Why the Future of QSR Relies on Human Interaction

Starbucks is phasing out mobile order-only outlets, emphasizing human interaction as vital in QSR. In a tech-driven world, customers desire personal connections, making community and employee engagement key for loyalty. Rituals and authentic brand ambassadors enhance customer experiences. While technology aids efficiency, it must support, not replace, human engagement, fostering an environment that prioritizes personal interactions in QSR.

https://www.qsrmagazine.com/story/why-the-future-of-qsr-relies-on-human-interaction/

Applebee’s and IHOP’s CIO Places AI Bets That Can Boost Traffic and Improve the Dining Experience

Dine Brands’ CIO Justin Skelton plans to enhance IHOP and Applebee’s dining experiences through AI-driven technology, like personalized order suggestions based on customer history. The AI recommendation engine is currently in use for online orders and aims to improve in-person interactions. Skelton, cautious with technology investments due to limited IT resources, favors partnerships with major AI firms for solutions. Upcoming projects include AI tools for operational efficiency and self-service tech for franchisees. Balancing technology with the personal touch diners seek remains a priority for Dine Brands.

https://fortune.com/2025/08/13/applebees-and-ihops-cio-places-ai-bets-that-can-boost-traffic-and-improve-the-dining-experience/

McDonald’s and DoorDash Expand Global Partnership With New Online Ordering Experience in U.S.

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McDonald’s and DoorDash launched a new online ordering system in the U.S., allowing customers to order McDelivery directly from McDonalds.com without app downloads or logins. This partnership enhances convenience and efficiency, reflecting both companies’ commitment to innovation and customer access, now supporting McDelivery in 29 countries.

https://about.doordash.com/en-us/news/doordash-mcdonalds-online-ordering

Fast Food Brands Fire up AI Despite Challenging Backdrop

Fast food chains McDonald’s, Chipotle, and Yum Brands are increasingly integrating AI into their operations to streamline processes and enhance customer experiences, despite facing financial challenges. As they invest heavily in technology, McDonald’s leverages partnerships for edge computing to improve efficiency, while Yum utilizes its proprietary platform to enhance team interactions. Chipotle, despite a sales downturn, remains focused on technology to boost customer engagement and improve restaurant operations. All aim to utilize AI for better service and cost savings as they navigate a tough industry landscape.

https://www.ciodive.com/news/fast-food-brands-AI-strategy-financial-challenges/757356/

McDonald’s Expands Technology Investments to Drive Speed, Loyalty and Operational Efficiency |

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McDonald’s is investing in technology to transform customer experience and operational efficiency. Through a partnership with Google Cloud, they are implementing edge computing, enhancing order processing like the “Ready on Arrival” program. The company aims for 250 million loyalty users by 2027, having already gained 185 million. Technology upgrades include replacing legacy systems with standardized platforms for better data management. Recent financial results reveal a rise in income and sales, emphasizing the impact of these technology investments. McDonald’s strategy illustrates the importance of integrating technology in the competitive fast-food industry.

https://restauranttechnologynews.com/2025/08/mcdonalds-expands-technology-investments-to-drive-speed-loyalty-and-operational-efficiency/

Chipotle Rolls Out High-Efficiency Equipment and Automation Technologies to Optimize Kitchen Operations |

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Chipotle is enhancing kitchen efficiency by implementing high-tech equipment and automation, including the avocado-processing robot “Autocado” and new cooking tools that reduce prep time significantly. These upgrades aim to improve speed, consistency, and capacity as the company expands its catering services. With digital orders making up a large portion of sales, the focus is on modernizing operations to meet demand while maintaining culinary standards. As part of this strategy, the company also leverages a loyalty program to integrate customer data with kitchen operations, potentially redefining efficiency in fast-casual dining.

https://restauranttechnologynews.com/2025/08/chipotle-rolls-out-high-efficiency-equipment-and-automation-technologies-to-optimize-kitchen-operations/

McDonald’s Introduces a Digital McDonaldland Experience

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Nation’s Restaurant News is owned by Informa PLC, providing industry news and resources. McDonald’s launches a virtual McDonaldland experience in VR, allowing interaction with characters and games, coinciding with the McDonaldland Meal launch and a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x Hello Kitty Happy Meal starting Aug. 12.

https://www.nrn.com/quick-service/mcdonald-s-introduces-a-digital-mcdonaldland-experience

How Some Restaurants Are Rethinking Loyalty by Ditching the App |

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Restaurants are shifting from app-based loyalty programs to simpler models integrated into digital wallets or point-of-sale systems. Portillo’s Perks, for example, utilizes digital wallets for rewards, while Birdcall’s loyalty tracks rewards via phone numbers within its POS. This app-free approach enhances user experience, reduces friction, and offers better customer data collection, mirroring trends in consumer preferences for convenience without clutter. Major brands are joining this movement, indicating a significant industry shift away from traditional app reliance.

https://restauranttechnologynews.com/2025/08/how-some-restaurants-are-rethinking-loyalty-by-ditching-the-app/

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