Restaurant Economic Insight Blog
Regular insights from the Association's team of economists providing a nuanced look at the market forces affecting the restaurant industry.
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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. -
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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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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. -
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Health Insurance Costs Rose 7% in 2024
October 09, 2024 -
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ISM: Service-Sector Growth Strengthened in September
October 03, 2024 -
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Restaurant Job Openings Rose in August, a Sign of Lingering Resilience in an Otherwise Cooling Labor Market
October 01, 2024