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economy

Financing

The problem with $4 gas

 By Jonathan Maze on Jul. 27, 2026

The Bottom Line: This week’s edition of the weekly restaurant finance newsletter looks at the return of $4 gas and why that will put a lid on traffic.

Financing

The restaurant industry is stagnant right now

 By Jonathan Maze on Jul. 06, 2026

The Bottom Line: This week’s edition of the weekly restaurant finance newsletter looks at weak industry hiring and why that points to a saturated business.

Operations

Detroit 3.0 brings restaurant scene to the forefront

By Lisa Jennings on Jun. 25, 2026

The nation's 14th largest metro area has come a long way since the city filed bankruptcy in 2013. Now Detroit is finally getting noticed as a hub of opportunity.

Financing

Will the World Cup be a boon for the restaurant industry? That depends

By Jonathan Maze on Jun. 08, 2026

Cities hosting matches can expect an economic boost that generates restaurant sales, but the broader impact will likely be more muted than people expect.

Financing

For restaurants, the economy is an uphill battle

By Jonathan Maze on Jun. 01, 2026

The Bottom Line: This week’s edition of the weekly restaurant finance newsletter looks at economic data, and why a booming market is of little help.

Financing

Economic data points to a two-sided economy

By Jonathan Maze on May 29, 2026

The economy performed worse than expected in the first quarter and disposable personal income fell last month. Much of the spending these days is concentrated on a small group of Americans.

Financing

How restaurants can handle the K-shaped economy

By Jonathan Maze on May 27, 2026

A Deeper Dive: Michelle Korsmo, president and CEO of the National Restaurant Association, joins the weekly restaurant finance podcast to talk about the state of the industry.

Consumer Trends

How the restaurant industry is navigating a 'complex' consumer environment

By Alicia Kelso on May 16, 2026

Fogo de Chao and DineAmic Hospitality have adjusted their value offerings to strengthen non-celebration, weekday business.

Financing

Soaring gas prices and lower consumer sentiment are causing problems for restaurants

By Jonathan Maze on May 04, 2026

The Bottom Line: The price of a gallon of gas is nearing $4.50 and showing no signs of slowing. That likely hurt restaurant sales and traffic in March and April. And the worst may be yet to come.

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.

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