Burger King, Popeyes’ menu and operation changes caused by labor shortage, inflation

Burger King and Popeyes are reportedly expecting more changes in their menu lineup as inflation and labor shortage start to bite. The problem with staffing has been forcing the Restaurant Brands International Inc. (RBI) fast-food brands to offer smaller menu options and reduced comparable in-store sales for the Louisiana fried chicken chain.

As per Food Business News, the chief executive officer of RBI, José E. Cil, said during the company's financial results report last week that the inflation coupled with the ongoing labor shortage is bringing about many changes at the company. But he said that they are taking action and proactively approaching the issues to improve the situation.

The chief executive mentioned some of the things that RBI has done so far. He shared that they have expanded its support for field and training teams, good packages for hiring and work retention, and put in efforts to simplify back of house system to make work in restaurants easier for both the staff and franchisees. Still, RBI is expecting price increases and menu changes for Burger King and Popeyes.

"On pricing, we took price in 2021 at each of our brands, and given the level of commodity cost and labor inflation we are seeing, we expect additional price increases in 2022," FBN quoted the chief as saying. "And are working closely with franchisees to make the best decision for guests and our franchisees' Profit and Loss."

Thomas Curtis, Burger King US and Canada president, added that in December, they have implemented the first two waves of menu simplification and dropped low-volume items from the menu. He explained that they had to do this so that staff can focus on serving customers with the most ordered food items.

On this note, it was revealed that Burger King will be focusing more on its Whopper line this time since this is also what the brand is most known for. Curtis said last week that The Whopper will be their main point from now on since the flame-grilling was what really made their brand great. He added that this is also the same thing that will make them prominent going forwards.