'People Dedicated to Quality' (PDQ), the American QSR chain, has debuted the new 'PDQ Mac and Cheese' side dish at its restaurants. The Mac and Cheese is made with rich and creamy cheddar cheese and is topped with toasted panko breadcrumbs for added texture. The side dish costs $3.79 USD on its own, or $1.79 as an upgrade from a side dish included with a combo.
The PDQ Mac and Cheese was released following an extensive six-month period of consumer testing. The brand selectively tested the item at restaurant menus, and the item was unanimously met with positive feedback, leading to PDQ adding it as a permanent menu item. On top of this new item release, PDQ currently has a promotion for its rewards program 'MyPDQ Points,' where new users can receive three free tenders for registering.
Image Credit: PDQ
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Gourmet Side Dishes
- Opportunity for QSRs to introduce menu items with elevated flavors, textures, and plating techniques.
- Consumer-driven Menu Testing
- Chance for businesses to test new menu items with a select group of consumers and use their feedback to adjust before launching to the general public.
- Loyalty Rewards Programs
- Potential for businesses to attract new customers by offering free items or discounts through sign-up promotions.
Where This Applies
- Quick-service Restaurants (QSR)
- QSR businesses can use the popularity of side dishes to explore new flavors, textures, and gourmet options for their menu items.
- Food and Beverage Industry
- Restaurants and food product manufacturers could introduce new side dishes or add interesting twists to classic dishes to cater to the evolving tastes of consumers.
- Retail and Loyalty Marketing
- Retail businesses and QSRs alike can use loyalty rewards programs to incentivize new customer registrations, boost repeat visits, and encourage larger purchases.
