2025 QSR Webinars
Title: The Future of QSR Franchising: Top Challenges, Biggest Opportunities
Date: September 23, 2025
Abstract:
Sam Ballas, cofounder of East Coast Wings + Grill and Sammy’s Sliders, and Paul Rocchio, SVP, development and member services at the International Franchise Association, dive into the current and future state of the QSR franchising category.
What are the biggest pain points, current and incoming? What should operators prepare for? And how can you get ahead to win on the front lines? Two of the industry’s leading voices will unroll the playbook in this interactive and engaging program. Bring your questions!
Learning Objectives:
- What regulations you need to look out for in the year ago.
- Best practices from leading franchisees and zors.
- Where growth will come from and where it’s going to be challenged.
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Title: WiRL State of the Union: An Industry Pulse Check
Date: September 30, 2025
Abstract:
Fresh from QSR Evolution and FSR NextGen conference, WiRL thought leaders are reporting back on the moments, innovations, and leadership conversations that stood out most.
Heather McIntyre (Senior Director of Corporate Affairs, Panera Bread + WiRL Advisory Board), Mindy Armstrong (Vice President of Menu Innovation, Tropical Smoothie Café + WiRL Legacy Board), and Kristen Hohl (Executive Vice President of Marketing, SPB Hospitality + WiRL Advisory Board) share their biggest takeaways from the conference floor.
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Title: Ops-Forward: Women Who Make the Machine Work (A WiRL Webinar!)
Date: October 28, 2025
Abstract:
Behind every great restaurant brand is an operations engine that keeps it running smoothly. In this WiRL session, we’re spotlighting the women who make the machine work. Join us for an inside look at how top operations leaders from Firehouse Subs, Playa Bowls, Taco John’s, and Popeyes are shaping strategy, scaling systems, and leading teams with precision and purpose.
From optimizing processes to innovating the guest experience, our panel will share the playbook behind operational excellence—and the lessons they’ve learned along the way. Whether you’re in the field, at the support center, or leading a team of your own, you’ll walk away with actionable insights to strengthen your operational impact and leadership.
Learning Objectives:
Identify key operational strategies used by leading restaurant brands to balance efficiency, quality, and guest experience at scale.
Understand leadership approaches that executives bring to operations, including how they drive excellence, innovation, and culture across large, complex teams.
Apply practical insights from top operators to improve day-to-day execution, strengthen team performance, and navigate challenges in a fast-changing restaurant landscape.
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Title: Know Your Numbers: Financial Fluency for the Next-Level Leader (A WiRL Webinar!)
Date: November 18, 2025
Abstract:
Numbers tell the story of every restaurant — but are you confident in reading that story? This session breaks down the financial skills every leader needs to make smart, strategic decisions. From understanding P&L statements to spotting growth opportunities, you’ll leave with practical tools to strengthen your business acumen and lead with confidence.
Promise: Walk away with the financial fluency every leader needs to make smarter, more confident decisions.
Learning Objectives:
Interpret core financial statements (P&L, balance sheet, cash flow) to assess business health.
Identify opportunities for cost control, revenue growth, and smarter decision-making.
Apply financial insights to strengthen leadership credibility and operational strategy.
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Title: Best Brands to Work For
Date: December 9, 2025
Abstract:
We’ll dive into labor and culture following QSR’s Best Brands to Work For feature. Exclusive insights on how to connect with your employees and become an employer of choice.
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Title: 2025 Vision & Legacy Lab: Reflect, Celebrate, Manifest (A WiRL Webinar!)
Date: December 16, 2025
Abstract:
As the year comes to a close, we’re gathering an inspiring panel of women leaders who made waves in 2025. From career milestones to community impact, they’ll share the stories, lessons, and defining moments that shaped their year. Together, we’ll reflect on what it means to lead with vision, celebrate the power of progress, and spark inspiration for the year ahead.
Promise: Celebrate the wins of 2025 and set bold intentions for the legacy you’ll create in 2026.
Learning Objectives:
Recognize and celebrate key leadership milestones and industry contributions from 2025.
Reflect on personal and professional lessons that can guide future growth.
Create a vision framework for setting meaningful intentions and goals for the year ahead.
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2026 QSR Webinars
January 2026: Inside the Annual Drive Thru Report
February 2026: Setting the Pace in Fast Casual
A new program to explore our first Fast Casual Pacesetters report, which explore the changing parameters of the industry’s fastest-growing segment.
April 2026: How to Get Noticed by Investors
Our yearly financial webinar on what to do to position yourself for an investment.
August 2026: Inside the QSR 50 Report:
Once again, we break the top 50 chains in America by systemwide sales from QSR’s blockbuster report.
September 2026: Best Franchise Deals
November 2026: Meet QSR’s Franchisee of the Year
This year’s Franchisee of the Year takes us inside what makes the company one of the industry’s most successful.
December 2026: Best Brands to Work For