Understanding key restaurant industry indicators
Our team of economists navigates the often-conflicting signals found in U.S. and industry data, distilling this information to identify trends and provide meaningful insights for restaurant and foodservice operators, as well as the general public.
Blog
Explore the latest from the Association team.
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Research
For Restaurants and Other Businesses, Demographics Will Remain a Challenge
April 23, 2025Demographic trends will continue to present a challenge for restaurants, with the birth rate near record lows. -
Research
A Weaker Dollar Adds Pressure for Restaurants
April 22, 2025Since peaking on January 13, the U.S. dollar has declined 5.3% against a broad, trade-weighted index of global currencies, according to the Federal Reserve. For restaurants, this adds a second layer of cost pressure: not only are tariffs raising prices on imports, but the weaker dollar makes those goods—such as food, beverages, equipment, and supplies—even more expensive.
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Research
New Association report provides a demographic profile of the restaurant workforce
April 15, 2025Restaurant employees tend to be younger and more diverse than the overall U.S. workforce. -
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Imports Jump to Record High in January in Anticipation of New Tariffs
March 06, 2025The U.S. trade deficit soared in January, likely on front-loading of possible tariffs. -
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Cost of Living Comparisons Around the Country for 2023
December 13, 2024Regional price parity indices can be helpful in assessing cost-of-living differences around the country. -
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Overview of Food and Beverage Commodity Imports from Canada, Mexico and China
November 26, 2024Overview of Food and Beverage Commodity Imports from Canada, Mexico and China -
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Census Survey Affirms: Extreme Weather Causes Major Disruptions for Restaurants
November 18, 2024The Census Bureau's Business Trends and Outlook Survey provides interesting insights on the impact of extreme weather on restaurants. -
Research
Health Insurance Costs Rose 7% in 2024
October 09, 2024 -
Research
ISM: Service-Sector Growth Strengthened in September
October 03, 2024 -
Research
Restaurant Job Openings Rose in August, a Sign of Lingering Resilience in an Otherwise Cooling Labor Market
October 01, 2024