A data-driven ranking of the top 25 quick-service chains by unit growth, same-store sales trajectory, and breakout potential — plus our predictions for who crosses 5,000 units by 2030
From micro-influencers to mega deals, QSR brands are spending millions on social campaigns. Here's what the data says about attribution, ROI, and whether it beats traditional advertising.
From eye-tracking research to AI-powered kiosks, the quick-service industry has turned menu design into a billion-dollar behavioral science
Mobile represents 60% of all digital restaurant orders. Starbucks drives 59% of U.S. sales through its app. McDonald's has 210 million loyalty users. The QSR transaction is moving permanently to the phone.
From competitive conquesting to predictive targeting, proximity-based promotions are becoming a core QSR marketing strategy
Commission rates are just the beginning. Data loss, operational friction, and brand damage push the true cost of aggregator delivery far higher than operators expect.
June’s employment report points to weaker seasonal hiring. Restaurant staffing decisions still depend on local demand, shift coverage and retention.
A tablet photo can close a gap between kitchen production and event leftovers. The next step is connecting the observation to attendance, menu mix and the next booking.
The returning summer loyalty challenge adds a restaurant-level contest. Its economics depend on who changes their routine, including customers who never finish.
The summer campaign creates a window to measure customer trial, order contribution and repeat business. Its headline budget is not a merchant payout.
Crunchtime named early access for three AI tools. Evaluation should follow spoken counts, photo judgments and recommended tasks through the finished work.
Yum's nearly $9 billion digital-sales figure excludes Pizza Hut. Consistent brands and ordering definitions matter when comparing adoption.
OpenTable's August update covers table rules and cross-location guest history. Conversational Reporting was in testing.
July accommodation and food-service hires nearly matched separations. The September JOLTS release shows why stable headcount can still require substantial recruiting.
Palona's August study counts orders and catering inquiries separately, leaving the conversion from captured requests to fulfilled business unreported.