The QSR Evolution Conference USA is one of the most awaited and influential gatherings for leaders in the quick-service restaurant (QSR) industry. Designed specifically for decision-makers, entrepreneurs, franchisees, and C-suite executives, this event has quickly established itself as the hub of innovation, strategy, and collaboration in the fast-evolving QSR landscape.
If you are part of the foodservice or restaurant business and are aiming to grow, optimize, or reinvent your brand—this is where you need to be.
Venue and Dates
The 2025 edition of the QSR Evolution Conference will take place at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis, located at 265 Peachtree Center Avenue NE, Atlanta, Georgia. This iconic hotel is situated right in the heart of downtown Atlanta, making it extremely accessible by public transit and close to many city attractions.
The event is scheduled from September 2 to September 4, 2025. The conference opens with a welcome reception on the evening of September 2, followed by two full days packed with keynotes, panels, networking opportunities, and breakout sessions on September 3 and 4.
This venue is particularly favored for its high-end amenities, well-appointed conference halls, and accommodation capacity. It offers an ideal environment for high-level discussions and impactful networking.
What to Expect – Agenda and Categories
The QSR Evolution Conference USA brings together some of the most powerful minds and brand leaders from across the fast-food and fast-casual sectors. It dives deep into areas that are crucial to the ongoing evolution of quick-service restaurants.
Key focus areas include:
- Franchising and expansion strategies
- Operational innovation and supply chain optimization
- Drive-thru transformation and digital ordering
- Labor management, hiring trends, and team culture
- Customer experience and loyalty programs
- Menu innovation and sustainability
The event includes a range of sessions:
- Executive keynotes featuring top-level leaders from brands like Chick-fil-A, Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, Whataburger, Dunkin’, Wendy’s, and many others
- Breakout panels tailored to specific interests such as franchising, HR leadership, finance, and marketing
- Workshops and roundtables with actionable tools to implement immediately in your own business
A unique highlight is the WiRL (Women in Restaurant Leadership) growth lunches, as well as late-evening social events like the “Speakeasy Soirée,” giving attendees a perfect blend of business and relaxation.
Who Should Attend
This conference is perfect for:
- Quick-service restaurant owners and operators
- Franchise owners and multi-unit operators
- Restaurant investors and real estate developers
- Tech providers and consultants focused on QSR
- HR and training leaders
- Marketing and brand executives in foodservice
Whether you’re launching your first outlet, managing a growing franchise chain, or investing in food-tech innovation, the QSR Evolution Conference is a learning and networking ground like no other.
Visitor Volume and Brand Participation
Each year, the event attracts a large and diverse crowd. The 2024 edition saw over 1,100 attendees, including many senior executives, founders, and operations experts. For the 2025 edition, the projected footfall is expected to cross 2,000.
Several of the world’s leading QSR brands will have representatives speaking or participating in various ways, making it a goldmine of brand strategy insights and professional opportunities.
Ticket Pricing and Access
The event is designed to be inclusive yet elite, offering various pricing tiers:
- Operators (early bird): $379 (valid until June 13, 2025)
- Regular operator rate: $425
- Late or on-site registration: $799
- Consultants and service providers: Starting from $3,499, depending on access levels and services
Attendees are encouraged to book early, as several premium sessions and workshops come with limited seating.
Accommodation Near the Venue
Staying near the venue is highly recommended for maximizing your experience. Here are some options:
- Atlanta Marriott Marquis (Official Hotel)
Located right at the venue, it offers luxury, convenience, and special room blocks for conference attendees. - Holiday Inn Express & Suites Atlanta Downtown
A budget-friendly option within a short walking distance from the venue, offering modern amenities and breakfast included. - Days Inn by Wyndham Atlanta Downtown
A cost-effective choice with clean, comfortable rooms for those looking to minimize expenses. - Sleep Inn & Suites Downtown Atlanta
A mid-range hotel with easy access to public transportation and less than 10 minutes from the conference location.
Transportation is easy from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, which is approximately 12 miles away. MARTA train stations are nearby, and Uber or Lyft services are widely available.
Benefits of Attending
Access to Industry Leaders:
With keynotes from CEOs and senior leaders from renowned QSR brands, attendees get unfiltered access to the most relevant, modern, and effective strategies driving today’s foodservice businesses.
Tailored Learning Tracks:
You can customize your conference schedule by choosing learning paths based on your business goals—whether it’s franchising, marketing, or tech adoption.
Valuable Networking:
Connect with decision-makers, potential collaborators, investors, and vendors. The event is structured to foster meaningful professional relationships.
Real ROI for Your Business:
Unlike generic food expos, this event focuses purely on growth, operations, and leadership strategies for QSR. You’ll leave with real tools to improve team performance, increase profitability, and future-proof your brand.
Inspiration and Community:
By being part of this exclusive gathering, you also join a supportive and forward-thinking community of leaders who are shaping the future of food.
Pro Tips for First-Time Attendees
- Book your accommodation early—rooms in the main venue sell out fast
- Arrive a day earlier to adjust and explore downtown Atlanta
- Bring business cards, brochures, or digital portfolios if you’re a vendor or service provider
- Wear business-casual attire and comfortable shoes—there’s plenty of walking
- Make time for evening networking sessions, as they often lead to the most valuable conversations
Final Thoughts
The QSR Evolution Conference USA is more than just a conference—it is a masterclass in growth, leadership, and innovation. It’s where the brightest minds in the fast-food world come together to build the future of dining.
If you’re serious about scaling your business, improving your operations, or simply staying ahead of market trends, attending this event is one of the best investments you can make. From strategic insights and trend forecasts to peer learning and deal-making, this is the place where QSR gets redefined.
To learn more, explore the agend