How can Inspire Brands address the 20% drop in Buffalo Wild Wings' dine-in traffic observed across Midwest locations since January?

Introduction

The 20% drop in Buffalo Wild Wings' dine-in traffic across Midwest locations since January is a critical issue for Inspire Brands. This analysis will systematically identify, validate, and address the root cause while considering both immediate and long-term implications for the business.

I'll approach this problem by first clarifying the context, then ruling out external factors before diving deep into product understanding, metric breakdown, and hypothesis formation. We'll then conduct a thorough root cause analysis, propose validation methods, and outline a comprehensive resolution plan.

Step 1

Clarifying Questions (3 minutes)

• Looking at the timing, I'm thinking there might be a seasonal component. Has this drop been compared to the same period last year?

Why it matters: Seasonal trends could explain the traffic decrease. Expected answer: Yes, it's been compared and the drop is unusual for this time of year. Impact on approach: If seasonal, we'd focus on year-over-year comparisons; if not, we'd investigate recent changes.

• Considering the specificity to Midwest locations, I'm wondering about regional factors. Have there been any significant economic or social changes in the Midwest recently?

Why it matters: Regional issues could explain the localized nature of the problem. Expected answer: No major regional changes have been identified. Impact on approach: If regional factors are at play, we'd tailor our solution to the Midwest; if not, we'd look at company-wide issues.

• Given the focus on dine-in traffic, I'm curious about other sales channels. Has there been a corresponding increase in takeout or delivery orders?

Why it matters: This could indicate a shift in customer behavior rather than a loss of customers. Expected answer: Slight increase in takeout/delivery, but not enough to offset dine-in losses. Impact on approach: If there's a channel shift, we'd focus on omnichannel strategy; if not, we'd investigate dine-in experience issues.

• Considering potential internal changes, have there been any significant menu updates, pricing changes, or marketing campaigns in the past few months?

Why it matters: Internal changes could directly impact customer behavior. Expected answer: Minor menu updates, but no major changes to pricing or marketing. Impact on approach: If internal changes correlate with the traffic drop, we'd review those decisions; if not, we'd look at external factors or operational issues.