By RTN staff – 11.20.2024
TouchBistro’s 2025 State of the Restaurant Industry report reveals a year of complex challenges and surprising resilience for independent full-service restaurants (FSRs). While operators grappled with rising expenses, particularly in food and labor, they also saw increased guest traffic and profit margins, driven in part by strong takeout and delivery sales.
The report, based on a survey of 600 independent FSR owners and operators across the U.S., highlights key trends and challenges shaping the industry.
According to the research findings, restaurants are increasingly turning to technology for solutions. Automation of everyday operations is becoming more common, with online ordering, invoicing, and email marketing leading the way. Operators report positive outcomes from these technologies, including increased efficiency, productivity, and even sales growth.
AI adoption is also accelerating, particularly in back-of-house operations. 95% of surveyed operators reported using some form of AI in their restaurant, with AI-assisted inventory management, menu optimization, and reservations/bookings being the most common applications.
Nearly all operators (99%) utilize online ordering platforms, and a significant portion have seen a notable increase in takeout and delivery sales.
While Facebook remains the dominant platform, TikTok usage has surged among restaurant operators, reflecting its growing popularity among consumers.
Operators are moving beyond discount-based loyalty programs, leveraging data to personalize offers and enhance customer value.
Based on the survey findings, TouchBistro predicts several key trends, including:
- Accelerated Back-of-House Automation: Focusing on cost-saving automation in areas like inventory tracking and labor forecasting.
- Off-Premise Optimization: Improving speed, accuracy, and efficiency in online ordering and delivery processes.
- Reframing Restaurant Loyalty: Shifting from discount-focused programs to personalized, value-driven loyalty initiatives.
- Enhancing the Online Guest Experience: Prioritizing digital channels like TikTok to reach new audiences and drive repeat business.
- Choosing Future-Proof Technology: Selecting technology solutions that align with long-term business goals and support future expansion.