Introducing the first WiRL Workshop! This exclusive lunch-and-learn, presented in partnership with LEAD, GLEAM, and Full Course, is designed to fuel your leadership journey with four engaging, no-fluff workshop sessions. We’re diving into leadership development, financial acumen, and mentorship, with a fourth session still under wraps (but we promise, it’ll be worth the wait). Plus, lunch! (additional fee)
Franchisee Workshop - Ways of the Wealthy Franchisee: Unlocking the Human Edge Behind Operational Excellence
By Nadeem Bajwa Cofounder and CEO | Bajco Group (Papa Johns franchisee), Lela Dinakaran Second-Generation Bojangles Franchise | Georgia Foods, Scott Greenberg Author and Keynote Speaker, Ryan O’Malley Franchisee | Wendy’s of Bowling Green, Inc., Kajal Patel CEO | Hena Group (Buffalo Wild Wings and Dunkin’ franchisee), Mandy Ristic Franchisee, Operating Partner | OM Group (Dunkin’, Baskin-Robbins, QDOBA, Smoothie King, Jimmy John’s)
What sets top-performing franchisees apart isn’t just what they do—it’s how they think. In this high-energy session, franchise performance expert and author of “The Wealthy Franchisee,” Scott Greenberg, will unpack the inner game of success in the quick-service restaurant industry. Drawing from years of research and real-world franchise experience, Scott will reveal the mindset, habits, and leadership traits that separate wealthy franchisees from the rest. (additional fee)
Join us and be welcomed to Atlanta and its rich restaurant history with one of the brands that started it all—Chick-fil-A. CEO Andrew Cathy will share his journey and tales growing up in the iconic chain, and how he’s now fostering and nurturing a people-first culture that continues to lead with heart and a commitment to best-in-class operations. You’re invited to the intimate conversation and celebration, which will include some light appetizers and drinks, music, and swag drops.
Where
Marquis Ballroom ABCD
6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Welcome Reception: Lights, Camera, Welcome
Step into the spotlight at the QSR Evolution Opening Reception: Lights, Camera, Welcome! Join us on Tuesday evening for a star-studded kick-off featuring signature drinks, tasty bites, and an atmosphere made for networking. Walk the red carpet, strike a pose at our photo backdrop, and connect with fellow restaurant leaders as we roll out the velvet ropes and set the stage for an unforgettable event.
Future-Proofing QSR: How Brands Are Engaging Next-Gen Customers and Team Members
By Neha DK VP Global Marketing & CMO Global Franchise Markets | Pizza Hut, Amy Durini CMO | Taco Bell International, Anna Faktorovich VP of Brand Management | KFC U.S., Jack Hinchliffe CMO | Habit Burger & Grill
Join four leaders from Yum! Brands—the largest restaurant group in the world—as we explore the ever-evolving avenues of guest and team member engagement. How can you meet consumers on their own terms? How do you become a brand synonymous with culture? How do you attract and retain the next generation of QSR team members? This insightful keynote with Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, KFC and Habit Burger & Grill marketing executives will explore these topics and more as we dive into how to evolve your brand overtime and truly connect with the next generation.
Keynote
Where
Imperial Ballroom
9:45 AM - 10:00 AM
Networking Break
Where
Marquis Ballroom
10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
Building Brand Resilience—Strategies for Navigating Economic Shifts
From adapting pricing models and managing supply chain disruptions to enhancing customer loyalty and streamlining operations, experts will share the tools and tactics that keep their brands thriving in uncertain times.
Where
International 1-2
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
Networking Coffee Break
Where
Marquis Ballroom
11:15 AM - 12:00 PM
How Walk-On’s Turns Culture into a Competitive Advantage, with CEO Chris Porcelli
Walk-On’s CEO Chris Porcelli has a diverse background, coming from public accounting and the automotive industry before making the transition to the restaurant industry in 2023. Regardless of the industry, building a team with top talent is critically important to business success. Join us for an insightful session with Porcelli where we discuss how building a culture at the top cascades into Walk-On’s restaurants and positively impacts in-restaurant dining experience for guests.
Where
International 1-2
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Lunch
Where
Marquis Ballroom
1:00 PM - 1:45 PM
Women in Restaurant Leadership: State of the Union
FSR's WiRL platform takes the stage to once again gather insights, advice, and share stories from women leaders around the industry as we look to elevate, educate, and empower.
Where
International 1-2
1:45 PM - 2:00 PM
Networking Break
Where
Marquis Ballroom
2:00 PM - 2:45 PM
Renewing Relevancy in Legacy Brands
By Ahsan Jiva EVP, Strategy and Transformation | Mellow Mushroom, Vicki Hormann Executive Director, Off-Premise | Applebee's, Sam Danley (Moderator) Associate Editor | FSR, QSR, Mindy Armstrong Menu Innovation Executive and NextGen Council Leader, Paul Mangiamele Founder/Chairman & CEO | Legendary Restaurant Brands, Geo Concepcion President & CEO | The Greene Turtle Sports Bar & Grille
Staying relevant in today’s fast-paced dining landscape requires more than nostalgia alone. This panel brings together leaders revitalizing iconic brands who are bridging their storied pasts with modern-day consumer expectations. From reimagining menus and refreshing design to embracing technology and targeting new demographics, panelists will discuss how they are transforming beloved brands into contemporary success stories.
Where
International 1-2
2:45 PM - 3:15 PM
Networking Coffee Break
Where
Marquis Ballroom
3:15 PM - 3:30 PM
Sizzling Insights: The QSR Market Boom
By Caitlin Root VP Customer Experience | Datassential
Discover the latest developments in the QSR sector. From consumer-driven flavor innovations to marketing strategies that captivate new demographics, this session offers a look into the key dynamics that every stakeholder should understand. Uncover practical strategies to enhance your brand’s market position and build customer loyalty.
Step into a world of intrigue at Murder at the Marquis Manor, an unforgettable WiRL networking reception with a mysterious twist.
This isn’t your average cocktail hour. Set in a Victorian manor full of secrets, suspicious characters, and shadowy corners, this immersive murder mystery experience blends community and creativity with costumes, clues, and conversation. Sip a cocktail, follow the trail of hints, and team up with fellow attendees to crack the case—all while building authentic connections with women (and men) across the restaurant industry.
It’s a night of empowerment, playful suspense, and unforgettable moments. Don’t miss your chance to sleuth, sip, and socialize—WiRL-style.
Sponsored by:
Where
International ABC
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Networking Reception: Sunset Social: Luau Night
Trade your conference badge for a lei and unwind at Sunset Social: Luau Night. After a packed day of sessions, join your fellow attendees for a relaxed and festive evening filled with island vibes, tropical bites and upbeat rhythms from a live steel drum band. This is your chance to kick back, enjoy the open bar and heavy appetizers, and connect with peers in a vibrant, tiki-inspired setting.
Come for the conversation, stay for the music, and soak up the feel-good energy of this can’t-miss networking night.
Where
Marquis Ballroom
8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Repeal the Ordinary: A Speakeasy Soiree
Ready to party like it’s 1929? Slip into your finest Roaring ’20s attire and unlock the door with a secret password sent to you via the event app onsite. Step inside this lively speakeasy where jazz fills the air, cocktails flow freely, and every corner invites you to mingle, laugh, and celebrate.
From the first note to the last sip, this immersive evening promises vintage vibes, playful intrigue, and plenty of chances to connect with fellow night owls in style. Don’t miss the chance to make memories that are anything but ordinary.
Sponsored by:
Where
International Ballroom
7:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Registration
Where
Marquis Registration 1
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Breakfast
Where
Marquis Ballroom
9:00 AM - 9:45 AM
Inspire Brands Keynote
By Kate Jaspon Chief Financial Officer | Inspire Brands
Keynote
Where
Imperial Ballroom
9:45 AM - 10:00 AM
Networking Break
Where
Marquis Ballroom
10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
Engaging and Retaining Talent in a High-Turnover Industry
This panel brings together innovative operators and talent experts to discuss effective strategies for creating a workplace culture that not only attracts top talent, but empowers employees to thrive in their roles and builds meaningful career pathways.
Where
International 1-2
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
Networking Coffee Break
Where
Marquis Ballroom
11:15 AM - 12:00 PM
Ozempic's Impact and the Rise of Health on the Menu
What does the future hold for full-service menus in a world increasingly focused on health? With medications like Ozempic driving a trend toward smaller appetites, this session will examine the rise of smaller portions, tapas-style offerings, and nutrient-packed dishes that deliver on flavor while addressing shifting dining habits. Learn how to transform these challenges into opportunities to drive innovation, increase check averages, and create memorable dining experiences. Experts will discuss incorporating health trends into core menu offerings, navigating sourcing challenges, and marketing healthier options without alienating traditional diners.
From the rise of spirit-free cocktails and local brews to over-the-top fiery presentations, full-service restaurants are revolutionizing their beverage programs to keep pace with evolving consumer preferences.
Learn how to decode your data and effectively harness analytics to make smarter and more informed decisions across all facets of your restaurant, from menu engineering and optimizing labor schedules to customer preferences and loyalty programs. Panelists will discuss real-world case studies, actionable insights, and the latest technologies reshaping how restaurants operate.
Where
International 1-2
4:00 PM - 4:15 PM
Networking Break
Where
Marquis Ballroom
4:15 PM - 5:00 PM
Closing Keynote
By Jonathan Neman Chief Executive Officer + Co-Founder | sweetgreen
Keynote
Where
Imperial Ballroom
6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Sips in the Sky
The night isn’t over until Sips in the Sky—our official after party with a view. Join us on the Skyline Terrace to unwind and celebrate all the great connections and moments from the event. Sip on refreshing drinks, enjoy tasty appetizers, and relax to the sounds of live acoustic music as the sun sets and the city lights come alive. It’s the perfect way to toast a successful day and make new friends in a relaxed, stylish atmosphere.