By Amy Hom COO | Barcelona Wine Bar, Sheri Miksa 5X CEO/Pres. (BIBIBOP, Boneheads, Mazzio's, Robeks, Rubio's) | GLEAM Network
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)
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
Get ready to mix and mingle at the welcome reception! We’re serving up delicious snacks, refreshing drinks, and great company – the perfect ingredients for kicking off the QSR Evolution conference. Come ready to connect with fellow restaurant industry professionals in a relaxed setting and let the good times flow!
Future-Proofing QSR: How Brands Are Engaging Next-Gen Customers and Team Members
By Jack Hinchliffe CMO | Habit Burger & Grill, Anna Faktorovich VP of Brand Management | KFC U.S., Neha DK Sr. Director of Marketing | Pizza Hut Global, Amy Durini CMO | Taco Bell International
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 Tech-Enabled Hospitality Can Empower Your Team
The heart of exceptional dining lies in the hospitality your team delivers, but with increasing demands and challenges, empowering staff to excel has become more complex than ever. In this dynamic presentation, Food Futurist Liz Moskow will explore how technology can revolutionize front-of-house operations, freeing your team to focus on what they do best—delivering outstanding service and unforgettable guest experiences.
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 VP, Menu Innovation | Ascent Hospitality Management (Perkins and Huddle House), 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.
Women in Restaurant Leadership Networking Reception: Murder Mystery
Get ready for a one-of-a-kind evening of connection, creativity, and community at the Women in Restaurant Leadership networking reception—this time, with a twist. We’re turning the traditional networking event on its head with a full-blown murder mystery experience, complete with costumes, props, and a cast of suspicious (but very charming) characters. It’s an immersive night of intrigue and empowerment, where meaningful conversations meet mysterious plotlines—and maybe even a ghost or two.
It’s an experience that would be a crime to miss out on!
Dress code: Casual attire with a Roaring '20s twist encouraged.
Where
International ABC
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Networking Reception
After a full day of learning, get ready to connect with the best in the industry for a night of networking. Enjoy food and drinks with colleagues and friends old and new.
Where
Marquis Ballroom
8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Speakeasy Soiree
Step back in time for a Speakeasy Soirée, where the drinks are flowing, the jazz is jumping, and the conversations come easy. It’s a night of vintage vibes, good company, and a little 1920s mischief—no secret password required.
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
After Party
The event isn’t quite over until you’ve had the after party! Join us for the official after party where we’ll unwind in style. Enjoy drinks, music, and great company as we toast to a successful event and forge new connections.