October 7th QSR Roundup: Industry Insights, Leadership Changes, Menu Innovations, and Market Trends

Now shorter! QSR news for Oct 7th, 2024. We reviewed 20 QSR publications, 6 subreddits, and over 33 articles to bring you the latest. Estimated reading time saved (at 200wpm): 120 minutes. It'll take you about 12 minutes to catch up.

Taco John's Welcomes New CMO

Taco John's has appointed Kevin Flaherty as their new Chief Marketing Officer. Flaherty brings over 20 years of experience, previously serving as Senior VP of Digital Marketing at MOD Pizza.

• Strategic Vision: Flaherty aims to enhance Taco John's digitization and personalized marketing.
• Leadership Endorsement: CEO Heather Neary highlights this pivotal moment for the brand, emphasizing Flaherty's expertise in driving brand culture and guest loyalty.
• Growth Focus: With nearly 350 locations in 22 states, Taco John's is poised for innovation and expansion.

Source: Nation's Restaurant News, QSR Magazine, QSR Web

Fast Food Updates and Innovations

McDonald's is introducing the Chicken Big Mac for a limited time, targeting younger demographics seeking new flavors. Subway unveils plans to open 10,000 new international locations, entering markets like Paraguay and Mongolia, aiming to reverse previous closures.

The fast-casual and casual chains are intensifying the value wars:

• Price Cuts: Chains are reducing prices to drive traffic.
• New Concepts: Launch of Noble Chicken, a fast-casual concept debuting this winter.
• Industry Insights: Dan Sweatt comments on the heating competition and innovation in the sector.

Harold's Chicken in Nevada files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, joining other major chains like Red Lobster and BurgerFi facing financial challenges.

Sources: Nation's Restaurant News, QSR Magazine

Dave's Hot Chicken's Rapid Growth

• Humble Beginnings: Started as a pop-up in East Hollywood.
• Expansion: Grew to over 200 locations nationwide.
• Philosophy: "Good food sells" is their core belief.
• Financials:
  • New locations cost around $600,000.
  • Franchisees enjoy a 19% profit margin.
  • Two-year payback period encourages reinvestment.
• Customer Focus:
  • Direct responses to reviews.
  • Ensuring consistent quality through video mystery shops.

Looking Forward: Dave's aims to maintain high standards in food quality and customer service to sustain growth.

Source: QSR Magazine

Jersey Mike's Debuts at LaGuardia

Jersey Mike's Subs has opened its eighth airport location at LaGuardia's Terminal C.

• Operated By: Manan Shah, expanding the brand's presence in airports like Newark and Las Vegas.
• Signature Offerings:
  • Premium Meats: Freshly sliced for each order.
  • In-Store Baked Bread: Ensuring quality and freshness.
  • Mike's Way® Subs: Featuring fresh vegetables and proprietary dressings.
• Growth Milestone: Over 4,000 locations nationwide, adhering to the original 1956 recipe.
• Community Commitment: Continues to give back locally, strengthening community ties.

Source: QSR Magazine

Krispy Kreme's Ghostbusters Treats Delight Fans

Krispy Kreme launches a special Halloween collection inspired by Ghostbusters:

• Four Themed Doughnuts:
  • Ghostbusters Cookies N' Creme: Topped with OREO pieces and the No Ghost logo.
  • Slimer Doughnut: Lemon-flavored and adorned with Slimer candy.
  • Ecto-Sprinkled Doughnut: Vibrant orange icing with neon sprinkles.
  • Stay Puft Marshmallow Man Pull-Apart: Doughnut dots with marshmallow buttercreme.
• New Drink: Slimer's Slime-ade, a green-colored beverage.
• Halloween Offer: Free Original Glazed doughnut for guests in costume.
• Retail Packs: 6-count doughnut packs available at select grocery stores.

Source: QSR Magazine, Food & Beverage

Empowering Women Entrepreneurs in Franchising

Mandy Mack and Allison Phillips are breaking barriers as women franchisees of Orange Leaf:

• Mandy Mack:
  • Owns a successful shop in Iowa.
  • Surpasses sales expectations.
  • Mentors young female employees.
  • Unconventional background adds unique perspectives.
• Allison Phillips:
  • Transitioned from management to ownership in Evansville.
  • Utilizes marketing skills for customer engagement.
• Challenges Faced:
  • Funding obstacles due to gender biases.
  • Navigating a male-dominated industry.
• Impactful Leadership:
  • Emphasize the importance of strong support networks.
  • Inspire a new generation of women entrepreneurs.
  • Focus on hard work, leadership, and community connection.

Source: QSR Magazine

Local Store Marketing Success Strategies

Local store marketing is essential for franchise restaurants to connect with communities and boost sales.

FAT Brands has developed a division dedicated to local marketing across its 18 different restaurant concepts.

Key strategies include:

1. Identifying Vision and Framework: Tailoring marketing efforts to resonate with community groups.
2. Securing Buy-In: Encouraging franchisor teams to act as brand ambassadors.
3. Utilizing Easy-to-Use Platforms: Providing tools for effective communication, like quarterly action plans and customizable materials.
4. Empowering Brand Ambassadors: Engaging directly with the community to enhance brand visibility.

Elaine Patel leads these initiatives, ensuring each brand creates a human connection within its community while maintaining individual identities.

Source: QSR Magazine

Thompson Hospitality's Restaurant Division Flourishes

Thompson Hospitality, the largest privately held Black-owned foodservice group in the U.S., has launched Thompson Restaurants.

• Leadership: Led by COO Alex Berentzen.
• Growth Milestones:
  • Opened 18 restaurants recently.
  • Aiming for $180 million in revenue this year.
  • Potential to exceed $200 million next year.
• Innovations:
  • Utilizes business intelligence tools.
  • Achieved a 68% blended annual turnover rate, significantly lower than industry averages.
• Operational Excellence:
  • Emphasizes frontline engagement.
  • Prioritizes cleanliness and food quality.
  • Focuses on exceptional customer experience.

Source: FSR Magazine

Buffalo Wild Wings Unveils New Deal

Buffalo Wild Wings introduces the Pick 6 for $19.99 deal starting October 9.

• Customization: Choose two entrees, two sides, and two drinks.
• Menu Options:
  • Entrees: Wings, tenders, burgers.
  • Sides: Fries, tater tots, and more.
• Value Proposition: Offers quality and variety at an attractive price.
• Marketing Insight: CMO Tristan Meline emphasizes providing fans with flexibility and great value.

Source: FSR Magazine

Drive-Thru Satisfaction Rankings Revealed

Recent studies highlight customer satisfaction at drive-thrus:

• Chick-fil-A leads with a 99% satisfaction rate from 165 secret shopper visits.
• Taco Bell excels in speed, with overall drive-thru times improving to 5.5 minutes.
• Other top performers:
  • Raising Cane’s: 98% satisfaction.
  • McDonald’s: 97% satisfaction.
• Burger King significantly improved from 85% to 93% satisfaction.
• Service Times:
  • Average service time decreased by 17 seconds to 245 seconds.
  • Chick-fil-A manages just 139 seconds per car in line.
• Traffic Insights: Reduced restaurant traffic may contribute to faster times due to fewer cars in drive-thrus.

Source: Restaurant Dive

The Future of Restaurants in 2025

The restaurant industry is rapidly evolving due to COVID-19 influences:

• Technology Adoption: Accelerated implementation of new technologies.
• Menu Evolution: Increase in plant-based items, with 50% of restaurants offering these options.
• Delivery Services: Third-party delivery services thrive, affecting restaurant designs with dedicated pick-up zones.
• Food Waste Management:
  • Innovations like closed-loop composting.
  • AI-driven solutions improving efficiency and reducing labor costs.
• Membership Programs:
  • Enhancing customer loyalty through exclusive offers.
  • Fine-dining establishments may introduce high-end memberships.
• Hospitality Transformation: The sector is preparing for significant changes, reshaping the dining experience.

Source: Modern Restaurant Management

The Mart Group's Potato Processing Expansion

The Mart Group opens a $65 million facility in Rupert, Idaho:

• Production Capacity: Processes 10,000 lbs of frozen baked potatoes per hour.
• Product Launch:
  • Branded as OH!Tatoes.
  • Fully baked, flash-frozen Russet potatoes.
  • Targeting U.S. and international markets.
• Retail Presence:
  • Launching in major retailers like Publix and Harris Teeter.
  • Priced around $8 per bag.
• Global Strategy:
  • Successful tests in Japan.
  • Aiming to reduce waste with resealable packaging.
  • Planning to expand to Canada and Mexico.
• Innovation:
  • Exploring new flavors with mixing capabilities.
  • Leveraging longstanding agribusiness reputation in Southern Idaho.

Source: Food Business News

Lesaffre Acquires Majority Stake in Biorigin

Lesaffre acquires a 70% majority stake in Biorigin, enhancing its supply of yeast derivatives for savory ingredients.

• Biorigin's Role: Will maintain a 30% stake and continue operations in Sáo Paulo, Brazil.
• Strategic Advantage:
  • Access to abundant sugar and renewable energy resources.
  • Boosts production capacity for human food and animal nutrition ingredients.
• Market Impact: Addresses rising demand for natural savory ingredients.
• Leadership Statement: CEO Brice-Audren Riché emphasizes the significance of this acquisition for Lesaffre’s growth.

Source: Food Business News

Custom Fat Solutions Transform Baking

Custom fat solutions are revolutionizing the baking industry:

• Enhanced Quality: Provide precise control over texture and flavor.
• Shelf Life Extension: Help baked goods stay fresh longer.
• Flavor Refinement:
  • Options like coconut oil for a tropical twist.
  • Rich buttery notes to enhance taste.
• Application Benefits:
  • Ideal for pastries requiring ideal flakiness.
  • Cakes achieve tender crumbs.
• Industry Evolution: Bakers can now tailor products to meet specific customer preferences, ensuring competitiveness.

Source: Food Business News

Smoothie Pops Launch

Pitaya Foods introduces USDA organic certified smoothie pops:

• Flavors:
  • Acai & Blueberry
  • Dragon Fruit & Mango
  • Passion Fruit & Peach
• Product Features:
  • Only five ingredients per pop.
  • Contains half a serving of fruit.
  • No added sugar.
• Target Audience:
  • Designed for both kids and adults.
  • Appeals to health-conscious consumers.
• Convenience:
  • Vibrant flavors in eco-friendly paper tubes.
  • Merges nutrition with fun.
• Availability:
  • Sold online and at Walmart stores.

Source: Food Business News

Daring's New Vegetarian Entrées Delight Palates

Daring Plant Chicken launches frozen vegetarian entrées:

• Products Introduced:
  • Buffalo Macaroni and Cheese
  • Queso Burrito Bowls
• Nutrition Profile:
  • Approximately 16 grams of protein per bowl.
• Ingredients:
  • Made with wholesome, plant-based components.
  • Feature Daring’s spicy Buffalo wings.
• Market Aim:
  • Making plant-based diets more accessible.
  • Providing delicious, convenient meal options.

Source: Food Business News

Chef Jeremy Ford's Culinary Journey

Chef Jeremy Ford rose to fame after winning Top Chef: California in 2015.

• Career Milestones:
  • Defeated notable chefs like Amar Santana and Isaac Toups.
  • Manages two restaurants, including the Michelin-starred Stubborn Seed.
  • Launched Ford Farms to supply fresh produce to his establishments.
• Culinary Philosophy:
  • Focuses on quality and sustainability.
  • His time on Top Chef shaped his approach to cooking.
• Personal Balance:
  • Balances roles as a chef and father.
  • Committed to excellence both professionally and personally.

Source: Salon

Ghostbusters Doughnut Collection by Krispy Kreme

Krispy Kreme celebrates the 40th anniversary of Ghostbusters with limited-time doughnuts:

• Doughnut Varieties:
  • Ghostbusters Cookies N' Creme Doughnut: Topped with OREO pieces and No Ghost logo candy.
  • Slimer Doughnut: Lemon filling with Slimer candy topper.
  • Ecto-Sprinkled Doughnut: Orange icing with neon sprinkles.
  • Stay Puft Marshmallow Man Pull-Apart: Powdered doughnut dots with marshmallow buttercreme.
• Special Beverage: Slimer's Slime-ade, a themed green drink.
• Halloween Promotion:
  • Guests in costume receive a free Original Glazed doughnut.
  • Available across over 15,500 locations globally.
• Retail Availability:
  • 6-count doughnut packs at select grocery stores.

Source: Food & Beverage

Epic October Prime Day Deals on Kitchen Essentials

Amazon's Prime Big Deal Days offer massive discounts on kitchen products:

• Savings Up to 90%: Prices slashed on top brands.
• Featured Brands:
  • Le Creuset
  • KitchenAid
  • Vitamix
• Must-Have Deals:
  • 35 essential kitchen products highlighted.
  • Prices starting as low as $6.
• Early Access: Deals available now before the official sale begins.
• Consumer Benefit: Opportunity to upgrade kitchen essentials at a fraction of the cost.

Source: Food & Wine

Owala's Vibrant New Tumblers Exclusive at Target

Owala launches innovative tumblers with clever lid designs at Target:

• Key Features:
  • Hidden straws to keep them clean.
  • Spring-loaded button and locking handle.
• Collections:
  • Dutch Bros and Friends collaboration.
  • FreeSip Water Bottle in Autumn Sunset and Ode to October.
• Pricing:
  • Starting at $13.
  • 24-ounce bottles at $28.
  • 32-ounce bottles at $33.
• Design Highlights:
  • Seasonal colors perfect for fall.
  • Eco-friendly with easy cleaning features.
• User Convenience:
  • Keeps drinks cold for up to 24 hours.
  • Ideal for on-the-go lifestyles.

Source: Food & Wine

Managing Older Staff Challenges in Restaurants

A 20-year-old manager faces challenges managing older staff in a family-owned restaurant:

• Issues Encountered:
  • Staff disrespect due to the manager's age.
  • Employees belittle and undermine authority.
  • Unprofessional behavior, including verbal insults.
• Community Advice:
  • Parental Support: Involve parents to reinforce managerial authority.
  • Establish Boundaries: Set clear expectations for behavior.
  • Show Leadership:
    • Lead by example.
    • Perform tasks alongside staff to earn respect.
  • Address Disrespect:
    • Don't hesitate to discipline or fire problematic employees.
    • Create a culture of respect and professionalism.
• Consensus:
  • Respect is earned through actions.
  • Effective communication and setting standards are crucial.
  • Building a cohesive team requires mutual respect regardless of age.

Source: /r/restaurantowners

Credit Card Processing Troubles in Multiple Restaurants

A manager overseeing 17 restaurants shares issues with credit card processing:

• Primary Concern: Financial losses in a cashless environment due to processing failures.
• Community Suggestions:
  • Explore alternative credit card processors.
  • Implement failover internet solutions to prevent downtime.
  • Consider maintaining an ATM on-site as a backup.
• Industry Challenge:
  • Growing reliance on electronic transactions heightens the impact of technological issues.
• Operational Insight:
  • Managing multiple establishments requires robust systems.
  • Ensuring uninterrupted service is vital for customer satisfaction.

Source: /r/restaurantowners

Tackling Workplace Rumors and Professional Boundaries

A General Manager deals with false rumors of affairs with employees:

• Situation Details:
  • Accusations involving a young woman with a troubled past.
  • Concerns over potential risks to reputation and career.
• Advice from Community:
  • Documentation: Keep detailed records of interactions.
  • Inform HR: Report the situation to human resources promptly.
  • Avoid Isolation: Ensure not to be alone with the employee in question.
• Shared Experiences:
  • Others recount similar situations, emphasizing proactivity.
• Preventative Measures:
  • Address rumors directly with management.
  • Maintain professional boundaries at all times.

Source: /r/Restaurant_Managers

Appropriate Personal Server Bank Amounts

Servers transitioning to personal banks seek guidance on cash to carry:

• Common Recommendations:
  • Carry between $50-$100 in mixed denominations.
  • Smaller bills ($1s, $5s, $10s) are essential for making change.
• Factors Influencing Amount:
  • Average ticket prices.
  • Tip payment practices (cash vs. card).
• Operational Tips:
  • Be prepared for various payment scenarios.
  • Ensure sufficient change to avoid inconveniences.
• Consensus: Adequate preparation enhances efficiency and customer service.

Source: /r/Restaurant_Managers

Mitigating Kitchen Smell After Work

Restaurant workers share tips on reducing kitchen odors at home:

• Immediate Action:
  • Change out of work clothes as soon as possible.
  • Keep work attire separate from living spaces.
• Laundry Practices:
  • Wash work clothes separately from other garments.
  • Pre-soak greasy clothes with detergent before washing.
• Personal Hygiene:
  • Shower immediately after shifts to remove lingering odors.
• Additional Tips:
  • Use odor-proof bags for transporting clothes.
  • Keep work shoes outside or in a designated area.
  • Some use dish detergent for stubborn smells in laundry.

Consensus emphasizes proactive hygiene and dedicated routines to minimize home odors.

Source: /r/restaurant

Frustrations with Online Menus and Ordering Systems

Customers express annoyance with restaurants requiring online ordering tools just to view menus:

• Common Complaints:
  • Difficulty accessing current menus without registration.
  • Outdated menus on social media platforms.
• Customer Priorities:
  • Desire for easy and immediate access to menus.
  • Frustration with inaccuracies and higher prices on online ordering systems.
• Business Impact:
  • Potential loss of customers due to inaccessible menus.
• Recommendations:
  • Restaurants should improve their online presence independently.
  • Prioritize user-friendly menu access to attract and retain patrons.

Source: /r/restaurant

Launching a Kids Menu with a Personal Touch

A restaurant introduces a kids menu designed by the owner's son:

• Community Reactions:
  • Mixed feelings and suggestions on menu items.
  • Popular item recommendations: Grilled Cheese, Chicken Tenders.
• Unique Aspect:
  • Personal involvement adds charm to the menu.
• Marketing Tips:
  • Use tools like Growseo to increase visibility and attract families.
• Overall Sentiment:
  • Excitement about engaging younger customers.
  • Emphasis on practical food options and effective promotion strategies.

Source: /r/restaurant

Insights from Bar Owners Shared in Reddit AMA

Bar owners participate in a Reddit AMA, addressing various topics:

• Opening Bars with Friends:
  • Discussed challenges and potential complications.
• Liquor Quality Concerns:
  • Debates over cost-effective well liquors.
  • Importance of maintaining quality while managing costs.
• Ethical Practices:
  • Transparency in liquor mixing and pricing.
  • Customers question integrity regarding drink quality.
• Operational Strategies:
  • Knowledge of spirits enhances efficiency.
  • Promotional tactics can boost business.
• Additional Inquiries:
  • Advice on streaming services needed for NFL games.
• Community Engagement:
  • Blend of personal anecdotes and practical advice.
  • Shared experiences enrich the discussion.

Source: /r/BarOwners

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!