#USA #Boston #restaurant growth #Crunchtime #Technomic

Growth Trends in the Restaurant Industry Amid Economic Challenges

According to a recent comprehensive study conducted by Crunchtime Information Systems, Inc. alongside Technomic, restaurant operators are planning a substantial expansion across the industry. This news emerges despite economic turbulence that keeps many business owners on high alert. The 2025 Restaurant Growth Insights Report, which surveyed over 300 multi-unit restaurant operators nationwide, reveals that restaurant brands demonstrate a steadfast commitment to growth and improvement.

Optimistic Growth Plans

One of the most notable findings from the report is that operators plan to open approximately 20% more locations over the next two years compared to the last two years. This figure indicates a strong resolve among operators even as 73% of them express concerns regarding economic uncertainties and 75% identify growth as increasingly difficult to achieve. The commitment to expansion suggests optimism in the market and the belief that strategic growth can be sustainable.

Challenges in Sales Forecasting

Despite their growth ambitions, operators reported a concerning statistic: their sales forecasting accuracy averages only 60%, despite 72% relying on tech-based forecasting tools. This discrepancy highlights a significant issue—while tools are available to assist, they are not effectively meeting the specific needs of operators. Inaccurate sales predictions, off by around 40%, can severely hinder growth and profitability, causing friction in the overall operational framework.

The Importance of Real-Time Visibility

Key operational areas like labor, food costs, and compliance must be visible in real time for operators to remain competitive. However, the report indicates that fewer than half of the operators achieve this vital visibility. This gap becomes glaring when operators consider their struggles to track essential elements like food costs, waste, and ingredient usage, which are critical for profitability. Real-time data visibility is paramount to making informed decisions that safeguard growth and enhance guest experiences.

Vendor Partnerships are Crucial

In the quest for growth, support from vendors is essential. A staggering 83% of operators say they aim to partner with vendors who can facilitate their expansion, yet 79% report experiencing challenges during growth periods. These challenges often come from rising costs and poor integration, issues that can be amplified as brands scale. It's crucial for operators to ensure they have a reliable support system in place to navigate these hurdles effectively.

The Path Forward

"Restaurant operators are not just focused on opening new locations; they are committed to making sure their operational systems, teams, and partnerships can effectively manage growth," explains John Raguin, CEO of Crunchtime. He asserts that this research provides a benchmark that operators can utilize to guide their strategic decisions. Raguin further emphasizes the significant opportunities for improving forecasting accuracy and achieving operational transparency, capabilities that are foundational to successful growth.

Conclusion

The overall message from the 2025 Restaurant Growth Insights Report paints a picture of resilience in the restaurant industry. While operators are facing several challenges, their ambitious plans for growth reveal a chance to adapt and innovate effectively. As the industry continues to navigate economic uncertainties, leveraging technology and improving operational practices will remain integral in these efforts to thrive and expand.

For further details on the insights from this research, the complete 2025 Restaurant Growth Insights Report can be downloaded, and additional findings will be discussed in an upcoming live webinar scheduled for October 15th.

About Crunchtime

Crunchtime helps leading restaurant brands achieve operational excellence, with their software utilized in over 150,000 locations worldwide. Their tools streamline various aspects of restaurant management, including inventory, staff scheduling, and compliance, ensuring profitability and optimal guest experiences. For more insights, visit their website.

About Technomic

Technomic, established in 1966, offers valuable insights in the food industry, assisting businesses in making informed, growth-oriented decisions. For more information, visit their site.