QSR Tech Expectations Rise as Nearly All Consumers Weigh Digital Experience

Technology is playing an increasingly important role in where consumers choose to eat, but new research from Canopy suggests quick-service restaurants have little room for error as digital touchpoints become more embedded in the customer experience.

Canopy’s 2026 Restaurant Tech Report: Add Sauce, Hold the Friction, based on a survey of 1,007 US consumers, found that technology now influences dining choices for 94% of respondents, up from 80% in 2025. At the same time, 37% said they have abandoned an order because...

Arby’s Brings Back Steak Nuggets With Push Across Loyalty, Sports and Social

Arby’s is supporting the limited-time return of its Steak Nuggets with a mix of influencer content, a loyalty promotion and football-related activations.

The restaurant chain recently brought back the menu item, which features bite-sized pieces of 100% steak. The return is being supported by activity across social media and sports partnerships, including appearances tied to both college and professional football.

As part of its social media efforts, Arby’s partnered with reality TV star, model and influencer Caleb McDaniel on content...

Kroger Spotlights E-commerce Growth with Online Deal Days Push

The Kroger Co. is leaning further into e-commerce as it launches its “Online Deal Days” promotion, pairing limited-time discounts with new data showing continued consumer demand for speed, value and convenience in online grocery shopping.

Running from April 22 through May 5, the event is aimed at driving digital engagement across Pickup and Delivery. Offers include $30 off a first Pickup or Delivery order of $75 or more, free delivery on orders over $50, and digital discounts on...

Pizza Hut Introduces New Hut Rewards, Evolving Loyalty into a Membership that Delivers 

Pizza Hut just relaunched its Hut Rewards program, evolving it into a new, next-generation membership designed to deliver ongoing value, exclusive access and new experiences for customers.

At a time when consumers are looking for more than traditional points programs, Hut Rewards is designed to consistently pay off by bringing more under one roof. The program is created to evolve over time, giving members more ways to earn points on eligible purchases, reach rewards faster through challenges and bonus opportunities, explore an expanded...

Subway® Issuing 1040 "Refunds" For Tax Day

Filing 1040 tax forms is no fun. But 1,040 free footlongs? That's a Tax Day refund Americans can get behind! With everyday costs and living expenses seemingly rising by the day, even taxpayers lucky enough to get a refund from the IRS this year may see it disappear quickly.

That's why Subway is offering Sub Club members more than a free footlong with the purchase of another footlong through April 28 on Subway.com and the Subway app*. 1,040 randomly selected members who use...

Retailers and Platforms Unveil Fuel Relief for Consumers and Drivers

According to Expana’s report Friday on the Middle East conflict, the ongoing closure of the Strait of Hormuz continues to disrupt the movement of oil and fertilizer, driving up energy costs worldwide. 

In response, some companies are rolling out temporary measures intended to help consumers and workers manage higher fuel costs.

Subway, for example, will offer Sub Club members a free footlong sandwich with the purchase of another footlong from April 1 through April 28 at participating locations.

The deal is valid for orders placed...