Coffee & QSR

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.

From McDonald’s Extra Value Meals to Pizza Hut’s $2 Tuesdays and Dairy Queen’s Free Cone Day, the latest foot traffic data reveals what types of QSR promotions still move the needle in 2025.

Black Rock Coffee’s $1.32B IPO underscores its rapid expansion, affluent customer base, and similarities to Dutch Bros’ trajectory. With visits up 226% since 2019 and a target of 1,000 stores by 2035, the chain’s strategy highlights significant growth potential in new markets.

Q2 2025 restaurant trends highlight a cautious consumer. QSRs and fast casuals face headwinds as diners trade down to cheaper options, while casual dining brands like Chili’s and Applebee’s outperform with value-driven promotions and bundled meals.

Coffee, chicken, and Mexican-inspired chains stand out as 2025’s QSR growth leaders, though August softness signals the need for strategic discipline.

Starbucks’ 2025 Pumpkin Spice Latte launch once again fueled a nationwide traffic surge, reaffirming its enduring cultural and financial impact. Competitors like Dunkin’ and Dutch Bros. lag behind, underscoring Starbucks’ unrivaled mastery in seasonal LTO strategy.

CAVA and Sweetgreen saw major visit growth in Q2 2025, but their expansion philosophies differ. See the data comparing CAVA's market depth to Sweetgreen's national breadth.

Find out how leading QSR players Yum! Brands, RBI, and Wendy’s performed in Q2 2025.