Burger King Says Revamped Whopper Is a Big Draw

Burger King says its new and improved Whopper is a clear hit. A recent makeover of the Whopper—tweaked bun, mayonnaise, and packaging—helped drive an 8.5% jump in US same-store sales last quarter, the company said. As exec Tom Curtis put it, "A lot of people are saying they're coming back for the first time in a long time." Curtis tells the Wall Street Journal Burger King is taking share from rivals, likely including McDonald's. Indeed, the New York Post reports McDonald's saw US same-store sales growth of 0.8% last quarter, which the company framed as disappointing.

Both chains are racing to upgrade their experience: McDonald's is testing new chicken items and expanded drinks, including ones made with Red Bull; it also this week announced the hire of a new US president. Meanwhile, Burger King in July added a pledge to immediately remake any Whopper that doesn't taste great and is now focusing on ramping up the friendliness of its service.