The Fast-Casual and QSR Franchise Industry in 2021

If you’re looking for the right franchise development opportunity, the QSR (quick-service restaurant) industry is a great place to start. QSR franchises like Jack in the Box have been growing in popularity for years, and the 2020 pandemic increased demand for our services. Here, learn about why now is a great time to invest in this growing industry.

The Increased Demand for Drive-Thru

The 2020 pandemic changed the way many businesses operate, and one service that became especially valuable was drive-thru. Even while many businesses were forced to close, many drive-thru restaurants stayed open, allowing customers a way to enjoy their favorite meals while socially distancing. CNBC reports that “By December, drive-thru lanes accounted for 44% of off-premise orders across the entire restaurant industry, according to the NPD Group.”

What’s more, this trend is likely here to stay: 

“I think as people get more vaccinated, drive-thru ordering will go down some, but I don’t think it will go down to previous levels because this heightened awareness of germs is here to stay and some people are just used to doing things differently now,” said Lisa van Kesteren, CEO of SeeLevel HX, which conducts an annual study of drive-thru lane service.

This type of feedback is great news for Jack in the Box QSR franchisees – we pioneered the use of drive-thru in QSR back in 1951. Since then, we’ve continued to innovate in the space. Today, ours are some of the fastest and most efficient drive-thrus around, and we’re continuously investing in research and development to keep it that way.

A Growing Industry

The QSR industry has been growing for years and making a quick comeback post-pandemic. With a value of nearly $282 billion and counting, there is plenty of opportunity for new restaurants to set up shop. There’s no doubt that Americans today value convenience, and QSR restaurant franchises like Jack in the Box allow them to enjoy great meals without any hassle.

Although Americans have been more health-conscious, everyone loves to indulge, and Jack in the Box specializes in both. We were the first brand to offer an on-the-go salad, and we still offer some of the most popular light options around – check out our Chicken Fajita Pita and Chicken Club Salad. However, we also offer craveable, indulgent options for customers who want to treat themselves, like our Spicy Nacho Chicken Sandwich Munchie Meal.

Jack in the Box has never discriminated against when it comes to cravings and has one of the most versatile and expansive menus in QSR. As the industry continues to grow, franchisees can count on us to keep our menu ahead of the curve. 

Contact Jack in the Box today to learn more about our plans for 2021 and beyond.