Atlanta, GA (RestaurantNews.com) Despite ongoing challenges, many restaurateurs have a positive outlook for the new year and are getting ready to implement changes that will benefit consumers and staff. That’s according to Popmenu’s nationwide study of 466 U.S. restaurant owners and operators in November 2022.
Two-thirds (65%) of restaurant owners and operators say their business has reached or surpassed pre-COVID levels, up from 55% in June 2022. Forty percent say they are very optimistic about business in 2023, up from 30% this time last year, while 54% say they’re cautiously optimistic.
“Restaurant owners and operators are feeling more confident going into 2023 as they capitalize on growing market demand and put strategies into place to weather economic shifts,” said Brendan Sweeney, CEO and Co-founder of Popmenu. “Technology has helped restaurants to mitigate challenges associated with inflation and labor gaps while also creating more revenue opportunities. You’ll see increased investment in both online and on-premise automation and digital marketing outreach in the coming year. You’ll also see a variety of strategies to keep both guests and staff engaged.”
5 Restaurant Trends to Watch in the New Year
1. More Value-Based Menus and Discounts: As grocery bills continue to climb, restaurants are positioning themselves as a more cost-effective option and offering special deals and incentives. This is good news for guests, considering that 40% of consumer food budgets go to restaurants each month, on average.
61% of restaurants will increase marketing in 2023; 33% of restaurants will provide more discounts and special offers
29% will serve up more value-based meals
2. Fewer Restaurants Raising Menu Prices: After adjusting menu prices in 2022 to combat higher food costs, fewer restaurants anticipate having to do so next year based on current market conditions.
Although a sizeable percentage of restaurants (72%) still plan to raise menu prices…..
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