Roger Lee recently spoke with QSR Magazine about the quick-service restaurant industry's trajectory heading into 2025, reflecting on how technological advancements and economic pressures shaped 2024.
"2024 was a transformative year for the quick-service restaurant industry, marked by both challenges and innovation," Lee tells QSR. "We saw widespread adoption of technology solutions, from AI and automation to enhanced data analytics, all aimed at improving operational efficiency while delivering better customer experiences. However, the economic landscape remained challenging, with persistent labor market constraints and high interest rates creating headwinds for growth and expansion."
Looking ahead, Lee sees customer value expectations evolving alongside technological innovation. "Back-of-house innovation, particularly in the realm of data analytics, is transforming how restaurants operate," he continues. "These systems are revolutionizing inventory management and demand forecasting, allowing restaurants to make more informed decisions based on customer behavior patterns."
