With 2020 came the tragedy that various industries had to face. One of the greatly affected were from the food and beverage industry.
Thousands of employees were laid off, and many fast-food chains had to close hundreds of their stores to keep the business afloat. However, these food establishments remain hopeful and anticipate a better year with the start of 2021.
Let's look at some of the big plans these fast food giants have for 2021.
The largest fast food in the world is not one to let any pandemic topple it down. According to CNBC, one of the big plans they have for 2021 is the release of the McPlant. Partnering with Beyond Meat to create the perfect product is McDonald's way to enter the meatless arena to cater to their vegan fans.
According to WIS News, for this year, KFC is focusing on contactless pick-up and digital ordering. Also, KFC plans to create 5,400 jobs across the UK and Ireland and open more than 500 new sites.
Taco Bell is also investing in changing its store format and plans to embrace a more tech-driven approach, according to Business Insider. This is dubbed Taco Bell Go Mobile and will feature smaller units that will be less focused on dining in and more focused on enhancing the drive-thru experience.
The famous pizza chain had a bad run during 2020 and was forced to close several outlets due to the ongoing pandemic. However, this year, Pizza Hut focuses on bouncing back as its UK arm has plans to open 125 locations over three years and create more than 2,000 jobs.
Among the big fast food players, Burger King may have the most elaborate and ambitious plans for 2021. Burger King will soon be rolling out futuristic branches, with the initial stores due to open in Miami, Florida, South America, and the Caribbean. The new stores will include dedicated mobile ordering and curbside pick-up areas, plus contactless options.
Read also: No Time to Cook? Try These Quick And Easy Work-From-Home Lunch Ideas
Surprisingly, Wendy's had an incredible staying power that fueled their journey throughout 2020 amid the pandemic. They were able to win big on the new breakfast menu that was launched last year. In 2021, they are planning to roll out even bigger morning meal sets. They also have plans of reopening stores in the UK starting in Reading, England, in early 2021.
Although this burger joint is relatively new than its rivals, it doesn't stop them from going big this 2021. Currently, Smashburger has more than 340 locations across the U.S. and in several other countries. However, they are planning to open at least 40 new restaurants in 2021.
This Texas-based chain currently has 200 branches, with 42 more due to open in 2021. The firm is also projected to reach between 500 and 600 units by 2030. Its goal this year is to continue to improve its drive-thru service with enhanced cleanliness and faster turnaround. The company also plans to include new digital menus, modern interiors, deli cabinets, and media walls by the end of 2021.
Related article: Here Are the Winners of This Year's (Virtual) National Gingerbread House Competition