[Earnings Updates] QSR expansion and digital innovation drive growth despite geopolitcal challenges

Amandine Dayre
Published on
March 4, 2025

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So, how did the QSR industry perform in Q4 2024?

🟢 Revenue Growth: Most restaurant brands saw moderate-to-strong revenue growth in 2024, supported by pricing adjustments, digital expansion, and store openings. Brands like Wingstop (+36.8%) and Shake Shack (+14.8%) capitalized on consumer demand, while Americana faced a -9% revenue decline due to geopolitical challenges.

🟢 Profitability: Despite a challenging macroeconomic environment, some brands implemented menu price increases, cost-cutting measures, and operational efficiencies to protect margins. McDonald’s and Shake Shack improved margins through higher franchise mix and AI-driven efficiencies.

🟡 Market dynamics: The macroeconomic environment remained volatile. While digital engagement and loyalty programs boosted traffic, lower-income consumers cut back on discretionary dining, impacting volume. Geopolitical issues also created challenges, particularly for brands operating in the Middle East.

🟢 Growth outlook: 2025 revenue growth is expected to remain positive, driven by aggressive store expansion, digital transformation, and increased menu innovation. McDonald’s plans 2,200 new restaurant openings, Yum China aims for 1,600-1,800, and Wingstop projects 14-15% unit growth.

🟡 Profitability outlook: Profitability remains uncertain as inflationary pressures persist. Companies are focusing on cost efficiencies, AI-driven automation, and pricing strategies to sustain margins. However, the impact of rising labor costs and commodity inflation may limit margin expansion.

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