Convenience is king for drive-thru diners

Foodservice continues to evolve, and the definition of value for many diners has shifted. While the benefit of drive-thrus was originally a speedier experience, these days, convenience is even more important to consumers. Today’s diners value food quality most (45 per cent), followed very closely by convenience (44 per cent), and speed (34 per cent) […]

Common challenges with restaurant technology

While restaurant technology has the opportunity to revolutionize operations, boost customer experience, and provide significant cost savings, it comes with challenges that can have the opposite effect on your business. A recent study by Canopy illustrates the technology issues that can occur and the effects they can have on efficiency and your customer experience. Here […]

Using digital menu boards to boost the bottom line

As technology continues to drive change in the foodservice industry, menu boards matter. In fact, studies show that digital menu boards can increase sales by as much as 38 per cent. From a customer’s first impression to providing a positive experience, digital signage can impact how diners see your restaurant and whether they return. Whether […]

What’s trending with QSRs

These days, competition is fierce as QSRs compete with takeout and delivery, convenience stores, gas stations, and most recently, grocery stores. Some QSRs are taking steps to simplify service with kiosks and faster drive-thrus, connecting with customers by going greener, or delivering seasonal LTOs to get guests coming in. With so many options for diners […]

What’s new in restaurant real estate?

As the foodservice industry continues on its road to recovery, many restaurants and chains are looking at expanding, but what are the possible pitfalls in today’s restaurant real estate? Experts are seeing a significant rise in real estate demand, many looking for multiple drive-thru lanes as part of their expansion. According to Emily Durham, senior […]

The drive-thru evolution

As takeout and off premise dining traffic remains high long after the pandemic, many QSRs are looking to improve their drive-thru service to decrease wait times and boost efficiency. 39 per cent of QSRs report bumper to bumper traffic in the drive-thru, causing longer lines and customer back-up. During the pandemic, when takeout was the […]

Fast-casual diners may go elsewhere if no drive-thru is offered

New data from Technomic suggests that fast-casual diners are beginning to expect drive-thrus at restaurant locations, similar to the standard that has been established with quick-service restaurants. Some even say they would dine elsewhere if there wasn’t a drive-thru option. The “Future of LSR: Fast food and fast-casual” survey found that nearly half (45 per […]

3 ways restaurants can navigate pandemic consumer behaviour

By Mike Wilson The last two years have challenged restaurants with evolving safety concerns, rules, and diner behaviour and preferences. While sales were down 29 per cent entering 2021, they’re expected to increase 21 per cent in 2022, potentially reaching pre-pandemic levels. Restaurants must continue to be nimble, responsive, and creative to survive and thrive. […]

Canada’s first Chipotlane drive-thru opens Oct. 25

After the significant success of its Chipotlane drive-thru lanes in the U.S., Chipotle Mexican Grill is opening its first Canadian Chipotlane on October 25. The Chipotlane drive-thru lane allows customers to pick up digital orders without leaving their cars, placing their order in advance via the Chipotle app or Chipotle website and driving up to […]

Wendy’s looks to expand Canadian and digital presence

Wendy’s plans to expand its global footprint to 8,000 restaurants by 2025 include focusing on Canadian and digital expansion. Chief Development Officer Abigail Pringle said the restaurant chain is focusing on driving growth through nontraditional locations. Some 30 per cent of the roughly 1,200 new locations will be nontraditional units, including ghost kitchens, delivery-only locations, fuel, […]