QSR Industry: Fast Facts Supporting Its Undeniable Growth

The QSR industry, also known as the quick service restaurant industry, specializes in providing fast and convenient food options to customers. QSRs are often franchises and characterized by their fast service, limited menu options, and affordable price points. But QSR is no longer just the fast food burger joints we are used to. Today, QSR franchises can include shops that offer healthier options, ethnic cuisine, sandwiches, salads, coffee, and smoothies. For the savvy investor, these expanded concepts mean greater entrepreneurial opportunities.

The Popularity of Quick Service

Quick service ideas are growing, however the QSR meaning, and characteristics are similar across the board distinguishing them from other types of dining establishments. QSRs often have a focus on takeout and drive-thru service in addition to online and mobile ordering platforms. They cater to customers looking for quick meals, on-the-go dining, and convenience. QSRs typically have a layout designed for speed and efficiency. The interior is often designed to accommodate a high volume of customers, with counter service, self-service beverage stations, and limited seating areas to prioritize fast turnover.

With their efficient operational models, standardized recipes and processes, and recognizable brands, QSRs have become an integral part of the food service industry and are often a popular choice for busy consumers seeking affordable and fast food options.

High Performing During the Pandemic

The QSR model proved its market strength during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. When some restaurants were scrambling and closing, QSR’s were thriving. Reason is, QSR’s already had a strong existing infrastructure and systems in place to facilitate takeout and delivery services. During the pandemic, when dine-in options were restricted or limited, QSRs pivoted operations to focus on alternatives. Offering contactless takeout, drive-thru, and delivery options allowed them to continue serving customers while adhering to health and safety guidelines. QSR’s were poised to embrace seemingly overnight technology changes by offering mobile apps and online ordering and payment platforms.

Here’s Why You Should Enter This Market

If you’re thinking about taking a bite into the QSR industry, stats from IBISWorld show the market is strong for investments. The fast food industry in the U.S. is worth $362.3 billion and is growing at a rate of about 3%. Experts attribute this growth to several factors:

  • More people are consuming fast food because they can afford to—globally there is a rise in disposable income.
  • With more people working, there is less time available for meal preparation at home.
  • We are an on-the-go society, hungry for convenient food offerings.

As mentioned earlier, the QSR sector is also expanding due to consumer demand for healthier food options. The Health and Wellness Foods market in the U.S. is estimated at $262.4 billion—globally it’s expected to reach $1.6 trillion by 2030.

SoBol: A Fruitful Blend

When you combine the QSR model with increased consumer demand for healthy eating you create an attractive investment with a competitive advantage—and that’s why we’re growing at SoBol. We’re an acai bowl and smoothie café franchise with a fast casual feel appealing to folks who have special dietary needs or for those who simply like eating a refreshing and delicious meal that just happens to be healthy.

As a QSR franchise, we keep things uncomplicated. Our menu is simple but customizable, our ingredients are fresh and natural, and our operations are streamlined. But what we want you to know as a prospective franchise owner is what sets us apart in the QSR industry. Our strength is the community we build including our franchise owners and customers. Our goal is to make amazing food and be a positive force in the communities we serve. Every time someone comes into one of our restaurants, we want them to leave with a smile and loving the delicious food they ordered.

Interested in joining the SoBol family? We’re always looking for folks who have a passion for a healthier lifestyle and want to share it in their community by introducing a SoBol café. If you have an understanding of franchising, retail, QSR, marketing, or real-estate development—that’s always a plus. We provide comprehensive training and support and are dedicated to your success as a franchise owner.

If this sounds like what you’ve been looking for, let’s get started. Simply fill out our form and we’ll be in touch.