NATIONAL DRIVE-THRU DAY
Fast Facts
- WHEN
- Celebrated each year on July 24th
- WHAT
- A celebration of an iconic innovation that conveniently changed our lives
- STAT
- There are more than 211,000 fast-food restaurants in the U.S.
- CREATOR
- Originally created By Jack in the Box to be celebrated on July 28, 2002. The date was changed in 2006 to be celebrated on July 24.
NATIONAL DRIVE-THRU DAY
National Drive-Thru Day on July 24 recognizes an innovation conveniently going strong today. The drive-thru reached its iconic zenith in the 1950s but stayed strong through the '60s, '70s and beyond. People have enjoyed this service since the 1930s.
#NationalDriveThruDay
The ease of dropping off and picking up an item without getting out of the car may be something we take for granted. Of course, many studies point to the benefits and drawbacks associated with using the drive-thru.
The first and most obvious benefit that comes to mind is the ease of dropping off or picking up and item. Whether it's the mail, a prescription or the dry cleaning, pulling up to a window or a slot and passing the article through is eminently easier than even finding a parking spot. Then, if we have children, we collect our children, our item and wait in line. After waiting, we usually search for our parking spot while juggling children and once again pile them back into the car. When multiple stops are involved, repeat the previous steps. Check the ease of use box.
Did you know?
There are more than 211,000 fast-food restaurants in the United States.
The drive-thru format was pioneered in the United States for banking services.
Hamburgers sold for just 18 cents at some of the first drive-thru restaurants.
Restaurants, coffee shops, liquor stores, pharmacies, and many more services utilize drive-thrus for quick service.
Secondly, many people think the drive-thru is faster. While that might be true at some locations, it will depend on the type of service, time of day, and where you are located. For example, a long line in the drive-thru at the bank may mean no waiting inside. The same may also be true at your favorite fast-food restaurant. However, if you only need to drop off a letter at the post office, use the drive-up option.
Finally, accuracy tops the list of some drive-thru specialists. Again, this criterion is hit or miss. Depending on the type of business, time of day and location, accuracy varies. Interestingly, in 2018, Chick-fil-A mastered this arena with 97.3% accuracy.
1920s
In 1921, Kirby’s Pig Stand in Texas introduces the drive-in restaurant model, where "carhops" bring trays of food directly to parked cars.
1930s
Banks begin experimenting with drive-up teller windows, allowing customers to make deposits without stepping out of their vehicles.
1940s
Red's Giant Hamburg opens in 1947 along Route 66 in Springfield, Missouri. The restaurant is widely credited as the first drive-thru restaurant where customers ordered and picked up food at a window. In 1948, In-N-Out Burger opens in Baldwin Park, California, and introduces the first two-way intercom system, allowing drivers to order ahead and pick up without ever leaving their lane.
1950s
Jack in the Box opens with a primary focus on fast, drive-thru service rather than dining room seating.
1960s
Wendy's opens its first location in Columbus, Ohio, in 1969. The restaurant featured a dedicated drive-thru window designed as a core operational feature.
1970s
In 1975, McDonald's opens its first drive-thru in Sierra Vista, Arizona. The restaurant was originally created to serve military members who were prohibited from wearing their military fatigues inside public establishments off-base.
1980s
During the 1980s, chains standardize operations with computerized order screens, automated beverage dispensers, and timer systems to increase order speed. The concept of having a double-lane drive-thru is introduced to handle higher volume.
1990s
Coffee shops like Starbucks and pharmacies begin widespread rollout of drive-thru services in the 1990s, providing more uses for the drive-thru beyond fast food chains.
2000s
The use of mobile apps and digital menu boards makes using the drive-thru easier and more efficient. It also provides more options for pick up beyond the standard drive-thru lane.
HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL DRIVE-THRU DAY
Enjoy the day by using all the drive-thru's available to you. Post on social media using #NationalDriveThruDay to encourage others to celebrate the day with you.
NATIONAL DRIVE-THRU DAY HISTORY
America’s first drive-thru burger chain, Jack in the Box, created National Drive-Thru Day to celebrate America’s love of convenience by car. Beginning in 2002, National Drive-Thru Day was celebrated on July 28. In 2006, the date was changed to July 24 to avoid overlapping with National Hamburger Day on July 28.