2025

McDonald’s Extends Partnership With Cognizant, Boosts Digital Growth

McDonald's renews partnership with Cognizant to enhance digital growth and support in key areas like finance and HR, leveraging innovations in Cloud and AI. The collaboration aims to improve operational efficiency and customer experience. McDonald's is focused on strategic initiatives to drive growth globally, despite macroeconomic challenges. Shares rose 0.6% post-announcement, with plans to open 50,000 restaurants by 2027.

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/mcdonalds-extends-partnership-cognizant-boosts-163100274.html

McDonald’s Grows Cognizant Deal for Global AI Transformation

McDonald's expands partnership with Cognizant to enhance AI and cloud-based systems, modernizing operations across over 40,000 restaurants globally. This multi-year agreement focuses on improving enterprise functions, franchise relationships, and system reliability, amid a push for digital transformation in the food service industry.

https://technologymagazine.com/articles/mcdonalds-grows-cognizant-deal-for-global-ai-transformation

Fast Food Global Market Forecast and Competitive Analysis

Fast Food Market Report 2024-2033 Summary:
Global fast-food market projected to grow from $788.72 billion in 2024 to $1.25 trillion by 2033 (CAGR 5.28%). Growth driven by demand for convenience, urbanization, busy lifestyles, and increased disposable incomes. Key players include Starbucks, Domino's, and Yum! Brands. Fast-casual restaurants and healthier menu options are notable trends, affecting competition and consumer preferences. Regional insights highlight strong growth in the U.S., India, Germany, and UAE due to lifestyle changes and expanding QSR choices.

https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/01/21/3012374/0/en/Fast-Food-Global-Market-Forecast-and-Competitive-Analysis-Report-2024-2033-Featuring-Starbucks-Papa-John-s-Domino-s-Wendy-s-Performance-Food-Group-Yum-Brands-Restaurant-Brands-Inte.html

2025 Dining Trends That Will Keep Guests Coming Back

2025 Dining Trends: U.S. foodservice focuses on reimagined classics (e.g., chili crisp) to engage diners. Key drivers include indulgence, convenience, and value. Surveys show diners prioritize new experiences and quick options, especially Gen Z. Restaurants are innovating through technology and menu variety, balancing indulgent and convenient offerings. Value perceptions hinge on quality, health options, and loyalty programs. Smaller portions and tasting menus gain popularity, while consumers show willingness to support fair wages for workers.

https://www.qsrmagazine.com/story/2025-dining-trends-that-will-keep-guests-coming-back/

The Strategy Behind Fast Food Rereleases

Fast food chains are increasingly reintroducing nostalgic menu items and retro branding as customers yearning for the past drive demand. Influenced by social media and economic dissatisfaction, chains like Taco Bell and Burger King leverage childhood nostalgia, appealing primarily to millennials and Gen Z consumers. While balancing innovation and current trends, these restaurants recognize a strong appetite for familiar flavors and vintage aesthetics.

https://www.chowhound.com/1762613/fast-food-nostalgia-menu-rereleases/

5 Steps for Restaurants to Implement GenAI, Assess Its Value

TLDR: Restaurants can implement Generative AI (GenAI) by following five steps: 1) Understand GenAI applications (e.g., customer service automation, menu optimization, personalized marketing). 2) Assess readiness, including technology, staff skills, strategic alignment, and cost projections. 3) Build a data-driven culture through effective data collection and management. 4) Overcome challenges like integration issues and staff training. 5) Measure success using customer feedback, operational efficiency, and financial performance. Adopting GenAI can enhance operations and meet evolving consumer demands.

https://www.qsrweb.com/blogs/5-steps-for-restaurants-to-implement-genai-assess-its-value/

German Doner Kebab Aims to Seduce Gen Z With Bizarre Ads

German Doner Kebab (GDK) targets Gen Z with chaotic, bizarre ads featuring a hyperactive bobblehead character. The campaign aims to introduce American audiences to German doner kebabs, a lesser-known product, through loud, quirky messaging. GDK seeks to attract Gen Z as brand ambassadors, leveraging their influence on social media and openness to new cuisines, while planning further U.S. expansions. The approach contrasts with GDK's more traditional marketing in established markets, emphasizing the need to engage younger consumers through unconventional methods.

https://www.adweek.com/brand-marketing/this-qsr-brand-wants-to-seduce-gen-z-by-screaming-in-their-faces/#

America’s Most Expensive Fast Food Burgers (and Their Quality)

Expensive fast food burgers in America often exceed expected prices, averaging around $8.41, with some meals costing up to $20. Analysis reveals many pricey options, like the Jack in the Box Jumbo Jack ($6.61) and McDonald's Quarter Pounder ($7.49), have low quality due to undisclosed sourcing and processing. In contrast, higher-quality options include Wendy's Dave's Single ($7.69) and Shake Shack's Shackburger ($7.99), both noted for fresh ingredients and responsible sourcing. Ultimately, price doesn't guarantee quality in fast food burgers.

https://nj1015.com/ixp/341/p/expensive-fast-food-burgers/

U.S. Fast Food and Quick Services Restaurants Market Trends

U.S. fast food market projected to reach $311.99B by 2030, growing at 3.4% CAGR. Key chains like McDonald's and Domino's enhance delivery and tech to tap into consumer demand for convenience. Fried chicken sandwiches gain popularity, and hamburgers remain top preference. Major players adapt strategies including product innovation and partnerships to boost sales. Comprehensive report covers market trends, consumer behavior, forecasts, and competitive landscape.

https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/01/17/3011449/0/en/U-S-Fast-Food-and-Quick-Services-Restaurants-Market-Trends-Analysis-Report-2025-2030-with-McDonald-s-Pizza-Hut-KFC-Domino-s-Pizza-Taco-Bell-CFA-Properties-Subway-Chipotle-Mexican-G.html

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