CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Promotions and discounts are everywhere in fast food right now, but are the value meals worth the value for restaurants?
Bargains are bringing in new customers, but it’s not enough to keep them.
Data from Revenue Management Solutions shows fast-food traffic was down this year compared to last year, according to the Wall Street Journal, and that’s expected to continue.
With traffic down and restaurant prices up 30% since before the pandemic, per Labor Department data analyzed by Wall Street Journal, chains are training to win back customers by offering value deals and promotions.
While it’s offering a short-term boost, it’s not necessarily making the dent restaurants need.
The promotions are luring diners but they’re not always boosting profits or building reliability.
The challenge? Turning deal-seekers into loyal customers.
Experts say the key is balancing value with creativity. That could mean things like app rewards, limited-time menu items, or unique collaborations that keep customers coming back, not just chasing discounts.