PDQ has been named as one of 2018’s “Emerging Brands” by Fishbowl, a leading data, marketing, and analytics company. The inclusion is a testament to the fast-casual concept’s significant growth since 2011, and with now over 60 locations across the country, signals PDQ’s success in 2018 and beyond. Since opening its first location in Tampa Bay seven years ago, PDQ has specialized in quality, offering chef-driven recipes made with mindful ingredients typically found in fine casual restaurants, with the value, speed and convenience of fast food. The group has rapidly been expanding, with stores in 11 states and counting, and also welcomed its first-ever airport location at the Tampa International Airport. “We are extremely proud of our brand, our People Dedicated to Quality team, and our focus on our guests,” said Nick Reader, PDQ CEO and Co-founder. “We are honored to be named in Fishbowl’s fifth annual report, and see it as a strong statement of belief in our growth potential.” The Fishbowl report identifies emerging brands within the restaurant industry whose growth is based on various factors such as embracing a progressive and innovative approach, great food, quality service, a spirited atmosphere and pleasing its guests. “Consumers often discover these emerging brands early in their development and become emotionally invested as they grow,” said Mike Lukianoff, Fishbowl’s chief analytics officer. “This creates an active sense of ownership that drives loyalty and increases vocal support via social media. The practice of being strongly mission-driven is important. Combine that characteristic with high-quality food and exceptional customer service and it’s a recipe for success that breaks through the clutter in what is a very crowded and competitive marketplace.” A full report, and an extended list of the Top 30 Emerging Brands, is available for download at: http://www2.fishbowl.com/EmergingBrands2018.html.