The Marketing Value Combo: The Most Important Deal for Fast Casual Restaurants to Perfect in 2025

4 Min Read By Alicia DiStefano

The Value Wars continue to shake up the dining industry, increasing competition for the same share of stomachs.For fast casual chains, competition includes usual suspects like casual dining and QSRs as well as c-stores and grocery chains who are ramping up foodservice offerings to capitalize on the trading down trend.

FCRs that have beefed up their “Marketing Value Meal” are emerging victorious. 

Successful chains like Chipotle and Shake Shack and high-growth brands like Cava are leaning into the fact that value isn’t just about price—it’s the perception of value, which includes portion size, quality, customization and convenience. In fact, InMarket studies show that quality, taste/flavor and product value are the most important factors when it comes to repeat F&B purchases. FCRs thrive on these aspects. 

Here are three considerations for the “Ultimate Marketing Value Meal” and steps for bringing it to life:

Pair Value with QualityIt’s not just about price, but…