Weekly Global News Wrap: Less US restaurants visits seen due to COVID-19; Taco Bell elevates its Cantina concept; Chipotle testing unlimited paid time off

Here is a summary of the most interesting QSR news stories of the week from around the world.

Consumers are likely to leave the house less and cut back on restaurant visits amidst fears related to the ongoing spread of COVID-19. Citing data from its sister company Technomic, Restaurant Business reported that two-thirds of consumers surveyed said they are paying close attention to the coronavirus, far ahead of any other news topic. Read more here.

Starbucks closed a store in the US state of Seattle after an employee was diagnosed with COVID-19, which has affected over 100,000 persons worldwide. In an open letter, the coffee giant said they will continue to follow its protocols “rooted in partner care and expertise from the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).” Read more here.

McDonald’s has also canceled its in-person biennial convention for its worldwide franchisees due to the coronavirus outbreak. As reported by CNBC, the four-day event in April, which was supposed to take place in Orlando, Florida, will now occur virtually. Read more here.

Taco Bell is testing a new iteration of its Cantina concept in the US, calling it “fast social.” As reported by Forbes, the revitalised concept will introduce “dynamic dining rooms and lean into social gatherings.” Read more here.

Yum! Brands announced it had acquired Heartstyles, a program aimed at leadership development. The company has initiated multi-year plans to scale Heartstyles and offer it efficiently to its more than 2,000 franchisees who run 98% of its more than 50,000 restaurants. Read more here.

Chipotle is testing unlimited paid time off for its senior staff as labor pressures looming across the industry. As reported by Restaurant Business, the American fast casual chain also expanded its parental leave programme. Read more here.