In a COVID-19 environment, market research group NPD recorded a four percent increase in transactions by quick service restaurant chains during the first week of March compared to the corresponding week in 2019.  The survey reflected performance at 73 QSRs, fast casual, mid-scale and casual dining chains.  Customer transactions at full-service restaurants declined by five percent and mid-scale family dining chain transactions were three percent lower.

David Portalatin of NPD noted, “In these uncertain times we are monitoring trends to detect possible disruption in the market but thus far the QSR sector has been resilient.”  Wendy’s has commenced serving breakfast and has stimulated competition with established chains including McDonald’s, Dunkin’ Brands and Burger King.

Stores with drive-through capability will certainly outperform store-front operations with consumers disinclined to risk exposure to SARS-CoV-2 the virus causing COVID-19.