3 Ways QSRs Can Improve Quality, Service, and Reliability to Benefit Their Business and Workforce

The quick-service restaurant (QSR) industry is a highly competitive space in the US, with numerous brands vying for customers' attention and loyalty. While factors like location, menu offerings, and marketing strategies can all influence a QSR's success, there are three key areas that can make or break a business: quality, service, and reliability. In this blog post, we'll explore why these factors are essential for QSRs to prioritize, and offer three specific ways QSRs can improve their quality, service, and reliability to benefit their business and workforce.

Quality

In the QSR industry, quality is essential to ensure customer satisfaction and employee morale. Customers expect consistent quality in their orders, and if they don't receive it, they may take their business elsewhere. Meanwhile, employees who take pride in their work and feel confident in their ability to deliver high-quality products are more likely to feel valued and motivated to do their best work. Here are three ways QSRs can improve quality:

1. Implement systems for consistency: QSRs can ensure consistency in their products by implementing systems like standardized recipes, portion control, and quality checks. This can help prevent errors and ensure that customers receive the same high-quality products every time they visit.
2. Train employees: Investing in employee training can help QSRs improve quality by ensuring that employees have the skills and knowledge needed to deliver high-quality products. This can include training on food safety, cooking techniques, and customer service.
3. Conduct quality checks: Regular quality checks can help QSRs identify and address any issues with their products before they reach customers. This can include checks on food temperature, appearance, and taste.

According to a 2021 report by the National Restaurant Association, "quality of food" is the second most important attribute for customers choosing a quick-service restaurant, with 70% of consumers saying it is very important. Additionally, investing in employee training can have a positive impact on employee satisfaction and retention, with 94% of restaurant employees saying that training is important to them.

Service

In the QSR industry, service is another critical area that can make or break a business. Customers expect fast, friendly service, and QSRs that can't deliver may lose out on potential sales and repeat business. Meanwhile, employees who feel supported and appreciated by their employer are more likely to provide excellent service. Here are three ways QSRs can improve service:

1. Streamline processes: QSRs can improve service by streamlining their processes to reduce wait times and improve efficiency. This can include using technology like mobile ordering or drive-thru apps to make the ordering process faster and more convenient for customers.
2. Train employees in customer service: Investing in customer service training for employees can help QSRs improve service by ensuring that employees have the skills and knowledge needed to provide excellent customer service. This can include training in communication, problem-solving, and conflict resolution.
3. Use customer feedback: QSRs can use customer feedback to identify areas for improvement in their service. This can include conducting surveys, monitoring social media, and responding to customer complaints and suggestions.

According to a report by the National Restaurant Association, "speed of service" is the top attribute for customers choosing a quick-service restaurant, with 80% of consumers saying it is very important. Additionally, investing in employee training can have a positive impact on employee satisfaction and retention, with 73% of employees saying that they are more likely to stay with their employer if they have access to training and development programs.

Reliability

Reliability is a crucial factor in the QSR industry, as customers expect their orders to be accurate and delivered on time. Failure to meet these expectations can result in lost sales and negative reviews, which can harm a QSR's reputation. Meanwhile, employees who feel secure in their jobs and have consistent schedules are more likely to be reliable and productive. Here are three ways QSRs can improve reliability:

1. Invest in technology: QSRs can improve reliability by investing in technology that can help automate processes and reduce the risk of errors. This can include digital ordering systems, inventory management software, and automated food preparation equipment.
2. Develop clear processes and procedures: Clear processes and procedures can help QSRs ensure that orders are prepared accurately and delivered on time. This can include standardizing order-taking procedures, developing clear prep lists, and establishing protocols for handling rush periods.
3. Provide stable work schedules: Providing stable work schedules can help QSRs improve reliability by giving employees consistent hours and reducing the risk of no-shows or late arrivals. This can include implementing scheduling software that allows employees to view their schedules in advance and request time off when needed.

According to a report by the National Restaurant Association, "accuracy of orders" is the third most important attribute for customers choosing a quick-service restaurant, with 68% of consumers saying it is very important. Additionally, offering stable work schedules can have a positive impact on employee satisfaction and retention, with 73% of restaurant employees saying that having a set schedule is important to them, and 53% said that they would be more likely to stay with their employer if they had a more predictable work schedule.

Summary

In conclusion, the QSR industry is a fast-paced and competitive field that requires businesses to prioritize quality, service, and reliability to succeed. By investing in these areas, QSRs can improve customer satisfaction, loyalty, and retention, while also creating a positive work environment for employees.

To improve quality, QSRs can focus on using high-quality ingredients, ensuring consistency across locations, and investing in staff training and development. To improve service, QSRs can streamline processes, train employees in customer service, and use customer feedback to identify areas for improvement. Finally, to improve reliability, QSRs can invest in technology, develop clear processes and procedures, and provide stable work schedules.

Overall, the QSR industry is constantly evolving, and businesses that can adapt to changing customer needs and preferences will be most successful. By prioritizing quality, service, and reliability, QSRs can differentiate themselves from the competition and build a loyal customer base that will keep coming back for more.