There’s going to be a radical change this year.
McDonald’s CEO Chris Kempczinski shared his top three predictions for trends in the quick-service restaurant industry this year, focusing on food and technology.
In a video posted on Instagram, Kempczinski highlighted an increased demand for protein as a major trend. He explained, “Protein is going to be a big focus, with more people aiming to boost their protein intake. It’s a hot topic right now,” noting that McDonald’s is well-positioned with its offerings like burgers, chicken, and fish.
Kempczinski also pointed to the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the industry. “AI has many potential applications in our business,” he said. “We have teams exploring how AI can enhance customer experience and improve the work environment for our crew members.” McDonald’s has already partnered with companies like Google and Cognizant to integrate AI and cloud technologies into its operations.
The final trend Kempczinski mentioned was an increase in unique sauces. He predicted that “spicy options will remain popular, and you might see more sweet flavors, like honey.” Sauces, according to Kempczinski, will be a big focus in 2025. McDonald’s has previously introduced limited-time sauces like garlic dipping sauce, Sweet & Spicy Jam, and Mambo Sauce.
Kempczinski concluded by promising to revisit his predictions in a year to see how accurate they were. In 2024, McDonald’s generated $25.9 billion in revenue, with a net income of $8.2 billion.
