Mid‑sized pizza chains are gaining ground as consumers prioritize hot, high‑quality pizza over sheer delivery speed. With giants slowing and carryout times rising, operational discipline is becoming the new competitive edge.
The well-publicized lawsuit that claims McDonald’s misleads consumers with the McRib’s name has sparked debate over transparency in QSR marketing. While legal impact may be minimal, experts say perception risks could force tighter messaging and PR control.
Digital signage is becoming core QSR infrastructure, boosting ticket sizes, reducing decision fatigue, and strengthening guest trust through real time updates. Operators leveraging dynamic menus and time sensitive promos are benefitting.
AI-powered personalization, shifting health behaviors, and cost pressures are impacting restaurant strategies in 2026. Operators eye takeout growth and rising non alcoholic demand as key levers for expansion.
