The #1 Burger in the Universe! Habit Burger Crushes the Burger Wars

Shannon shares her story from filing papers at her father’s pediatric office to leading one of the fastest-growing brands in the quick-service restaurant industry. Shannon talks about Habit Burger’s unique approach to consistency, innovation, and customer loyalty and the brands creative campaigns, how AI is shaping the future of their operations and, of course, award-winning burgers.

Key Takeaways:
• Habit Burger has claimed the title of "Best Burger in America" from USA Today, "Best Chicken Sandwich" from Daily Meal, and "#1 Quick Service Side"
• Habit Burger reignited the "better burger wars" by taking out billboards near In-N-Out locations congratulating them on being "#2." The tongue-in-cheek campaign created buzz on social media and further amplified Habit’s win.
• As part of Yum! Brands, Habit Burger leverages resources like shared test kitchens and purchasing power while maintaining its unique identity as a cook-to-order brand.
• Habit Burger has kiosks in 100% of its stores, with strategic placement on counters to increase usage and accuracy.
• With over 40% of sales now coming from digital platforms, Habit Burger’s pivot from dine-in dominance pre-COVID to meeting modern demands is a testament to its adaptability and customer focus.
• Habit Burger’s goal is to "meet guests where they are," whether it’s through in-store dining, takeout, or delivery.
• Hot Takes: Shannon shares her thoughts on the California minimum wage increase, AI-powered drive-throughs, and Instagram-inspired dishes. She discusses AI’s role in enhancing drive-through operations, improving accuracy, and supporting team efficiency.

Thank you for tuning in to Hospitality Hangout, a podcast by Branded Hospitality Ventures. We’ll see you next time as we explore more stories of innovation, authenticity, and leadership—continuing to bring you the conversations shaping the hospitality industry’s future.

Restaurant Transformation , Hospitality Strategies , Brand Experience , Hospitality Insiders , Hospitality Stories , Hospitality trends , Success in hospitality , hospitality insights , hospitality success , hospitality , connecting players , funny food stories , hospitality insiders , success in hospitality , hospitality stories . hospitality podcast, Custom business solutions, restaurant technology, restaurant promotions, restaurant ownership, culinary topics, food customs

Episode Credits:

• Sponsored by: DirecTV
• Produced by: Branded Hospitality Media
• Hosted by: Michael Schatzberg, JImmy Frischling
• Producer: Julie Zucker
• Creative Director: Adam Levine
• Show Runner: Drewe Raimi
• Post Production: GrodMedia

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