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consumers

Consumer Trends

Restaurant consumers are overextended, health-minded and nostalgic

By Alicia Kelso on May 15, 2026

New research from Technomic unpacks the ‘new realities’ shaping industry trends amid a tough macroenvironment.

Operations

Restaurants are getting anxious about gas prices

 By Joe Guszkowski on Apr. 23, 2026

If prices remain elevated, they could start to take a bite out of restaurant sales and traffic. Operators are responding by focusing on value and service, and trying to look beyond the present.

Operations

6 forces shaping the restaurant industry right now

By Joe Guszkowski on Apr. 21, 2026

War, weed, weight-loss drugs and an aging population are creating uncertainty and opportunity for restaurants, Technomic experts said at the Restaurant Leadership Conference.

Technology

Food delivery turns the K-shaped economy on its head

By Joe Guszkowski on Apr. 06, 2026

Tech Check: Data shows that lower-income consumers are ordering the most delivery, even as they pull back from restaurants overall. Here’s why that might be, and what it means for operators.

Consumer Trends

The rise of GLP-1 drugs looms in restaurant chain earnings

By Lisa Jennings on Feb. 26, 2026

Whether it's about promoting protein or smaller portions, the restaurant industry is preparing for a shift in consumer behavior.

Financing

'Everyday value' lifts Cava's sales and sends its stock soaring

By Lisa Jennings on Feb. 25, 2026

The fast-casual chain's same-store sales rose more than investors expected, which the company said was due to its value positioning. The stock soared more than 10%.

Technology

Consumers are sending a signal on tech. Restaurants should listen

By Joe Guszkowski on Feb. 24, 2026

Tech Check: Balancing tech and hospitality is an ongoing challenge for operators. Recent data shows that the scales may be getting out of whack.

Technology

Panera faces multiple lawsuits following data breach

By Lisa Jennings on Feb. 23, 2026

Customers seeking class-action status argue in court that the fast-casual chain failed to protect their personal information, even after being hit by a cyberattack last year.

Consumer Trends

How consumers really feel about protein and fiber

By Patricia Cobe on Feb. 13, 2026

The two nutrients are getting a lot of play on social media. Restaurants should pay more attention, according to recent research.

Operations

Restaurant and foodservice sales are expected to reach $1.55T in 2026

By Lisa Jennings on Feb. 12, 2026

The National Restaurant Association's annual State of the Industry report offers cautious optimism, but said last year's traffic challenges are expected to remain in play. Only 42% of operators said they were profitable last year.

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