Guest Contributors

In Q3 2025, Yum! Brands outperformed the broader QSR category, led by Taco Bell’s continued strength and recoveries at KFC and Pizza Hut. Meanwhile, Restaurant Brands International (RBI) saw overall declines, though Firehouse Subs’ steady visit growth stood out as a bright spot.

Shake Shack and Wingstop’s Q3 2025 data reveals diverging trends in the fast-casual sector. Shake Shack’s growth stems from rapid expansion despite flat same-store traffic, while Wingstop faces tougher comps and digital shifts. Promotions remain key traffic drivers.

The coffee segment grew 1.4% YoY in Q3 2025, outperforming broader QSR declines. Starbucks and Dunkin’ saw modest visit drops, Dutch Bros continued to expand, and rising chains like 7 Brew, Better Buzz, Foxtail Coffee, and Black Rock Coffee Bar fueled much of the category’s momentum.

Amid economic headwinds, Texas Roadhouse and Chili’s are outperforming full-service peers. Location analytics show both brands sustaining traffic through strong value, efficiency, and higher-income appeal — key factors for continued growth.

Early-October sales events from major retailers aimed to capture value-seeking consumers across channels. While in-store traffic softened, e-commerce activity surged, highlighting how early promotions now set the stage for holiday demand both online and in-store.

Holiday 2025 reveals a split in consumer behavior. Affluent shoppers drive luxury growth, while budget-conscious consumers seek deals. Retail success depends on timing, precision, and understanding shifting priorities.‍

In Q3 2025, McDonald’s and Chipotle contended with slowing traffic and sector-wide dining headwinds. McDonald’s faced visit declines despite promotions, while Chipotle relied on expansion to sustain growth. Both chains enter Q4 balancing momentum against mounting pressure.

Placer.ai data shows U.S. manufacturing foot traffic remained below 2024 levels in September, led by sharp declines in autos after the Novelis fire. Despite slight stabilization late in the month, AI-driven automation and shifting production patterns suggest continued industrial caution heading into Q4.