Burger Urge Champions Authentic Hospitality Amid AI Boom

As artificial intelligence continues to redefine the way we work, communicate, and consume content, Burger Urge is leading a different kind of revolution—one that puts people first.

While much of the world turns to AI for convenience, Australia’s leading gourmet burger brand is leaning harder than ever into real, human connection. The message is clear: in a world where everything can be faked, authenticity is the real luxury.

Global thought leaders like Simon Sinek and Steven Bartlett have warned that the digital age, dominated by AI-generated content, is leaving people starved for real human connection. Leadership expert Simon Sinek puts it plainly:

“Human beings really want human beings. And human beings really want human experiences.”

Other voices—including Dr. Kai-Fu Lee, Natalie Giddings of Hoozu, and Matteo Pittaluga of the Forbes Business Council—have echoed this call, pointing to a rising global demand for genuine, personal interaction.

Burger Urge’s co-founder, Sean Carthew, agrees:

“Hospitality is a people business. Our Franchise Partners create unique and authentic experiences in their venues, and community is at the heart of everything we do.”

At Burger Urge, authenticity isn’t just a buzzword—it’s built into the brand’s DNA:

• High Dine-In Rates: While many quick-service restaurants have gone digital and faceless, Burger Urge continues to see one of the highest dine-in rates in the industry, showing customers still crave in-person experiences.
• Uniquely Themed Venues: No two Burger Urge restaurants are the same. Each is designed to reflect the personality of its local community and its Franchise Partner, from movie-themed décor to hometown sports murals.
• Local Ownership, Local Impact: Franchise Partners are more than business owners—they’re community members. They host events, sponsor teams, and know their customers by name.

This people-first approach is paying off. In 2025 alone, Burger Urge has opened or broken ground on three new venues—with more in the pipeline. Passionate Franchise Partners are choosing Burger Urge for its bold brand, strong values, and commitment to quality over shortcuts.

“We’re growing fast, but we haven’t succumbed to a big-business mentality,” said Carthew. “We’ve figured out how to scale while protecting the essence of the brand—keeping it real, personal, and grounded in old-school hospitality.”

Founded in Queensland and now fast approaching $100 million in turnover, Burger Urge has reimagined what a burger restaurant can be. With top-quality ingredients, bold branding, and a human-first model, it continues to lead Australia’s gourmet burger revolution—one authentic experience at a time.