Restaurants: MRM Research Roundup: Destination Dining, Voice Commerce, and the Force of Fast Food

Why it is the topic trending:

• Dynamic Shifts in Restaurant Industry: The article covers various evolving aspects of the restaurant industry, including delivery trends, automation, fast food market dynamics, impact of tariffs, summer dining preferences, voice commerce adoption, and consumer spending behaviors, all indicating a rapidly changing sector.

• Technological Advancements and Adoption: The increasing role of technology like AI, kiosks, mobile ordering, voice assistants, and delivery platforms in the restaurant industry is a significant and trending topic.

• Changing Consumer Preferences and Behaviors: The article highlights shifts in how consumers dine, order, and interact with restaurants, driven by factors like convenience, health consciousness, economic conditions, and ethical considerations.

• Economic Factors Influencing the Industry: Issues such as inflation, labor costs, tariffs, and supply chain challenges are significantly impacting restaurant operations and consumer spending.

• Seasonal and Event-Driven Trends: Summer dining trends and the influence of major events on travel and dining are current and relevant topics.

Overview: This edition of Modern Restaurant Management (MRM) magazine's Research Roundup provides a comprehensive look at the current state and evolving trends within the restaurant industry. The report synthesizes data from various sources, including PAR Technology Corporation, ResearchAndMarkets.com, Chef’s Pencil, Alignable, Chase, The Infatuation, Verizon Business, Morning Consult, DoorDash, SoundHound AI, CGA by NIQ, The Beer Institute, the National Beer Wholesalers Association, Escoffier, Givsly, and Ben’s Natural Health. Key topics covered include the continued growth of delivery services despite economic uncertainty, the expanding fast food and quick service restaurant market driven by convenience and health options, the impact of tariffs on small independent restaurants, shifts in summer travel and dining preferences, the emerging trend of voice commerce for food ordering, the recovery of on-premise spirits sales, the economic contribution of the beer industry, the diversity of food cities, the increasing importance of conscious consumerism, the blood sugar impact of popular fast food items, and recent slowdowns in consumer spending in certain dining segments. Overall, the research highlights a dynamic and rapidly transforming industry adapting to technological advancements, changing consumer behaviors, and various economic pressures.

Detailed Findings:

• Delivery Dominance: Despite economic uncertainty, delivery sales and transactions continued to increase industry-wide in 2024. Consumers are showing an increased willingness to pay a premium for seamless delivery experiences.

• Growth in Kiosk and Mobile Ordering: Kiosk usage as a channel saw a 27 percent year-over-year increase, and mobile ordering was up by 21 percent year-over-year, indicating a growing adoption of digital ordering methods.

• Dinner as Peak Transaction Time: Restaurants experience the highest volume of transactions during dinner hours (4 p.m.-9 p.m.), significantly outpacing breakfast, lunch, and late-night.

• Rising Labor Costs and Staff Shortages: Restaurants faced a 6 percent increase in labor costs in 2024, nearly double the national average, and a significant majority of restaurant owners were impacted by staff shortages despite a decline in turnover rates.

• Consumer Preference for Human Interaction over AI: A majority of consumers (60 percent) prefer human staff over AI-managed customer support in restaurants, with concerns about job losses and lack of human connection being major factors.

• Fast Food and QSR Market Growth: The U.S. fast food and quick service restaurant market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 3.74 percent from 2025 to 2033, reaching $345.6 billion, driven by convenience, digital ordering, menu innovation, and demand for healthy options.

• Convenience as a Major Growth Driver: The busy lifestyles of American consumers continue to fuel the demand for quick and convenient meal options offered by fast food and QSRs.

• Expansion of Healthier Menu Options: Fast food and QSR chains are increasingly offering healthier options like plant-based foods, low-calorie items, and organic products to cater to health-conscious consumers.

• Impact of Tariffs on Independent Restaurants: A significant majority (67 percent) of small, independent restaurant owners anticipate reduced revenues due to tariffs, highlighting growing economic distress.

• Summer Travel and Dining Increase: Summer travel bookings are up by 14 percent year-over-year, with a large majority of respondents planning to dine out more and spend more on travel compared to previous summers.

• Food as a Key Driver for Travel: A significant majority (77 percent) of respondents plan trips specifically around a destination's food and restaurant options, indicating the importance of culinary tourism.

• Early Dinner Times Gaining Popularity: Earlier dinner reservations are becoming more popular during the summer, particularly among Gen X.

• Shopping Driving Global Travel for Younger Generations: A large percentage of Gen Z and Millennials travel for shopping, with vintage fashion in Japan being a trending interest.

• AI Adoption in SMBs: Small and medium-sized businesses are increasingly adopting AI for various purposes, including marketing, customer service, and employee management.

• Consumer Openness to AI Food Recommendations: Over half of diners are open to receiving AI-based food recommendations from restaurants or apps based on their past orders.

• Preference for Human Chefs over Robots: Only a small percentage of consumers fully trust AI to prepare a restaurant meal, emphasizing the continued value of human involvement in food preparation.

• Generational Differences in Guilty Pleasure Delivery Orders: Gen Z and Millennials prefer fast food as their guilty pleasure delivery, while Gen X favors pizza, and Baby Boomers opt for desserts.

• Social Media Influencing Food Orders: A significant majority of Gen Z and Millennials have ordered a restaurant item after seeing it go viral on social media.

• Eagerness for In-Vehicle Voice Ordering: A large majority of drivers who use voice assistants are eager to order food via in-car voice assistants, indicating a shift towards voice commerce.

• Spirits Sales Recovering: On-premise spirits sales are approaching pre-COVID levels, with growth in premium options indicating continued willingness of consumers to spend on quality.

• Beer Industry's Economic Impact: The U.S. beer industry supports 2.42 million jobs and drives $471 billion in economic activity.

• New York City as a Highly Diverse Food City: New York City ranks second in food diversity with an extensive range of global cuisines.

• Increased Importance of Brand Values for Consumers: Over one in four Americans consider brand values more important today than five years ago, with Gen Z and multicultural consumers showing even stronger emphasis on values.

• High Blood Sugar Impact of Cinnabon and Fries: Cinnabon's cinnamon roll pastry has the highest estimated blood sugar spike among popular fast food items, followed by McDonald's medium french fries.

• Slowdown in Mother's Day Spending: Consumer spending in key Mother's Day categories did not reach year-ago levels, indicating a potential slowdown in discretionary spending.

• Shift Towards More Affordable Dining Options: Consumers are increasingly opting for more affordable dining options like QSRs, while spending in upscale and casual dining has seen a pullback.

Key success factors of product (trend):

• Convenience and Speed: For delivery, fast food, and QSRs, the ease and speed of obtaining food are crucial success factors.

• Value Proposition: Offering a good balance of price, quality, and quantity is essential for attracting and retaining customers, with "value" being interpreted in various ways (affordability, premium experience, etc.).

• Technological Integration: Seamless digital ordering, efficient delivery systems, and customer-friendly technology (kiosks, mobile apps, voice assistants) are increasingly important.

• Adaptability and Innovation: The ability to quickly adapt to changing consumer preferences, introduce new menu items (including healthier options and global flavors), and leverage emerging technologies is vital.

• Brand Values Alignment: For a growing segment of consumers, particularly Gen Z and multicultural audiences, aligning with their personal values and demonstrating social responsibility can drive brand loyalty and sales.

Key Takeaway: The restaurant industry is undergoing significant transformations driven by technology, evolving consumer preferences for convenience, health, and ethical considerations, as well as economic pressures. While delivery and digital ordering continue to thrive, the industry is also navigating challenges related to labor costs, economic uncertainty, and the need to balance automation with the valued human connection. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for restaurants to adapt, innovate, and remain competitive in the evolving landscape.

Main Trend: The Evolving Restaurant Ecosystem: Navigating Technology, Preferences, and Economic Shifts

Description of the trend (please name it): Restaurant Industry Renaissance: Adaptation in the Age of Digitalization and Conscious Consumption

What is consumer motivation:

• Seeking Convenience and Efficiency: Consumers increasingly prefer delivery, mobile ordering, and kiosks for faster and more convenient dining experiences.

• Prioritizing Value and Affordability: Economic uncertainty drives consumers to seek value for their money, leading to shifts towards more affordable dining options like QSRs.

• Demanding Healthier Choices: There is a growing consumer demand for healthier menu options, including plant-based, low-calorie, and organic offerings.

• Valuing Human Connection Despite Technology: While appreciating the efficiency of technology, consumers still value human interaction and connection in their dining experiences.

• Aligning Purchases with Personal Values: A growing number of consumers, especially younger generations and multicultural audiences, are motivated to support brands whose values align with their own.

• Seeking Unique and Convenient Experiences: Summer travelers are driven by the desire for food-centric trips and unique multi-use venues that combine dining with entertainment and culture.

• Embracing Technological Innovation for Convenience: Consumers are eager to adopt new technologies like in-vehicle voice assistants for seamless and hands-free food ordering.

What is driving trend:

• Advancements in Restaurant Technology: The development and adoption of AI, automation, mobile apps, kiosks, and voice commerce are transforming restaurant operations and customer interactions.

• Changing Consumer Lifestyles: Busy schedules, urbanization, and a desire for instant solutions are driving the demand for convenient dining options like delivery and fast food.

• Increased Awareness of Health and Wellness: Growing public consciousness about health and nutrition is influencing consumer food choices and driving demand for healthier menu options.

• Economic Factors and Uncertainty: Inflation, labor costs, and potential tariffs are impacting consumer spending and restaurant operational strategies.

• Seasonal and Cultural Events: Summer travel season and major events like concerts are shaping dining trends and travel destinations.

• Rise of Conscious Consumerism: Increasing consumer awareness of social and environmental issues is leading to a preference for brands that demonstrate strong values.

• Influence of Social Media and Viral Trends: Social media platforms play a significant role in shaping consumer preferences and driving trends in food ordering and dining.

What is motivation beyond the trend:

• Desire for Seamless and Frictionless Experiences: Consumers seek ease and efficiency in all aspects of their dining journey, from ordering to payment to consumption.

• Balancing Efficiency with Enjoyment and Connection: While valuing speed and convenience, consumers still look for enjoyable dining experiences and meaningful interactions.

• Seeking Personal Relevance and Alignment: Consumers are increasingly motivated to support businesses that resonate with their personal values and contribute positively to society.

• Exploring Novelty and Innovation: There is a consumer appetite for new and exciting food options, flavors, and dining concepts, driven by curiosity and a desire for variety.

• Managing Time and Resources Effectively: Consumers are looking for dining solutions that fit their busy schedules and offer good value for their money and time.

Description of consumers article is referring to: The article refers to a diverse range of consumers across various demographics, including:

• QSR Customers: Individuals who prioritize speed, convenience, and affordability when choosing where to eat. This group includes a broad spectrum of ages and income levels, often leading busy lifestyles.

• Delivery Users: Consumers who value convenience above all else and are willing to pay a premium for food to be delivered to their location. This group has grown significantly in recent years and includes individuals with varying levels of tech-savviness.

• Health-Conscious Diners: Consumers who actively seek out healthier menu options, such as plant-based foods, low-calorie meals, and organic products. This segment is increasingly influential and spans different age groups.

• Tech-Savvy Consumers: Individuals who are comfortable using technology for ordering, payment, and even interacting with AI in restaurants. Millennials and Gen Z are particularly prominent in this group.

• Conscious Consumers: A growing segment that makes purchasing decisions based on a brand's values and commitment to social and environmental issues. Gen Z and multicultural consumers are particularly engaged in this trend.

• Summer Travelers and Diners: Individuals planning leisure travel during the summer months, with a significant portion indicating a focus on food and dining experiences at their destinations.

• Voice Commerce Users: Early adopters and individuals interested in using in-car voice assistants for hands-free food ordering, with Gen Z and Millennials showing the highest interest.

• On-Premise Drink Consumers: Individuals who frequent bars and restaurants for drinks, with a current trend towards premium spirits, imported beers, and ready-to-drink options.

• Fast Food Patrons: Consumers who regularly visit fast food restaurants, driven by affordability, convenience, and familiarity. Generational differences exist in preferred guilty pleasure orders within this group.

Conclusions: The research roundup paints a picture of a restaurant industry in constant flux, adapting to a multitude of internal and external pressures. Technology is playing an increasingly central role, transforming operations, customer interactions, and even consumer expectations. Consumer preferences are evolving, with a greater emphasis on convenience, health, value, and ethical considerations. Economic factors continue to present both opportunities and challenges for restaurants of all sizes. To thrive in this dynamic environment, restaurants must embrace innovation, understand their diverse customer base, and be prepared to adapt their strategies to meet the ever-changing demands of the modern dining landscape.

Implications for brands:

• Invest in Digital Infrastructure: Restaurants need to prioritize investments in technology such as online ordering platforms, mobile apps, kiosks, and potentially voice commerce capabilities to meet evolving consumer preferences.

• Balance Automation with Human Touch: While technology offers efficiency, brands should be mindful of the continued consumer desire for human interaction and strive for a balanced approach.

• Offer Diverse Menu Options Catering to Health and Dietary Needs: Expanding menus to include a wider range of healthy, plant-based, and allergen-friendly options is crucial to attract a broader customer base.

• Clearly Communicate Value Propositions: Whether emphasizing affordability, premium quality, or unique experiences, brands need to clearly articulate their value to consumers, especially during times of economic uncertainty.

• Embrace Sustainability and Ethical Sourcing: Demonstrating a commitment to sustainable practices and ethical sourcing can resonate strongly with conscious consumers and build brand loyalty.

• Leverage Data and AI for Personalized Recommendations: Utilizing AI to analyze past orders and preferences can help restaurants offer more personalized recommendations and enhance customer engagement.

• Adapt to Seasonal and Event-Driven Trends: Remaining agile and adapting menus and promotions to align with seasonal preferences and major events can drive traffic and sales.

Implication for society:

• Potential for Job Displacement Through Automation: Increased adoption of AI and automation in restaurants could lead to concerns about job displacement for human workers, necessitating attention to retraining and workforce development.

• Shifting Food Consumption Patterns: The trends discussed reflect broader societal shifts in how and where people eat, with potential implications for public health, agriculture, and the environment.

• Increased Emphasis on Corporate Social Responsibility: The growing importance of conscious consumerism may drive more businesses to prioritize ethical and sustainable practices, contributing to positive social and environmental outcomes.

• Evolution of Culinary Culture: The influence of global flavors, social media trends, and diverse food city landscapes is constantly shaping and evolving American culinary culture.

Implications for consumers:

• Greater Convenience and Choice: Consumers will continue to benefit from increasing convenience and a wider variety of dining options thanks to technological advancements and menu diversification.

• More Personalized and Efficient Service: AI-driven personalization and automation could lead to more tailored and faster service experiences in some restaurants.

• Increased Access to Information About Food and Brands: Consumers will have more tools and information available to make informed choices about their dining options, including nutritional information and brand values.

• Potential for Higher Costs in Some Areas: While QSRs may offer affordability, the demand for premium ingredients, specialized delivery services, and unique dining experiences could lead to higher costs in other segments.

• Need to Navigate the Balance Between Technology and Human Interaction: Consumers will need to adapt to an increasingly automated restaurant environment while still valuing and seeking out human connection.

Implication for Future:

• Continued Acceleration of Technological Integration: Expect even more sophisticated AI applications, robotics, and digital platforms to become commonplace in the restaurant industry.

• Further Blurring of Lines Between Dining Channels: The distinction between dine-in, takeout, delivery, and ghost kitchens may become even less defined, with restaurants adopting more hybrid models.

• Greater Focus on Sustainable and Plant-Forward Diets: Environmental concerns and health trends will likely drive further innovation and adoption of plant-based and sustainable food options.

• Rise of Hyper-Personalized Dining Experiences: Technology could enable highly personalized menus, recommendations, and even dining environments tailored to individual preferences and dietary needs.

• Increased Emphasis on Transparency and Traceability: Consumers will likely demand greater transparency regarding food sourcing, preparation, and the ethical practices of restaurants.

Consumer Trend (name, detailed description): The Empowered Digital Diner: Consumers are increasingly leveraging digital tools and platforms for all aspects of their dining experience, from discovering restaurants and placing orders to providing feedback and engaging with brands. This trend is characterized by a demand for convenience, personalization, and seamless integration of technology into the dining journey, reflecting a growing comfort and reliance on digital interfaces for everyday activities.

Consumer Sub Trend (name, detailed description): Value-Driven Ethical Eater: A subset of consumers who prioritize not only the cost and convenience of their food choices but also the ethical and environmental impact of the brands they support. This trend is driven by increasing awareness of social and environmental issues and a desire to align purchasing decisions with personal values, leading to a preference for brands that demonstrate transparency and responsibility.

Big Social Trend (name, detailed description): The Age of Convenience and Instant Gratification: Modern society is characterized by a strong emphasis on convenience and instant gratification, with consumers seeking quick, easy, and efficient solutions in all aspects of their lives, including dining. This trend is fueled by busy lifestyles, technological advancements, and a cultural expectation for immediate access to goods and services.

Worldwide Social Trend (name, detailed description): Global Culinary Fusion and Exploration: Consumers around the world are increasingly open to and seeking out diverse culinary experiences, driven by globalization, travel, and access to information about different cultures and cuisines. This trend is reflected in the demand for global flavors and international menu options in the restaurant industry.

Social Drive (name, detailed description): The Pursuit of Well-being and Responsibility: Individuals are increasingly motivated by a desire to improve their personal well-being, encompassing both physical health and emotional fulfillment. This drive also extends to a growing sense of responsibility towards the environment and society, influencing consumer choices and behaviors.

Learnings for brands to use in 2025:

• Digital Presence is Non-Negotiable: A strong and user-friendly online presence, including a well-designed website and active social media engagement, is essential for reaching and engaging today's consumers.

• Mobile Optimization is Key: With the prevalence of mobile ordering and information seeking, ensuring a seamless mobile experience is crucial for all digital platforms.

• Data-Driven Decision Making is Essential: Leveraging data on customer preferences, ordering patterns, and feedback can inform menu development, marketing strategies, and operational improvements.

• Transparency Builds Trust: Being transparent about sourcing practices, nutritional information, and brand values can foster trust and loyalty among consumers.

• Omnichannel Experience is the Expectation: Consumers expect a consistent and integrated experience across all touchpoints, whether online, in-store, or through third-party platforms.

• Agility and Adaptability are Crucial: The restaurant industry is rapidly evolving, so brands must be agile and prepared to adapt their strategies and offerings to stay ahead of the curve.

Strategy Recommendations for brands to follow in 2025:

• Invest in Enhancing Digital Ordering and Delivery Platforms: Focus on creating intuitive, efficient, and personalized online and mobile ordering experiences.

• Develop and Promote Healthier Menu Options: Expand offerings to include a variety of nutritious and dietary-conscious choices, clearly highlighting their benefits.

• Implement Loyalty Programs and Personalized Offers: Utilize data to create targeted promotions and rewards that resonate with individual customer preferences and drive repeat business.

• Actively Solicit and Respond to Customer Feedback: Establish robust feedback mechanisms and use customer insights to inform improvements and address concerns.

• Explore and Pilot Innovative Technologies: Stay informed about emerging technologies like AI-powered personalization and voice commerce and consider piloting them to enhance the customer experience and operational efficiency.

• Communicate Sustainability Initiatives and Brand Values: Clearly articulate and showcase the brand's commitment to sustainability, ethical sourcing, and community involvement to appeal to conscious consumers.

Final sentence (key concept) describing main trend from article (which is a summary of all trends specified), and what brands & companies should do in 2025 to benefit from trend and how to do it. The overarching trend of an evolving restaurant ecosystem, driven by technological advancements, shifting consumer preferences towards convenience, health, and ethical considerations, and navigating economic pressures, necessitates that brands and companies in 2025 prioritize digital integration, offer diverse and value-driven options, embrace transparency, and foster meaningful connections with their increasingly empowered and discerning customer base to achieve sustained growth and relevance.

Final Note:

• Core Trend: The Evolving Restaurant Ecosystem: Navigating Technology, Preferences, and Economic Shifts: The multifaceted transformation of the restaurant industry driven by digital innovation, changing consumer demands, and economic realities.

• Core Strategy: Customer-Centric Digital Transformation with a Focus on Values: Prioritizing investments in digital infrastructure and personalized experiences while aligning brand values with the growing expectations of conscious consumers.

• Core Industry Trend: The Rise of the Empowered Digital Diner and the Importance of Ethical Consumption: The increasing reliance of consumers on digital tools for dining and their growing preference for brands that demonstrate ethical and sustainable practices.

• Core Consumer Motivation: Seeking Seamless Convenience, Personalized Experiences, Healthier Options, and Values Alignment: Consumers are primarily motivated by ease and efficiency, tailored services, nutritious choices, and supporting brands that reflect their personal beliefs.

Final Conclusion: The restaurant industry in 2025 stands at a pivotal juncture, characterized by rapid technological advancements, increasingly empowered and demanding consumers, and a complex economic landscape. The research highlighted in this roundup underscores the critical need for restaurants to be agile, innovative, and deeply attuned to the evolving needs and values of their customers. By embracing digital transformation while maintaining a human touch, prioritizing health and sustainability, and clearly communicating their value propositions, brands can navigate these changes effectively and position themselves for success in the years to come.

Core Trend Detailed: The core trend of The Evolving Restaurant Ecosystem: Navigating Technology, Preferences, and Economic Shifts describes a period of significant and interconnected changes impacting the entire restaurant industry. This evolution is characterized by the increasing integration of digital technology across all facets of the business, from operations to customer interactions. Simultaneously, consumer preferences are shifting towards greater convenience, a heightened focus on health and wellness, and a growing emphasis on ethical and sustainable practices. Moreover, the industry is operating within a dynamic economic environment marked by inflation, labor challenges, and evolving consumer spending patterns. This core trend highlights the need for restaurants to be adaptable and responsive to these multifaceted forces to remain competitive and relevant.

Key Characteristics of the Core trend:

• Ubiquitous Digital Integration: Technology is no longer a supplementary tool but an integral part of restaurant operations and customer engagement.

• Shifting Consumer Priorities: Convenience, health, value, and ethical considerations are increasingly influencing how consumers choose to dine.

• Dynamic Economic Landscape: The industry is operating within a constantly evolving economic climate that impacts both operational costs and consumer behavior.

• Increased Competition and Market Saturation: Restaurants face intense competition from both traditional and emerging players, requiring constant innovation to maintain market share.

• Emphasis on Data-Driven Decision Making: Restaurants are increasingly relying on data analytics to understand consumer behavior and optimize their strategies.

Market and Cultural Signals Supporting the Trend:

• High Adoption Rates of Online Ordering and Delivery: Consumers have embraced digital platforms for ordering and receiving food, indicating a strong preference for convenience.

• Growing Demand for Healthier and Plant-Based Options: The increasing popularity of healthier lifestyles is driving demand for more nutritious and plant-forward menu items.

• Increased Awareness of Sustainability and Ethical Issues: Consumers are more informed and concerned about the environmental and social impact of their food choices.

• Widespread Use of Smartphones and Mobile Apps: The ubiquitous nature of smartphones facilitates digital ordering, mobile payments, and access to restaurant information.

• Innovation in Restaurant Technology: Continuous advancements in AI, automation, and digital platforms are providing restaurants with new tools and capabilities.

How the Trend Is Changing Consumer Behavior:

• More Frequent Use of Digital Ordering and Delivery Services: Consumers are increasingly opting for the ease and speed of online and mobile ordering.

• Greater Emphasis on Nutritional Information and Ingredient Transparency: Consumers are more likely to seek out detailed information about the food they are consuming.

• Increased Support for Brands Aligning with Personal Values: Consumers are actively choosing to patronize restaurants that demonstrate a commitment to sustainability, ethical practices, and social responsibility.

• Expectation of Personalized Offers and Experiences: Consumers are growing accustomed to receiving tailored recommendations and promotions based on their past behavior.

• Willingness to Try New Technologies and Ordering Methods: Consumers are increasingly open to using kiosks, voice assistants, and other innovative technologies for a more seamless dining experience.

Implications Across the Ecosystem:

• For Brands and CPGs:

  • Need to adapt product development to align with health and sustainability trends.

  • Must invest in digital marketing and online sales channels.

• For Retailers:

  • Grocery stores need to stock a wider variety of healthy and plant-based options.

  • Restaurants require robust technology infrastructure and digital marketing strategies.

• For Consumers:

  • Increased convenience and choice in dining options.

  • Greater access to information to make informed food decisions.

Strategic Forecast:

• Digital Transformation Will Accelerate: Technology will continue to be a primary driver of change in the restaurant industry.

• Sustainability and Health Will Become Even More Critical: Consumer demand for healthy and environmentally responsible food options will intensify.

• Personalization Will Be Key to Customer Engagement: Restaurants will increasingly leverage data and technology to offer tailored experiences.

• The Line Between On-Premise and Off-Premise Dining Will Continue to Blur: Hybrid models that seamlessly integrate dine-in, takeout, and delivery will become more prevalent.

• Labor Challenges Will Drive Further Automation: As labor costs rise and staff shortages persist, restaurants will likely explore more automation solutions.

Final Thought (summary): The restaurant industry's ongoing evolution is marked by a critical interplay between technological advancements, shifting consumer values, and economic realities, requiring a strategic and adaptive approach from brands to navigate this dynamic landscape successfully.

Source: https://modernrestaurantmanagement.com/mrm-research-roundup-destination-dining-voice-commerce-and-the-force-of-fast-food/