2026 QSR Webinars
Title: Inside the Annual QSR Drive Thru Report
Date: January 13, 2026
Abstract:
Drive-thru has long been the backbone of the quick-service restaurant industry, driving up to 70 percent (and beyond) of sales for some top brands and shaping consumer expectations. In this webinar, we’ll explore the latest innovations, challenges, and opportunities revealed from our annual QSR Drive Thru Report with partner Intouch Insight. From speed and accuracy to hospitality and personalization, attendees will gain a comprehensive look at how the drive-thru is evolving to meet the demands of today’s customers.
Industry experts will share insights on the role of technology—including AI order-taking, digital menu boards, and predictive analytics—in improving efficiency and guest experience. The session will also cover KPIs, design innovations, and how operators are balancing labor costs with service quality.
Whether you’re a restaurant operator, franchisee, or supplier, this webinar will equip you with actionable takeaways to improve drive-thru performance. Attendees will walk away with a clearer understanding of how to align operational excellence with customer expectations, and how the future of drive-thru service is shaping the overall QSR experience.
Learning Objectives:
- Explore the latest innovations in drive-thru technology, including AI order-taking, digital menu boards, and tools that enhance speed, accuracy, and guest personalization.
- Gain insights into staffing and operations strategies that balance labor costs with efficiency while maintaining hospitality and service quality at the drive-thru.
- Learn how top QSR brands are reimagining drive-thru design and execution, with real-world examples that demonstrate how to meet rising consumer expectations and sustain competitive advantage.
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WiRL Webinar
Title: Start the Year Strong: Wellness + Mental Health in Hospitality
Date: January 21, 2026
Abstract:
The restaurant world doesn’t run without its people — but who takes care of the caretakers? Southern Smoke Foundation has become a lifeline for food and beverage workers, offering emergency relief and no-cost mental health counseling across the country. In this session, we’ll explore the unique challenges of wellness in hospitality, break the stigma around asking for help, and share real tools and resources to support yourself and your teams in 2026.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the unique mental health challenges facing restaurant and hospitality professionals.
- Explore practical tools and resources available through organizations like Southern Smoke.
- Develop strategies to foster a culture of wellness and resilience within teams.
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Title: Setting the Pace in Fast Casual
Date: February 10, 2026
Abstract:
A new program to explore our first Fast Casual Pacesetters report, which explore the changing parameters of the industry’s fastest-growing segment. The fast casual segment has consistently been the growth engine of the restaurant industry, blending the speed and convenience of QSR with the quality and innovation of casual dining. This webinar dives into the brands that are redefining expectations for food, service, and experience. Attendees will learn how these top performers are capturing market share, building customer loyalty, and shaping the future of dining.
Industry leaders and analysts will highlight the strategies that set fast casual pacesetters apart—from menu innovation and digital integration to real estate decisions and brand storytelling. The session will also examine how successful operators are responding to evolving consumer demands, including the push for customization, health-forward offerings, and convenience across dine-in, off-premises, and digital channels.
Whether you’re a QSR operator, investor, or supplier, this session will provide actionable insights into what it takes to thrive in a competitive marketplace. With case studies and real-world examples, attendees will walk away with a deeper understanding of how fast casual brands are driving growth, setting trends, and raising the bar for the entire restaurant industry.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the key strategies driving growth among leading fast casual brands, from menu innovation to brand positioning.
- Understand how fast casual leaders respond to shifting consumer expectations, including health-forward offerings, customization, and omnichannel convenience.
- Gain practical insights from real-world case studies that showcase how top performers are raising the bar for the broader restaurant industry.
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WiRL Webinar
Title: Conference Survival Guide: Make the Most of Conferences & Networking
Date: February 17, 2026
Abstract:
Conferences can be game-changers—if you know how to show up. Whether you’re heading into your first big industry event or you’ve been to dozens, this session will give you the tools to maximize your time, grow your connections, and bring back real value. Join leaders from Women of WORTH and the Byte-Sized & Bossy crew to get actionable strategies for networking, planning, follow-up, and leveraging what you learn all year long.
Learning Objectives:
- Prepare for conferences with intentional planning and goal-setting strategies.
- Practice effective networking approaches that build meaningful, lasting connections.
- Implement follow-up systems to turn conference insights and contacts into actionable outcomes.
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WiRL Webinar
Title: Voices of the Future: Celebrating Women’s Leadership in Hospitality
Date:March 31, 2026
Abstract:
For Women’s History Month, we’re honoring the women shaping the future of our industry. Join us for a special conversation with the inaugural WiRL Impact Award winners—Rising Stars, Trailblazers, and Community Champions—who are redefining leadership in restaurants today. Alongside WiRL advisory board members, we’ll explore why investing in equity, mentorship, and the next generation of leaders is critical to building a stronger, more inclusive future.
Learning Objectives:
- Learn from the experiences and stories of the inaugural WiRL Award winners.
- Explore the role of equity, mentorship, and recognition in advancing women leaders.
- Identify actionable ways to support and uplift the next generation of hospitality leadership.
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WiRL Webinar
Title: When Conversations Derail: Mastering Conflict Resolution at Work
Date: April 28, 2026
Abstract:
Even the best teams hit bumps in communication—and knowing how to handle them can make or break your culture. In this session, hospitality leader Elizabeth Meltz will unpack the concept of “switchtracking” and other common pitfalls that derail conversations. You’ll learn practical strategies for navigating tough moments with employees, defusing conflict before it escalates, and creating a workplace where dialogue leads to growth instead of gridlock.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize common communication breakdowns, including “switchtracking,” in workplace conversations.
- Practice conflict resolution techniques that defuse tension and maintain connection.
- Apply strategies for turning challenging conversations into opportunities for clarity, trust, and growth.
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WiRL Webinar
Title: Leadership Through Change: How to Navigate Growth, Reorgs, and Shifts
Date: May 5, 2026
Abstract:
Change is the only constant in hospitality — from expansion to reorganizations to new leadership. This webinar teaches leaders how to lead through change with clarity, compassion, and strategic action.
Learning Objectives:
- Learn how to stay grounded during transitions.
- Understand how to communicate change in a way that builds trust.
- Create a practical plan for guiding teams through uncertainty while keeping performance strong.
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Title: How to Get Noticed by Investors
Date: May 12, 2026
Abstract:
Securing investor interest is one of the most critical steps in fueling growth for restaurant brands—but it’s also one of the most competitive. This webinar offers an insider’s look at what investors are really looking for in today’s market. From concept scalability to financial performance, attendees will gain a clear understanding of the factors that can make or break a brand’s ability to attract capital.
Seasoned investors and QSR leaders will share insights into the metrics, strategies, and positioning that set standout brands apart. Topics will include the importance of unit economics, brand differentiation, leadership credibility, and consumer traction, as well as how to craft a compelling growth narrative. The session will also highlight common red flags that cause investors to walk away—and how brands can address them before stepping into the pitch room.
Whether you’re a growth-minded operator, an emerging brand founder, or part of a franchise leadership team, this webinar will provide actionable advice on building investor-ready strategies. Attendees will walk away with a roadmap for positioning their brand for long-term success and standing out in a crowded QSR landscape.
Learning Objectives:
- Discover the key metrics and brand qualities investors prioritize, from strong unit economics to clear differentiation in the marketplace.
- Learn how to craft a compelling growth story that highlights scalability, leadership strength, and consumer traction.
- Understand common investor red flags and how to proactively address them to improve your chances of securing capital.
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Title: Lessons from QSR’s Young Leaders to Watch
Date: June 2, 2026
Abstract:
The next generation of restaurant leadership is already here—and they’re rewriting the rules of what’s possible. In this special QSR webinar inspired by our annual Young Leaders report, we’re spotlighting the emerging operators, founders, and innovators reshaping quick service from the ground up. These are the leaders defining new growth playbooks, pushing boundaries on tech and operations, and proving fresh thinking can often outperform legacy strategies.
From reimagining labor models and elevating culinary programs to pioneering new ways to scale, these executives represent the bold, ambitious mindset that today’s QSR market demands. You’ll hear firsthand how they solve problems, make decisions, and lead teams with agility—while keeping an eye on long-term brand building.
Whether you’re a seasoned restaurant executive or an emerging leader yourself, this conversation will give you an inside look at what the next era of QSR leadership looks like. Expect actionable insights, candid perspectives, and inspiring stories from the innovators who are already driving change.
Learning Objectives:
How emerging leaders are redefining modern restaurant leadership
Attendees will learn the new traits, decision-making styles, and values shaping the next generation of QSR executives—from data-driven agility to people-first management and cross-functional collaboration.
The innovative strategies young leaders are using to drive growth
Participants will gain insight into how rising operators are approaching expansion, menu development, technology adoption, and operational efficiency in ways that differ from traditional playbooks.
Practical takeaways for building and empowering next-gen talent
Leaders will walk away with actionable ideas to identify, mentor, and elevate high-potential talent within their own organizations, ensuring a strong bench for the future of the brand.
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WiRL Webinar
Title: Career Acceleration: How to Get Promoted Without Burning Out
Date: June 10, 2026
Abstract:
Promotion shouldn’t feel like a sprint – it should feel like a strategic climb. This webinar focuses on how women can build visibility, influence, and results while protecting their wellbeing. The WiRL approach is real, actionable, and designed for the long game.
Learning Objectives:
- Build a promotion roadmap that aligns performance, visibility, and relationships.
- Learn how to communicate your value confidently without self-promotion feeling uncomfortable.
- Understand how to protect your energy and avoid burnout while pursuing growth.
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Title: Inside the QSR Report
Date: August 4, 2026
Abstract:
How do the best of the best in quick service stack up? Each year, QSR’s in-depth Top 50 report is jam-packed with industry-leading analysis, including systemwide sales, average unit volumes, and unit count trends from the biggest chains in America.
In this webinar, we’ll once again take a look behind the numbers, sharing the most interesting stories and insights from the sector’s top players over the past year.
Learning Objectives:
- How fast-food leaders, from McDonald’s to Starbucks to Chick-fil-A, performed last year.
- What growth trends emerged from this year’s data.
- And meet contending chains ready to break through.
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WiRL Webinar
Title: The Power of Your Brand Voice: How to Be Heard in a Noisy Market
Date: August 12, 2026
Abstract:
In hospitality, your voice is your leadership tool. This webinar teaches leaders how to build a brand voice that is clear, confident, and authentic — and how that voice translates into influence, loyalty, and growth.
Learning Objectives:
Define your unique leadership voice and how it shows up in your work.
Learn communication strategies that increase visibility without needing to “perform.”
Build a brand voice that aligns with your values and drives business outcomes.
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Title: Best Franchise Deals
Date: September 15, 2026
Abstract:
Based on our annual blockbuster franchise report, we’ll explore why choosing the right opportunity is one of the most important decisions an operator can make—and not all deals are created equal. This webinar takes a deep dive into what sets the strongest franchise brands apart in a crowded marketplace. Attendees will gain insight into how leading QSR concepts build value for their franchisees through smart growth strategies, supportive systems, and long-term profitability.
Industry experts and franchise executives will share perspectives on the critical factors that define a best-in-class franchise deal. Topics will include startup costs and return on investment, operational support, training programs, marketing resources, and leadership transparency.
Whether you are a prospective franchisee evaluating opportunities or a franchisor seeking to improve your offering, this webinar will provide valuable takeaways. Attendees will walk away with a clear understanding of the elements that make a franchise deal truly stand out—and how to identify opportunities that align with their goals for growth and success.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the core elements of a top franchise deal, including startup costs, ROI potential, and long-term value creation.
- Learn how leading QSR brands support franchisees with training, operational resources, marketing, and leadership accessibility.
- Identify the qualities that set standout franchise opportunities apart, from brand strength to adaptability and innovation.
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WiRL Webinar
Title: High-Performing Teams: Building Accountability Without Being ‘Tough’
Date: September 29, 2026
Abstract:
High performance isn’t about being harsh — it’s about clarity, trust, and standards that people want to meet. This session gives leaders the tools to create accountability systems that lift the team instead of breaking it down.
Learning Objectives:
- Learn how to set expectations clearly and fairly without micromanaging.
- Understand the difference between accountability and punishment in leadership.
- Create a team performance system that builds trust and improves results.
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WiRL Webinar
Title: The Art of Negotiation: Get the Raise, the Role, the Respect
Date: October 13, 2026
Abstract:
Negotiation isn’t just for deals — it’s for women building power and ownership in hospitality. This WiRL webinar equips leaders with the strategies, scripts, and confidence to negotiate for what they deserve — without losing authenticity.
Learning Objectives:
Understand the negotiation mindset that sets high-performing women apart.
- Learn a negotiation framework for salary, title, and role changes.
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Title: Meet QSR’s Franchisee of the Year
Date: November 3, 2026
Abstract:
Learning Objectives:
- Gain first-hand insights from an award-winning operator on the strategies that drive franchise growth and operational excellence.
- Learn how top franchisees balance business performance with culture, people, and community impact.
- Discover practical lessons in leadership and resilience that can be applied to any stage of the franchise journey.
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WiRL Webinar
Title: The Leadership Edge: How to Build Influence
Date: November 18, 2026
Abstract:
Influence isn’t about volume — it’s about authority, clarity, and presence. This WiRL webinar focuses on building influence in a way that feels authentic and sustainable, especially in environments where women are often interrupted, underestimated, or overlooked.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand how influence works in the modern workplace (and what it looks like in hospitality).
- Learn how to command attention with calm authority (without needing to “be louder”).
- Build a toolkit for navigating interruptions, pushback, and skepticism with confidence.
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WiRL Webinar
Title: High-Performing Teams: Building Accountability Without Being ‘Tough’
Date: October 13, 2026
Abstract:
Negotiation isn’t just for deals — it’s for women building power and ownership in hospitality. This WiRL webinar equips leaders with the strategies, scripts, and confidence to negotiate for what they deserve — without losing authenticity.
Learning Objectives:
- Learn how to set expectations clearly and fairly without micromanaging.
- Understand the difference between accountability and punishment in leadership.
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Title: Best Brands to Work For
Date: December 1, 2026
Abstract:
The quick-service restaurant industry is in the midst of a fierce competition—not only for customer loyalty but also for talent. This webinar, Becoming a Best QSR Brand to Work For, explores what it takes to stand out as an employer of choice in a fast-paced, high-turnover environment, with insight from yearly editorial report. Industry leaders will share proven strategies for building cultures that attract, engage, and retain top talent, while simultaneously driving operational excellence and guest satisfaction.
Attendees will gain an inside look at how leading brands are investing in their people through innovative training programs, recognition platforms, career pathways, and leadership development. The discussion will also highlight the growing importance of flexibility, diversity, and employee well-being as key differentiators in shaping the modern restaurant workplace.
Whether you’re an operator, HR leader, or brand executive, this webinar offers actionable insights you can implement to make your organization a great place to work. From redefining frontline roles to embracing technology that enhances—not replaces—human connection, the session will provide a roadmap for creating workplaces where employees feel valued, motivated, and inspired to deliver exceptional experiences.
Learning Objectives:
- How to build a culture of engagement and retention by leveraging recognition programs, career development opportunities, and frontline empowerment.
- Best practices from top QSR employers on training, leadership development, and operational strategies that drive both employee satisfaction and business results.
- Actionable steps to become an employer of choice through flexible scheduling, diversity and inclusion initiatives, and innovative use of technology to support employees.
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WiRL Webinar
Title: 2027 Leadership Forecast: What’s Next for Women in Hospitality
Date: December 16, 2026
Abstract:
The end of the year is a moment for reflection and forward motion. This webinar explores what’s coming in 2027 for women in hospitality — from leadership trends to tech shifts to the new rules of influence.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the top trends shaping hospitality leadership in 2027.
- Learn how to position yourself and your team for what’s next.
- Create a leadership plan that aligns your career with future industry shifts.
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