Fast Casual Nation

Fast casual's global growth, innovation, labor shifts: A deep dive

Discover how beverage innovation —from craft mocktails to full bars — is reshaping the segment while fast casual continues to outperform both QSR and casual dining in same-store sales.

May 22, 2025

Join Paul Barron and Cherryh Cansler as they explore fast casual's global expansion with brands like Teriyaki Madness and Mason's Famous Lobster making international debuts. Discover how beverage innovation —from craft mocktails to full bars — is reshaping the segment while fast casual continues to outperform both QSR and casual dining in same-store sales.

The hosts analyze Chili's strategic positioning against QSR, discuss the $20+ hourly wages transforming restaurant labor markets, and preview FastCasual.com's 10th anniversary Top 100 Gala plus blockchain payment solutions that could eliminate processing fees for operators.