By Amy Hom COO | Barcelona Wine Bar, Sheri Miksa 5X CEO/Pres. (BIBIBOP, Boneheads, Mazzio's, Robeks, Rubio's) | GLEAM Network
Introducing the first WiRL Workshop! This exclusive lunch-and-learn, presented in partnership with LEAD, GLEAM, and Full Course, is designed to fuel your leadership journey with four engaging, no-fluff workshop sessions. We’re diving into leadership development, financial acumen, and mentorship, with a fourth session still under wraps (but we promise, it’ll be worth the wait). Plus, lunch! (additional fee)
What sets top-performing franchisees apart isn’t just what they do—it’s how they think. In this high-energy session, franchise performance expert and author of “The Wealthy Franchisee,” Scott Greenberg, will unpack the inner game of success in the quick-service restaurant industry. Drawing from years of research and real-world franchise experience, Scott will reveal the mindset, habits, and leadership traits that separate wealthy franchisees from the rest. (additional fee)
Join us and be welcomed to Atlanta and its rich restaurant history with one of the brands that started it all—Chick-fil-A. CEO Andrew Cathy will share his journey and tales growing up in the iconic chain, and how he’s now fostering and nurturing a people-first culture that continues to lead with heart and a commitment to best-in-class operations. You’re invited to the intimate conversation and celebration, which will include some light appetizers and drinks, music, and swag drops.
Where
Marquis Ballroom ABCD
6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Welcome Reception
Get ready to mix and mingle at the welcome reception! We’re serving up delicious snacks, refreshing drinks, and great company – the perfect ingredients for kicking off the QSR Evolution conference. Come ready to connect with fellow restaurant industry professionals in a relaxed setting and let the good times flow!
Future-Proofing QSR: How Brands Are Engaging Next-Gen Customers and Team Members
By Neha DK Sr. Director of Marketing | Pizza Hut Global, Amy Durini CMO | Taco Bell International, Anna Faktorovich VP of Brand Management | KFC U.S., Jack Hinchliffe CMO | Habit Burger & Grill
Keynote
Where
Imperial Ballroom
9:45 AM - 10:00 AM
Networking Break
10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
Onboarding to Everboarding, with CHART
By Ashley Helkenn Senior Director of Training | Bonchon Korean Fried Chicken, Lisa Holloway Director, Global Learning & Development | CKE Restaurants, Matthew Steele Manager of Training and Development | Galardi Group, Dr. Felicia White Ed.D (Moderator) Vice President, Learning and Leadership Development | Ascent Hospitality Management
The traditional approach to onboarding is changing. Instead of hiring and training for a few weeks, and then hoping for the best, the top restaurant companies are continuously training and developing talent throughout their time with the brand. With help from CHART (Council of Hotel and Restaurant Trainers), we’ll explore how you not only find the best employees but educate and nurture them to become the future of your business.
Labor, Culture, and the Employee Value Proposition
We explored the fear and potential of AI last year. Let’s regroup to see what’s changed, why it matters, and whether or not AI is truly the unlock your restaurant has been looking for.
Technology: From Innovation to Optimization
Where
International 4-5
10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
Chick-fil-A Fireside Chat
By Brent Fielder Vice President of Global Impact | Chick-fil-A, Inc.
Whether you’re looking for a partner or trying to find a brand to pour capital in, we’ll bring together industry leaders to discuss the state of investing, how both sides can work together, and what it takes to win, regardless of which aisle you’re on.
Fast Casual, Franchising, and the Journey to Growth
Where
International 8-9
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
Networking Coffee Break
Where
Marquis Ballroom
11:15 AM - 12:00 PM
Reduce Employee Turnover At No Additional Cost
By David McClaskey President | McClaskey Excellence Institute, Billy Schaefer Vice President | McClaskey Excellence Institute
David McClaskey, along with Thom Crosby, founded the Pal’s Business Excellence Institute 25 years ago (it was rebranded to McClaskey Excellence Institute in 2020). Now, they'll tackle a pulsing topic at the QSR Evolution Conference: Employee turnover is a major concern. Learn how QSR and other companies that have consistently low turnover create an environment where employees can stay up to twice as long with little to no ongoing cost.
Labor, Culture, and the Employee Value Proposition
Your digital sales might be growing as customer preference continues to evolve in COVID’s wake, from delivery to mobile-order, pickup, and more. But are your off-premises gains coming at the expense of in-store customers? We’ll break down how to separate and balance the flow of transactions so you can deliver customer experience on both ends without sacrificing the other.
To put it lightly, raising money has been a challenging and convoluted experience in recent years. What’s the deal with valuations? Should you go to a bank? IPO? Partner? Let’s take the pulse of the landscape and provide some actionable ideas to get funding for your restaurant growth.
Fast Casual, Franchising, and the Journey to Growth
Gen Zers aren’t just entering the spending pool; they’ve fast become a significant labor target for restaurants of all kinds. What do they want and how can you attract and retain them, from training tools to outreach?
Labor, Culture, and the Employee Value Proposition
Industry vet and Hot Palette America (Pepper Lunch) CEO Troy Hooper takes you inside his playbook for how a growing restaurant chain, corporate or franchised, can deploy AI in real time to fuel expansion and bolster the bottom line.
Remember when having a drive-thru disqualified you from being a fast casual? Those days are long gone as technology and the need for convenience continue to surge. How can fast casuals get credit for their differentiators and what do customers care most about? Is it food, service, or something else? Let’s explore the blurring of the lines and what it means for the quick-service category going forward.
Fast Casual, Franchising, and the Journey to Growth
Where
International 8-9
1:45 PM - 2:00 PM
Networking Break
Where
Marquis Ballroom
2:00 PM - 2:45 PM
How Doing Good is Good for Business, with The Giving Kitchen
In today’s business landscape, doing good is more than just a choice—it's a smart strategy. Customers and employees alike are increasingly looking for companies that demonstrate social responsibility and a commitment to purpose. Integrating a cause into your business model can drive sales, boost employee satisfaction, and foster long-term customer loyalty. This session will explore successful ideas and strategies for embedding social purpose into your food and beverage operation, helping you build a powerful halo effect around your brand.
Labor, Culture, and the Employee Value Proposition
Where
International 4-5
2:00 PM - 2:45 PM
Loyalty Metrics That Matter: Round 2
By David ‘Rev’ Ciancio (Moderator) Restaurant Owner and Marketing Consultant, Melissa Cummings VP of Digital Marketing | Tropical Smoothie Cafe, Zach Goldstein CEO | Thanx, Kim Lewis Chief Marketing Officer | Capriotti’s, Preston Nix Director, Loyalty & CRM | Burger King US&C, Julie Wade Head of Marketing | Taziki's, Jeff Wilshire Senior Director, Digital & Performance Marketing | MOOYAH Burgers, Fries and Shakes
One of last year’s most boisterous and informative panels returns for a status check on where loyalty programs are going and what you need to track to understand the real health of your customer base.
Technology: From Innovation to Optimization
Where
International 6-7
2:00 PM - 2:45 PM
Women in Restaurant Leadership: State of the Union
QSR’s WiRL platform takes the stage to once again gather insights, advice, and share stories from women leaders around the industry as we look to elevate, educate, and empower.
Take the Lead
Where
International 8-9
2:00 PM - 2:45 PM
The Franchise Experts Forum
By Sam Ballas Founder/ Co-Founder/ CEO | East Coast Wings + Grill/ Sammy’s Sliders, Graham Chapman (Moderator) CEO and cofounder | ZorForum, LLC, Jon Fischer Head of Development | Wetzel’s Pretzels, Cheryl Fletcher CDO | Tropical Smoothie Cafe, Van Ingram VP Franchise Recruitment | Jack in the Box, Kevin King CEO and President | Donatos Pizza, Steve Schulze CEO | Nékter Juice Bar
Want to know what’s happening in the restaurant franchise world and where the growth is? A panel of sector leaders will dive in and take your questions on what makes a winning franchisor and franchisees.
Fast Casual, Franchising, and the Journey to Growth
Where
International 8-9
2:45 PM - 3:15 PM
Networking Coffee Break
Where
Marquis Ballroom
3:15 PM - 3:30 PM
Sizzling Insights: The QSR Market Boom
Discover the latest developments in the QSR sector. From consumer-driven flavor innovations to marketing strategies that captivate new demographics, this session offers a look into the key dynamics that every stakeholder should understand. Uncover practical strategies to enhance your brand’s market position and build customer loyalty.
Women in Restaurant Leadership Networking Reception: Murder Mystery
Get ready for a one-of-a-kind evening of connection, creativity, and community at the Women in Restaurant Leadership networking reception—this time, with a twist. We’re turning the traditional networking event on its head with a full-blown murder mystery experience, complete with costumes, props, and a cast of suspicious (but very charming) characters. It’s an immersive night of intrigue and empowerment, where meaningful conversations meet mysterious plotlines—and maybe even a ghost or two.
It’s an experience that would be a crime to miss out on!
Dress code: Casual attire with a Roaring '20s twist encouraged.
Where
International ABC
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Networking Reception
After a full day of learning, get ready to connect with the best in the industry for a night of networking. Enjoy food and drinks with colleagues and friends old and new.
Where
Marquis Ballroom
8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Speakeasy Soiree
Step back in time for a Speakeasy Soirée, where the drinks are flowing, the jazz is jumping, and the conversations come easy. It’s a night of vintage vibes, good company, and a little 1920s mischief—no secret password required.
What does Donald Trump being elected mean for your restaurant and your workforce? Courtney Leyes and Emily Litzinger from Fisher-Phillips return to break it all down.
Labor, Culture, and the Employee Value Proposition
Where
International 3
10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
Crystal Ball Series: Future of Tech
By Jim Bitticks President & COO | Dave's Hot Chicken, Kris Douglas VP of Technology | Smalls Sliders, Liz Moskow Food Futurist, Founder | Saase, Aaron Noveshen Founder and Chief Executive Officer | Starbird, Chrissy Ouellette Cofounder | Byte-Sized & Bossy; VP of Business Development | Touchpoint Restaurant Solutions, Joseph Szala (Moderator) Vice President of Digital Experience | 3 Owl
Let’s ask one question: What’s the biggest tech trend nobody is talking about yet? Let the craziness ensue. Bring your thoughts and ask the experts what they think.
Technology: From Innovation to Optimization
Where
International 4-5
10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
Unlocking Growth and Profitability: Wendy's Strategic Approach to Franchise Development
By Tatiana Lambert Vice President, U.S. Chief Development Officer | Wendy's
Join us for an insightful session where we’ll explore Wendy’s new brand promise and how it shapes the brand’s growth strategy. Wendy’s’ U.S. Chief Development Officer, Tatiana Lambert, will dive into the key elements of the company’s Strategic Development approach, including market planning and leveraging data to fuel expansion. Discover how Wendy’s uses strategic site selection, innovative asset strategies, targeted market positioning and a range of incentives and programs to support franchisee success and drive profitability.
In recent years, the price tiers between QSR and fast casual have grown closer, not further apart. How can the elevated category navigate this reality while staying on the front foot of growth?
Fast Casual, Franchising, and the Journey to Growth
A lot of restaurant brands talk about putting employees first and empowering their workers. Learn how to make a true impact and nurture team members who will become ambassadors of your brand.
Labor, Culture, and the Employee Value Proposition
Where
International 4-5
11:15 AM - 12:00 PM
Drive-Thru Report: Insights and Revelations
By Bill Aseere CTO | Nékter Juice BarWhit, Allen Beck Director of Off-Premise and Catering | Costa Vida, Luke Irving Founder and CEO | Fingermark, Laura Livers (Moderator) Chief Revenue Officer | Intouch Insight, Beth Stockmoe Vice President of Operations | MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes, Doug Willmarth CEO | Beans & Brews Coffeehouse
Earlier in the morning, we revealed the fastest, most accurate, and friendliest drive-thrus in the country. Now, let’s dive into the insights behind the data with leaders from quick service’s hallmark channel.
Technology: From Innovation to Optimization
Where
International 6-7
11:15 AM - 12:00 PM
Staying Fresh after 60 Years, with Subway Chief Operating & Insights Officer Mike Kappitt
In an ever-changing marketplace, how does Subway – a brand celebrating 60 years of sandwich expertise – continue to attract new guests while keeping loyal fans hungry for more? Join us to hear more about Subway’s next chapter and how it’s continuously evolving to shape its future.
Take the Lead
Where
International 8-9
11:15 AM - 12:00 PM
Stopping the Employee Shift Show: Turning Hourly Teams into High-Performing Brand Ambassadors
Hourly employees are the heart, soul, and face of most restaurants. Yet many operators struggle to equip them with the tools, motivation, and management they need to thrive. In this breakout session, business performance expert Scott Greenberg will reveal the key differences between managing hourly employees and salaried staff. Attendees will learn proven strategies to better train, motivate, and manage their teams, empowering hourly employees to deliver exceptional performance and embody their brand. Walk away with actionable insights to build a high-performance culture that improves retention, customer experience, and profitability.
Fast Casual, Franchising, and the Journey to Growth
Where
International 8-9
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Lunch
Where
Marquis Ballroom
1:00 PM - 1:45 PM
What Do Restaurant Employees Really Want?
By Lissa Bowen Executive Director | Full Course Foundation, Meaghan Goedde CEO | Olive & Finch, Cheryl Kish (Moderator) Founder & President | Define Consulting, LLC; Executive Coach, Organizational, Leadership, and Talent Development, Mariana Marques Sr. Director | Operations Excellence, Firehouse Subs US&C, Chris Smith CEO | Zunzi's + Zunzibar, Amer Wahab President | Kettlemans Bagel
Whether its recruitment or benefits, delivering a proposition that dials into the needs of today’s restaurant worker can make all the difference.
Labor, Culture, and the Employee Value Proposition
Where
International 4-5
1:00 PM - 1:45 PM
Balancing Innovation and Human Touch: AI & Robotics in the Future of Restaurant Operations
By Dr. Rachel J.C. Fu (Moderator) THEM Chair and EFTI Director | University of Florida, Bob Schalow Senior Vice President | Diversified Restaurant Group, Scott Taylor CEO | Cherry Bounce Hospitality, Ryan Weaver Chief Executive Officer | Lee's Famous Recipe Chicken
Partnerships, data share, first- and third-party, last-mile—these solutions and topics continue to evolve as the channel grows for consumers, economic challenges or not. As guests prove their willingness to pay for the service, how can aggregators and operators work together to solve the concerns that have hovered over the category since its inception?
Technology: From Innovation to Optimization
Where
International 6-7
1:00 PM - 1:45 PM
More Than a Moment: How Jack in the Box Creates Cultural Experiences 365 Days A Year
Join Ryan Ostrom, Chief Customer & Digital Officer for Jack in the Box, as he explores how QSR brands can move beyond traditional marketing to create meaningful cultural experiences that resonate with today's consumers. In this candid conversation, Ryan will share how Jack in the Box has successfully integrated its unique brand voice into cultural moments that connect with fans' distinct interests while driving business results.
Inspired by our annual blockbuster report, we tap the insight and best practices from some of the top employers in the QSR industry. Whether its wages, benefits, or culture, becoming an employer of choice is a critical key to scaling your brand.
Labor, Culture, and the Employee Value Proposition
Office culture might be in flux, but catering has made a major comeback in recent years. Operators are finding new opportunities, from smaller groups to digital unlocks, as they look to get their food in front of more guests with large, profitable orders.
Technology: From Innovation to Optimization
Where
International 6-7
2:00 PM - 2:45 PM
Driving Franchisee Success Through Effective Partnerships, with Freddy's CEO Chris Dull
By Chris Dull CEO | Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers
Join us for an enlightening session where we’ll explore Freddy’s approach to fostering robust franchisor-franchisee relationships. Freddy’s CEO, Chris Dull, will delve into the key elements of the company’s collaborative strategy, including effective communication and mutual support. He will offer insights into how Freddy’s ensures franchisee success through comprehensive training programs, regular feedback loops, and dedicated resources. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the integral role that strong partnerships play in achieving operational excellence and business growth.
Take the Lead
Where
International 8-9
2:00 PM - 2:45 PM
The Science of Site Selection
By Austin Capoferi President | Next Brands, Carl Comeaux CEO | Crust Pizza, Jennifer Dodd CEO | Main Squeeze Juice Co., Basil Kazepis National Vice President of Development & Construction | Little Caesars, Jack Mashini Co-founder and Franchisor | Wing Snob, Rowena Neelakantan Senior Manager, Strategic Market Planning | Papa Johns, Chris Newman SVP of Real Estate | GoTo Foods, Erin Snyder Vice President of Franchise Development | Handel’s Ice Cream
No matter what changes in this industry, finding the right location will always separate the brands that thrive from those that operate uphill from day one.
Fast Casual, Franchising, and the Journey to Growth
We’ll gather industry leaders to offer their insight on what it takes to foster a top-down culture that everybody buys into. Serving up hospitality starts here.
Labor, Culture, and the Employee Value Proposition
Where
International 4-5
3:15 PM - 4:00 PM
Finding the Digital-Native Restaurant Consumer
By Ashley Mitchell VP of Marketing | East Coast Wings + Grill and Sammy’s Sliders, Shanna Prevé Vice President of Enterprise Sales and Business Development | DoorDash, Megumi Robinson VP of Services | Belle Communication, Devin Schneider Director of Brand Development | Jeremiah’s Italian Ice, Lauren Selman (Moderator) VP Operations | IFBTA, Peter Wiley Co-Founder and Director of Marketing | Hot Head Burritos
We often hear in this industry about meeting the customer where they are, when they are, and how they want to be met. Is that a mythical ask, or are there solutions today available to serve that demand?
Where
International 6-7
3:15 PM - 4:00 PM
Potbelly Sandwich Works Fireside Chat, with CEO Bob Wright
Few things in this industry are more difficult than going from Store 1 to Store 2. Hear from some brands that started as a dream and got off the ground running, the stories behind the process, and what it took to scale beyond an idea.
Fast Casual, Franchising, and the Journey to Growth
Where
International 8-9
4:00 PM - 4:15 PM
Networking Break
Where
Marquis Ballroom
4:15 PM - 5:00 PM
Closing Keynote
By Jonathan Neman Chief Executive Officer + Co-Founder | sweetgreen
Keynote
Where
Imperial Ballroom
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
After Party
The event isn’t quite over until you’ve had the after party! Join us for the official after party where we’ll unwind in style. Enjoy drinks, music, and great company as we toast to a successful event and forge new connections.