| Yum! Brands News | |
| | Yum!Now News | |
| | Competitor Intelligence | |
| | Industry Trends | |
| | Policy & Regulatory News | |
| | Restaurant Technology | |
| | | |
| KFC Malaysia expressed gratitude to Malaysians for their support, celebrating its ninth consecutive gold win at the Putra Brand Awards 2023 in the retail category. Chandrasagran Munusamy, KFC Malaysia head, acknowledged the significance of the People’s Choice Award, highlighting the brand’s 50-year journey and special moments in 2023. Events like the Kepci Music Festival and Kentucky Town showcased KFC’s cultural impact, while collaborations with Pestle and Mortar Clothing and PUBG Battlegrounds added excitement. |
| Taco 'bout a tasty career for this executive! |
| Ready to embark on a delicious journey? You'll find one in the latest edition of "How I Got Here," featuring Taco Bell President of North America & International Scott Mezvinsky. From flipping burgers at McDonald's as a teen to now leading Taco Bell's global growth strategy, Scott is a foodservice veteran who knows a thing or two about the power of embracing challenges and fostering continuous growth. Don't miss out on the chance to learn from one of the industry's finest! |
| Wendy’s has declined rumors of implementing surge pricing, assuring customers no plans to raise menu prices during peak hours. CEO Kirk Tanner’s mention of “dynamic pricing” drew backlash, with critics fearing price hikes. The company clarifies its focus on digital menu boards for discounts during slower periods, denying intentions to inflate prices during high demand. |
| Chipotle has announced a $50 million boost to its Cultivate Next fund, doubling its investment since its 2022 launch, aimed at integrating innovative technologies into its supply chain. Already testing products from fund-backed companies like Vebu and Hyphen, Chipotle noted it anticipates enhanced efficiency and productivity. CEO Brian Niccol highlighted the focus on automation, particularly for morning prep tasks, aiming to streamline operations amidst rising labor costs. |
| Subway introduced the Sidekick Safe, a limited-edition bag resembling a blueprint tube, to safeguard footlong sandwiches and Sidekick snacks like cookies, churros and pretzels. With demand surging for its new sweet treats, Subway aims to protect these goodies for ultimate fans. The handcrafted bag features three insulated compartments, a keypad lock and a carrying strap, ensuring security and convenience. To win one of the 100 available Sidekick Safes, enthusiasts can upload a photo enjoying their favorite Footlong Sidekick on Subway’s website between February 29 and March 2. |
| Shaquille O’Neal reported that he will not seek re-election to Papa John’s board, citing business commitments. Despite stepping down, he remains a restaurant owner and brand ambassador. O’Neal’s involvement in 2019 marked a pivotal moment for Papa John’s amidst controversies surrounding its founder. His $8 million deal and subsequent extension helped revive the brand, reflected in the “Shaq-a-roni” pizza. |
| Carl’s Jr. has expanded its bold flavor offerings with the introduction of the Spicy Breakfast Burger and the return of the Spicy Western Bacon Burger. The Spicy Breakfast Burger has a charbroiled all-beef patty topped with jalapeno coins, crispy bacon, an egg, pepperjack cheese, Hash Rounds and ketchup on a seeded bun. Meanwhile, the Spicy Western Bacon Cheeseburger features a charbroiled angus patty with jalapeno coins, bacon, melted pepperjack cheese, crispy onion rings and tangy BBQ sauce on a seeded bun. New My Rewards loyalty members can enjoy a free Spicy Western Bacon Cheeseburger with purchase, while existing members can grab one for $5. |
| Dine Brands reported that it is eyeing co-branded locations in the U.S. following successful overseas ventures. Eight such establishments in Canada, the UAE and Mexico generate double the revenue by covering all dayparts. Each venue maintains brand identity with separate entrances and dining areas. Co-branding, once common, faced challenges but has resurfaced in recent years. Operational details like menu ordering for mixed parties are being addressed. Applebee’s and IHOP noted that they strive for net growth amidst closures and slowed new openings due to rising construction costs. |
| Cava reported revenue gains of 52% in Q4 and nearly 60% for FY2023, supported by a 30% unit growth and 5.2% same-store traffic increase. The chain noted it aims to boost 2024 sales by enhancing dine-in experience with its “Project Soul” restaurant design update, focusing on ambiance and loyalty. Despite industry trends favoring drive-thru and digital channels, Cava will prioritize cozy seating areas and a reimagined loyalty program to deepen diner loyalty. |
| Starbird, a leading super-premium fast-food concept, appointed Jason Olah as Lead Franchising Consultant to drive growth through franchising and real estate development in key markets like Sacramento, Seattle, Portland and Las Vegas. With experience from The Tutoring Center Franchise Corporation, Olah brings expertise in franchise operations and recruitment. His focus includes selecting ideal franchisees, optimizing processes and forming strategic partnerships for expansion. |
| Firehouse Subs is celebrating National Meatball Day on March 9 with $5 Meatball Subs ordered through their app or online. Featuring their popular OG Firehouse Meatball and three other varieties, guests can choose Chicken Parmesan, Sweet & Spicy or Pepperoni Pizza Meatball subs. To help guests choose their perfect match, Firehouse Subs launched a Buzzfeed quiz, “Which Firehouse Meatball Sub Are You?” emphasizing flavor and texture. |
| The FDA announced the discontinuation of fast-food wrappers and packaging containing PFAS (perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances), harmful chemicals that don’t degrade and pose health risks. Starting in 2020, US food manufacturers voluntarily committed to phasing out PFAS in packaging, with many companies, including McDonald’s, acting before the deadline. |
| Fast-food chains are embracing digital strategies like dynamic pricing and AI-driven virtual assistants to enhance customer service and streamline operations. Wendy’s recent announcement about implementing dynamic pricing received mixed reactions, but it clarified its aim to offer lower prices during off-peak hours. Other chains have tested AI-driven virtual assistants at drive-thrus to improve order accuracy and speed. While these advancements offer benefits like competitive pricing and personalized recommendations, concerns about privacy and effective communication persist. |
| Del Taco has discontinued its use of voicebots from Presto Automation for drive-thru orders, despite initial testing success. The decision, revealed in a Presto SEC filing, highlights challenges with AI adoption in fast-food drive-thrus. Presto cited strong demand from other chains, including Carl’s Jr. and Hardee’s, but Del Taco’s move casts doubt on AI’s feasibility in drive-thru operations. |
| Presto Automation, a key provider of voicebots for drive-thru ordering, faces financial turmoil, with a looming cash shortage and the departure of major clients like Applebee’s and Chili’s. Despite optimism from its chairman, doubts persist about the company’s viability as it struggles with debt and operational losses. Presto’s focus on its drive-thru voicebot technology, designed to streamline operations and reduce labor costs, may offer a lifeline, but challenges remain in achieving full automation. |
|
|
