Weekly Global News Wrap: Popeyes' new fish sandwich; Burger King tests new loyalty programme; Taco Bell's $5 value box

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

After kickstarting the chicken sandwich wave in the U.S., Popeyes is now trying out a new fish sandwich in time for Lent. This is the first time the chain offered such an item in its 48-year history, according to the Washington Post. Read more here.

Burger King is the latest major chain in the U.S. to increasingly push a loyalty programme in a bid to remain competitive for customers, who are frequenting drive-thrus and ordering delivery amid the pandemic. Restaurant Business reports the company is kicking off its Royal Perks programme in Los Angeles, New York City, Miami, Long Island and New Jersey. Read more here.

Taco Bell expanded its value menu options by launching a US$5 Build Your Own Cravings Box. As reported by Yahoo!, the offering allows customers to choose 4 menu options (specialties, starters, sides and a drink), for a total of up to 18 potential variations. Read more here.

McDonald’s U.S. franchisees are partially ending their weeks-old pause in non-essential communications with the fast food company, resolving some issues in their weeks-old dispute, particularly over the structure of the company’s Archways for Opportunity tuition program. Restaurant Business reports, however, that the two sides remain far apart on $70 million in technology fees. Read more here.

Fast food workers in 15 U.S. cities will hold a Black History Month strike to demand that the McDonald’s, Burger King and Wendy’s restaurant chains pay them US$15 an hour. The Guardian reported. The action comes as the U.S. Congress prepares to debate a federal rise in the minimum wage to US$15 from its current rate of US$7.25, the first federal raise since 2009. Read more here.