• by Teresa Buyikian , September 4, 2025

A whopping 73% of QSR consumers find that “AI makes it easier to search for and discover new and interesting places to eat.”

That’s according to a recent global study from Snapchat with Publicis Media and NRG, which surveyed 3,115 fast food consumers ages 13-60 across five markets (U.S., U.K., Canada, Saudi Arabia, France) on top trends that drive fast food purchases.

Those surveyed reported that new technology features integrated into QSRs, like AI and mobile delivery, “make it easier to search for and discover new and interesting places to eat.” A full 70% thought AI is “more accurately learning my tastes and preferences for food/drink.”

Where AI really stood out to respondents was for those ordering food delivery via their smartphones. 79% said they “like when mobile delivery apps suggest other items they want added to their order,” with an equal amount also saying they discover new QSRs through the “what other people bought” or “featured theme” pages online.

And while they’re ordering via their phones, they’re not just navigating to the QSR’s app or third-party delivery service; they’re scrolling through their social media feeds to decide what to eat before placing an order. 76% said seeing “tasty-looking items on social media” inspires them to order, with those on Snapchat in particular being “2.7x more likely to make QSR-related purchases by using links provided by a brand on social.”

Word of mouth is making a comeback, just now online. 70% of respondents said, “they often try QSR items they see their friends sharing on social platforms,” with 66% even stating they “rarely try new restaurants or food without getting advice from friends and family.” And these customers don’t hesitate to say to share their thoughts either, with 81% going on to recommend QSRs they like to friends and family after ordering.

And while friends and family help drive QSR orders, consumers still rely on influencers and online content creators, with 70% citing their recommendations to be just as good as those from loved ones. Snapchat users are “1.5x more likely to follow creators specifically for their food/drink reviews” and recommendations.

The influence of content creators goes beyond food; it affects brand perception as well. Those brands that partner with creators and influencers are “more likely to be perceived as socially relevant (71%) and part of consumers’ circles (68%).”