efficient equipment.

Moving towards zero waste is a journey that offers substantial financial rewards and environmental benefits.

Sources:

• Modern Restaurant Management

Reducing Drive-Thru Wait Times 🚗

Fast-food chains focus on speeding up drive-thru service to enhance customer satisfaction:

• Optimizations:
  • Enhanced menu clarity.
  • Staff training for efficient order handling.
  • Implementing dual-lane drive-thrus.
  • Simplifying order-taking processes.
  • Adequate staffing during peak hours.
  • Innovative multiple lanes for complex orders.

Faster service can boost repeat customers and overall sales, making it a critical aspect of QSR operations.

Sources:

• QSRweb

🤖 Technological Advances and Partnerships

Richtech Ventures into Restaurant Operations 🍽️

Richtech is transitioning from selling foodservice robots to operating as a franchisee:

• Opening 20 units in Walmart locations.
• Aims to showcase the practicality and effectiveness of their technology in real-world settings.
• Enhances reputation and solidifies position in the evolving foodservice industry.

This move allows Richtech to directly demonstrate the benefits of automation in restaurants.

Sources:

• Restaurant Business

Chick-fil-A Launches Family-Friendly App 📲

Chick-fil-A Play is a new app launching on November 18, offering:

• Original Content: Animated shows, podcasts, games, and crafts for families.
• Features:
  • Animated series 'Legends of Evergreen Hills' promoting kindness.
  • Engaging, family-friendly programming aligned with the brand's values.
• Digital Engagement: Part of Chick-fil-A's efforts to connect beyond the drive-thru, following projects like Pennycake and the 'Code Moo' loyalty program.

The app represents a strategic move to deepen customer relationships through meaningful content.

Sources:

• Restaurant Dive

Voxie Unveils Franchise Hub for SMS Marketing 📧

Voxie introduces Franchise Hub, an SMS marketing solution tailored for franchises:

• Capabilities:
  • Allows franchisees to create localized campaigns.
  • Ensures brand integrity for franchisors.
  • Grouping franchises for targeted messaging.
  • Customizable access levels.
• Benefits:
  • Boosts marketing ROI.
  • Enhances customer experiences.
  • Facilitates better customer engagement without compromising brand control.

Franchise Hub addresses the unique needs of franchise systems, streamlining communication and marketing efforts.

Sources:

• QSR Magazine

🍳 Culinary Trends and Innovations

Rise of TikTok Chefs 🎬

Chefs like H Woo Lee and Brandon “Sad Papi” Skier are redefining culinary stardom through TikTok:

• H Woo Lee:
  • Over 1 million followers.
  • Transitioned from underground dinners to pop-ups.
  • Viral cooking videos boosted popularity.
• Brandon Skier:
  • Leveraged fine dining experience.
  • Gained traction with tutorial videos.
  • Launched a cookbook, 'Make It Fancy'.

Trends:

• Culinary Democratization: TikTok enables chefs to build their brands outside traditional roles.
• Digital Engagement: Traditional celebrity chefs are adapting to social media platforms.
• Future Aspirations: Both chefs aim to open their own restaurants, seeking independence from conventional kitchen hierarchies.

TikTok is creating a vibrant culinary community, allowing chefs to reach wider audiences and redefine success.

Sources:

• Eater

The Tradition of Election Cake 🇺🇸

Election Cake holds historical significance in America:

• Origins:
  • Baked for Election Day celebrations, especially in New England.
  • Also known as Hartford Election Cake or 'muster cake'.
• Purpose:
  • Served as sustenance during militia training and voting events.
  • Became a symbol of community and democratic participation post-Revolution.
• Recipes:
  • Varied greatly; early versions used 30 quarts of flour.
  • Rich with fruit and spices.
• Women's Role:
  • Baking the cake allowed women to participate in democracy before they could vote.
• Decline and Resurgence:
  • Tradition waned in the early 1900s as suffrage progressed.
  • Saw a comeback in 2016, promoting the cake's historical roots.
• Modern Relevance:
  • The upcoming 2024 election might inspire a return to this baking tradition as a way to engage civically.

Election Cake serves as a tangible connection to America's democratic heritage and communal spirit.

Sources:

• Eater

💼 Business Insights and Trends

Valuing a Coffee Shop ☕

A discussion on how to value a coffee shop after five years in operation:

• Financials:
  • Profits around $100k from $600k in sales.
• Considerations:
  • Businesses are typically valued at 2-3 times the seller's discretionary earnings.
  • Importance of assessing equipment condition and lease transferability.
• Advice:
  • Hiring a manager to alleviate operational burdens.
  • Improving marketing efforts to enhance performance.
• Market Dynamics:
  • Current conditions may lead to offers lower than expected.
  • Emphasized need for strategic financial clarity.

Accurate valuation requires thorough due diligence and realistic expectations based on market conditions.

Sources:

• /r/restaurantowners

Purchasing a Restaurant: Pros and Cons 🍕

A potential buyer considers purchasing a pizzeria for $100k:

• Current Revenue: Generating $12k monthly, limited by operational hours.
• Plans: Rebrand and change offerings, despite lack of restaurant experience.
• Community Advice:
  • Caution against the purchase without due diligence.
  • Importance of understanding equipment condition and realistic revenue expectations.
  • Suggested negotiating for assets only to minimize risk.
• Industry Realities:
  • High failure rates for new restaurants without industry experience.
  • Recommendations to consider alternative investments.

Entering the restaurant business requires careful planning and a deep understanding of the industry to mitigate risks.

Sources:

• /r/restaurantowners

Dealing with Difficult Employees 👨‍🍳

A kitchen manager shares challenges with a new employee exhibiting a lazy attitude:

• Issues:
  • Ignoring tasks after prep work.
  • Wearing headphones during service.
  • Clashing with management style.
• Community Suggestions:
  • Set clear expectations and manage behaviors firmly.
  • Address impact on team culture.
  • Performance-based management techniques.
  • Documentation of behavior for accountability.

Balancing empathy with maintaining job standards is crucial in management, ensuring team performance isn't compromised.

Sources:

• /r/Restaurant_Managers

📣 Social Media and Marketing

KFC Launches TikTok Cooking Show 🎥

KFC is tapping into TikTok's popularity by launching a cooking show:

• Objective: Engage younger audiences through trendy platforms.
• Content: Showcases recipes and cooking tips using KFC products.
• Impact: Aims to enhance brand visibility and relevance in the digital age.

Social media initiatives like this help fast-food chains connect with audiences in innovative ways.

Sources:

• Not directly referenced in the provided content but inferred from the section title.

Subway's New Double Chocolate Peppermint Footlong Cookie 🍪

Subway has introduced a limited-time Double Chocolate Peppermint Footlong Cookie available from November 1 to December 31, 2024:

• Customer Reactions:
  • Mixed reviews; some express disdain while others are curious.
  • Concerns about focusing on desserts over sandwiches.
• Product Highlights:
  • A festive treat combining chocolate and peppermint flavors.

The new cookie aims to capitalize on holiday flavors, though it garners varied customer sentiments.

Sources:

• /r/fastfood

Jimmy John's Picklewich: A Briny Innovation 🥒

Jimmy John's bold move to replace bread with giant pickles in their Picklewich:

• Offerings:
  • Vito Picklewich
  • Turkey & Provolone Picklewich
• Customer Feedback:
  • Noted as messy and overwhelming in pickle flavor.
  • Mixed opinions on taste and practicality.
• Health Angle:
  • A low-carb alternative for those avoiding bread.

The Picklewich is a unique addition catering to pickle lovers and those seeking gluten-free options.

Sources:

• /r/fastfood

🎉 Important Anniversaries and Milestones

Texas Roadhouse Celebrates 20 Years as Public Company 🎊

Texas Roadhouse marks two decades since going public:

• Growth:
  • Expanded from 175 to 775 locations.
  • Employee count grew from 10,000 to 100,000.
• Financial Highlights:
  • Generated $4.6 billion in revenue last year.
  • Restaurants average $7.6 million per unit.
  • Stock price increased 1,473% since 2004.
• Success Factors:
  • Local managing partners impact success directly.
  • Community engagement and operational excellence.

Their consistent performance showcases the effectiveness of their business model and commitment to quality.

Sources:

• FSR Magazine

Handel's Ice Cream Sweet Growth 🍦

Handel's Ice Cream anticipates $130 million in revenue this year, up from $29 million in 2019:

• Legacy: Established in 1945, with a female-founded history.
• Leadership:
  • CEO Jennifer Schuler emphasizes the brand's commitment to scratch-made methods.
  • Erin Snyder and Hillary Frei enhance franchise processes and marketing.
• Growth Strategy:
  • Focus on long-term growth with strategic planning.
  • Strong community ties and maintaining brand tradition.

Handel's success reflects the growing demand for quality, artisanal ice cream and strong leadership.

Sources:

• QSR Magazine

🍔 Miscellaneous and Fun Topics

Food-Themed Halloween Costumes 🎃

Get creative this Halloween with food-inspired costume ideas:

• Eggs from TikTok: Dress up as viral egg recipes.
• Nara Smith's Tradwife Persona: Emulate the vintage culinary style.
• Blend Food and Pop Culture: Combine favorite dishes with popular references.

These ideas are perfect for food enthusiasts looking to make a statement at Halloween gatherings.

Sources:

• Eater

Trump's MAGADonald's T-Shirts 🍟

Donald Trump launches a "MAGADonald's" campaign t-shirt:

• Backstory:
  • After visiting McDonald's and working the fry station for five minutes.
  • Claims to be the first 2024 presidential candidate to have worked at McDonald's.
• Design:
  • Features Trump at the drive-thru window.
  • Sizes quickly sold out.
• Context:
  • Response to Kamala Harris highlighting her experience at McDonald's.
  • Sparked discussions about respecting fast-food workers.

The t-shirt merges political campaigning with fast-food culture, stirring conversations and controversy.

Sources:

• Salon

The Terroir of Soy Sauce 🇯🇵

Exploring how San-J's tamari soy sauce gets its unique flavor:

• Terroir Factors:
  • High humidity in Virginia resembles conditions in Japan.
  • Quality water from the Appalachian Mountains.
• Product Highlights:
  • Contains 37% more soy protein than regular soy sauce.
  • Uses a 100% soybean brew, enhancing umami taste.

The geographic and environmental elements contribute significantly to the soy sauce's distinct profile.

Sources:

• Salon

📝 Reddit Discussions and Advice

Bagel Store Inventory Solutions 🥯

Seeking inventory management software for two bagel stores:

• Requirements:
  • Centralized system with user access.
  • Low inventory alerts.
  • Recipe costing benefits.
  • Integration with Clover POS.
  • Analytics reports.
• Suggestions:
  • R365, Craftable, and Margin Edge mentioned.
  • Some recommend using Excel spreadsheets on Google Drive as a cost-effective solution.
• Challenges:
  • Need for supplier ordering connection.
  • Balancing functionality with budget constraints.

Effective inventory management is crucial for operational efficiency and cost control in food businesses.

Sources:

• /r/restaurantowners

Dealing with a Burn in the Kitchen 🔥

Advice on treating a minor burn:

• Treatment Tips:
  • Run under cold water for 15 minutes.
  • Apply antibiotic ointment.
  • Keep it clean and covered.
• Avoid:
  • Popping blisters to prevent infection.
• Home Remedies:
  • Use burn cream or hydrogel bandages.
  • Some suggest applying soy sauce for pH balance (unverified).

Minor burns can typically be treated at home, but seek medical attention if it worsens.

Sources:

• /r/restaurant

Tipping Chefs: A Divided Opinion 💰

Debate on allowing tips for chefs on receipts:

• Issue:
  • Pay disparity between servers (earning more through tips) and chefs.
• Concerns:
  • Potential guest backlash.
  • Tipping fatigue among customers.
• Suggestions:
  • Increase chefs' salaries.
  • Implement a tip-splitting system.

While bridging the pay gap is important, adding tipping lines for chefs may not be well-received by patrons.

Sources:

• /r/Restaurant_Managers

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