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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New Association Website Spotlights Restaurant Jobs and Career Paths
May 19, 2025 -
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Elevated costs continue to pressure restaurant profitability
May 15, 2025Total restaurant input costs soared 30% since before the pandemic. -
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New Association report provides a demographic profile of restaurant owners
May 05, 2025The accessibility of restaurant ownership across demographic groups illustrates the entrepreneurial opportunities in the industry. -
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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.