2025

McDonald’s Sees Boost in Loyalty Amid Challenges in Q4 Earnings

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McDonald’s Q4 earnings fell short, but loyalty programs thrived, with comparable global sales increasing 0.4% amid a 1.4% dip in the U.S. due to an E. coli outbreak. The MyMcDonald’s Rewards program saw $30 billion in sales, a 30% rise, with 175 million active users. Goals include 250 million users and $45 billion in sales by 2027. New initiatives like the McValue menu and geofencing tech aim to enhance customer satisfaction and drive sales.

https://www.pymnts.com/earnings/2025/mcdonalds-sees-boost-in-loyalty-amid-challenges-in-q4-earnings/

Why Owning the Tech Stack Is the Key to Yum!’s Future

Yum! Brands focuses on owning its tech stack to enhance control over tech innovation, reducing reliance on third-party vendors. CEO David Gibbs highlights the development of “Byte by Yum!”, a comprehensive tech platform for digital sales, online ordering, and more, which has significantly driven their $30 billion digital sales in 2024. The integration of AI and streamlined tech improves franchisee operations and customer engagement, making it crucial for the company's growth and efficiency across Taco Bell, KFC, and Pizza Hut brands.

https://www.qsrmagazine.com/story/why-owning-the-tech-stack-is-the-key-to-yums-future/

Yum Brands Becomes the Latest Fast-food Company to Lean Into AI — and Its Stock Gains

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Yum Brands enhances AI integration across its fast-food chains, leading to a stock increase of 9.4%. The company launched the Byte digital-ordering platform, aiming to simplify ordering and operations. Yum's revenue and profit exceeded Wall Street expectations, showcasing growth in Taco Bell and KFC. Plans for expansion of AI-driven technologies are set for 2025. Despite a decrease in net income, digital sales grew 15%, reflecting a strong digital strategy.

https://www.marketwatch.com/story/yum-brands-stock-rises-as-taco-bell-and-kfc-fuel-profit-and-revenue-beats-f25db4b4

McDonald’s Accused of Tough Tactics in Fights With Councils Over New Branches

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McDonald’s faces criticism for aggressive tactics against councils to open new outlets, using controversial arguments about health and community benefits to win appeals. An investigation revealed the fast-food chain has successfully reversed council refusals in 11 out of 14 appeal cases since 2020, undermining local governance and public health initiatives. Critics demand transparency and question McDonald’s claims of promoting healthier lifestyles, highlighting its influence in poorer areas.

https://www.theguardian.com/society/2025/feb/05/mcdonalds-accused-of-tough-tactics-councils-new-branches

McDonald’s SWOT Analysis: Stock Faces Challenges And Growth Potential

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TLDR: McDonald's faces stock challenges from an E. coli outbreak but retains growth potential through strong brand, digital initiatives, and dividend history. Recent performance shows threats, especially in U.S. and international markets. Analysts remain cautiously optimistic about long-term recovery and market share gains, despite inflation and food safety concerns. Current earnings projections are modest with pressures on profitability from low-value offerings. Digital efforts are key to future growth.

https://www.investing.com/news/swot-analysis/mcdonalds-swot-analysis-stock-faces-challenges-amid-growth-potential-93CH-3848420

The 40/40 List of America’s Hottest Fast Casuals: The Final Edition

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/

Popmenu Releases Restaurant Dining Trends to Watch in 2025

Popmenu predicts 2025 U.S. restaurant trends post-2024's challenges. Operators focus on engaging guests with new pricing, ordering strategies, and AI use. 62% of operators are cautiously optimistic; 32% plan expansion. Consumers dine less frequently (69% weekly) but prioritize affordable meals. Expected trends: fewer price hikes (57% will raise menu prices), reduced online fees (75% aim to cut them), increased AI adoption (34% current, 48% planned), more tailored marketing, diverse menu options, and unique dining experiences (74% to enhance atmosphere).

https://www.qsrmagazine.com/news/popmenu-releases-restaurant-dining-trends-to-watch-in-2025/

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