Embracing Technology and Talent: The Key to Restaurant Industry Success
The restaurant industry is witnessing a transformative phase characterized by a growing emphasis on both human resources and technology. In her keynote address at the recent National Restaurant Association Show held in Chicago, President and CEO Michelle Korsmo highlighted the importance of empowering a future-ready workforce and leveraging advanced technological solutions. Korsmo's core message was clear: the success of restaurants hinges not only on filling positions but also on inspiring individuals to view their roles as a meaningful career.
Recent statistics from the National Restaurant Association's 2025 State of the Restaurant Industry report reveal that around 60% of food service employees are under the age of 35. This younger demographic seeks more than just a paycheck; they desire a sense of community and workplaces that prioritize personal and professional development. Programs like ProStart® serve as pivotal platforms, wherein high school students engage in hands-on culinary and business training, grooming them for future leadership roles in the industry.
Korsmo emphasizes that as the competition for talent intensifies, restaurant operators must invest in their workforce. "We should celebrate the nearly 16 million people who make up this workforce," said Korsmo. By fostering an environment that nurtures growth and development, restaurants can attract and retain top talent, which is crucial for sustainability in this competitive market.
Korsmo also addressed the necessity of adopting advanced technological tools to streamline operations. In an age where traditional financial assessments are insufficient, restaurant operators must now adopt proactive and data-driven approaches. Emphasizing the importance of efficient inventory management, intelligent purchasing decisions, and strategic supply chain management, she pointed out that technology plays a vital role in achieving these efficiencies.
Moreover, restaurants are now challenged with rising labor and food costs. As Korsmo explained, utilizing technology can be the differentiator between thriving and merely surviving. An impressive 83% of restaurant operators acknowledge that technology offers a competitive edge, while four in ten report that tech investments have directly enhanced customer satisfaction.
The positive outlook on the restaurant experience remains unwavering, as evidenced by consumer spending trends. With projected sales of $1.5 trillion in the current year, consumers continue to allocate their discretionary funds toward dining experiences. Korsmo articulated the significance of this trend, urging restaurant operators to take an active role in the conversation around industry advocacy, reinforcing that they are their best advocates.
As the restaurant landscape continually evolves, it is crucial for operators to engage actively with these trends and technologies to secure their place in a dynamic market. The National Restaurant Association stands as a beacon for these developments, shaping the future of dining and ensuring that restaurant operators have the necessary tools and insights to thrive in this ever-changing environment. By focusing on empowering their workforce and embracing technology, restaurants can pave the way for a sustainable and prosperous future.
For more details on Korsmo's vision and additional resources available through the National Restaurant Association, please visit their official website and follow them on social media platforms.
Empowering a Future-Ready Workforce
Recent statistics from the National Restaurant Association's 2025 State of the Restaurant Industry report reveal that around 60% of food service employees are under the age of 35. This younger demographic seeks more than just a paycheck; they desire a sense of community and workplaces that prioritize personal and professional development. Programs like ProStart® serve as pivotal platforms, wherein high school students engage in hands-on culinary and business training, grooming them for future leadership roles in the industry.
Korsmo emphasizes that as the competition for talent intensifies, restaurant operators must invest in their workforce. "We should celebrate the nearly 16 million people who make up this workforce," said Korsmo. By fostering an environment that nurtures growth and development, restaurants can attract and retain top talent, which is crucial for sustainability in this competitive market.
Unleashing Breakthrough Efficiency
Korsmo also addressed the necessity of adopting advanced technological tools to streamline operations. In an age where traditional financial assessments are insufficient, restaurant operators must now adopt proactive and data-driven approaches. Emphasizing the importance of efficient inventory management, intelligent purchasing decisions, and strategic supply chain management, she pointed out that technology plays a vital role in achieving these efficiencies.
Moreover, restaurants are now challenged with rising labor and food costs. As Korsmo explained, utilizing technology can be the differentiator between thriving and merely surviving. An impressive 83% of restaurant operators acknowledge that technology offers a competitive edge, while four in ten report that tech investments have directly enhanced customer satisfaction.
The Consumer Perspective
The positive outlook on the restaurant experience remains unwavering, as evidenced by consumer spending trends. With projected sales of $1.5 trillion in the current year, consumers continue to allocate their discretionary funds toward dining experiences. Korsmo articulated the significance of this trend, urging restaurant operators to take an active role in the conversation around industry advocacy, reinforcing that they are their best advocates.
As the restaurant landscape continually evolves, it is crucial for operators to engage actively with these trends and technologies to secure their place in a dynamic market. The National Restaurant Association stands as a beacon for these developments, shaping the future of dining and ensuring that restaurant operators have the necessary tools and insights to thrive in this ever-changing environment. By focusing on empowering their workforce and embracing technology, restaurants can pave the way for a sustainable and prosperous future.
For more details on Korsmo's vision and additional resources available through the National Restaurant Association, please visit their official website and follow them on social media platforms.
Topics Business Technology）
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