QSR's 40/40 List Overview:
The QSR 40/40 List, started in 2017, highlights America’s hottest fast casual restaurants. Fast casual has evolved since 2010, favoring affordability and quality in leased real estate but has recently begun to converge with quick service. Abandoning its original tiered structure after Year 1, the list has showcased 320 unique concepts by 2024. Notable concepts like honeygrow and Velvet Taco showcase growth through innovation and adaptation to market trends. Key emerging brands include Toastique, Huey Magoo’s, Mo’ Bettahs, Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, Swig, and Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii, each demonstrating unique positioning and strategic growth approaches.
https://www.qsrmagazine.com/story/the-40-40-list-of-americas-hottest-fast-casuals-the-final-edition/