The following is a snapshot of US Quick-Service Restaurant (QSR) trends for April 2025.

Note: Trends may vary slightly depending on data availability at the time of reporting.

Overview

In April 2025, U.S. QSR traffic declined by -1.7% YOY, compared to April 2024, which saw a decline of -0.8% YOY. While fast-food traffic started strong in January, it’s been steadily falling month by month ever since, signaling growing consumer caution or shifts in dining behaviors.

According to Revenue Management Solutions’ Q1 consumer survey, 40% of U.S. diners said they’re spending less of their disposable income on restaurants. Instead, many are turning to grocery stores: 1 in 4 consumers reported shopping there more often, with nearly 40% citing better value for money.

Average fast-food price increases in April rose +2.0% YOY, holding steady with recent inflation trends.

Breakdown of Monthly QSR Performance Trends

When comparing fast-food performance trends YOY (April 2025 to April 2024):

• Net sales increased +0.5% YOY.
• Traffic is down -1.7% YOY.
• Average check is up +2.1% YOY.
• Quantity per transaction (QPT) stayed marginally the same, +0.2% YOY.
• Average price increased +2.0% YOY.

QSR Traffic by Daypart

• Breakfast traffic decreased by -9.1% YOY.
• Lunch traffic is also slowing down, decreasing -3.1% compared to April of 2024.
• Dinner traffic increased by +1.2% YOY, highlighting the evening daypart as a continued stronghold for QSR dining.

Strategies for Navigating Shifting Daypart Trends

The latest data shows a continued shift in consumer behavior, especially at breakfast and lunch. Here are key strategies for restaurant operators:

1. Revamp Lunch Menus: With slowing lunch traffic, focus on value and convenience. Consider offering meal combos, limited-time offers or loyalty perks that incentivize lunch visits. Also, think about catering to the growing demand for lighter, snack-sized meals, which can be more cost-effective and easier to consume on the go.
   
2. Strengthen Digital Ordering: Make sure your mobile app, website and delivery platforms are seamless and easy to use, as customers increasingly expect speed, value and convenience. A well-designed digital experience not only captures more takeout and delivery demand but also encourages upsells, add-ons and higher average checks through smart prompts and personalization.
   
3. Stay Flexible: Continuously monitor trends, especially as inflation and economic pressures continue. Be flexible and ready to adjust pricing and menu offerings as needed to meet customer expectations.

By focusing on convenience and value, fast-food operators can successfully navigate shifting trends and drive profitability. Get in touch with our expert team today for tailored strategies to grow your QSR brand!

Consultant’s Corner

Restaurant Growth in 2025 Starts with Clarity, Not Guesswork

The Restaurant Leadership Conference 2025 highlighted critical strategies for restaurant growth, from adapting to changing customer behaviors to optimizing franchise financials. Bob Donofrio, RMS Chief Client Officer, discussed how brands must innovate menus, leverage digital channels, and enhance financial visibility to stay competitive. Read the full blog post to learn how to increase your restaurant’s growth and profitability.