Yelp's 2026 growth data: Fast casual brands, customization devouring the competition
Fast casual brands and customization reshape American dining culture according to Yelp's 2026 growth report.
auto_awesome
Yelp's latest report identifies fast casual brands like 7 Brew, Smoothie King, and Bojangles as leaders in growth and consumer engagement. With an emphasis on customization and health, these brands dominate consumer preferences, particularly in the chicken and beverage categories. The report indicates a robust demand for personalization in dining and drinking experiences.
Why It Matters
This trend suggests a shift in consumer expectations that franchisees must adapt to, particularly regarding menu offerings and customer engagement strategies. The focus on customizable options may impact unit economics and territory decisions for brands looking to capitalize on changing consumer behaviors.
Yelp's third annual Fastest Growing Brands report highlights the dominance of the fast casual sector in the American dining landscape as of 2026. Fast casual brands such as 7 Brews, Dave's Hot Chicken, Cava, and Chipotle are capturing consumer attention through innovative offerings centered around customization and convenience. The report emphasizes that today's consumers are increasingly seeking personalized food and beverage options tailored to their preferences.
7 Brews has emerged as the standout brand, achieving a remarkable 244% growth in consumer interest, up from its previous ranking of No. 23. This success can be attributed to its unique drive-thru-only model and a focus on high-energy service alongside extensive drink customization options, catering specifically to the rising demand for on-the-go caffeination.
The report also notes the impressive surge of the "dirty soda" trend, which has transitioned from a regional novelty in Utah to a mainstream phenomenon, marked by a 675% increase in Yelp searches in 2025. Fast casual and quick-service brands are quickly adapting to this trend; notable examples include Sonic Drive-In and Taco Bell, which are enhancing their menus to offer customizable sodas and energizing drink add-ons that resonate with millennial and Gen Z consumers.
