sales

Financing

Sales slowed in August as delta variant surges

Yet same-store sales were still positive, according to Black Box, as consumers continued dining at restaurants.

Consumer Trends

Where the restaurant industry stands 18 months into the pandemic

A snapshot just released by the National Restaurant Association shows a business solidly in recovery mode, but with uncertainties arising because of the delta variant.

The index hit its lowest level since February as the delta variant spreads. Other data show reluctance to visit restaurants. But Black Box data remains strong.

A survey of about 5,300 small businesses reveals that the delta strain of coronavirus has landlords waiting and operators worried.

The very largest chains performed best in the pandemic-hurt year of 2020. And they’re coming out of it better, too, says RB’s The Bottom Line.

The information firm also notes that other factors could be at play as sales have slowed so far in August.

The vast majority of companies mentioned the variant and renewed coronavirus surge, but most remain optimistic about their own businesses.

Several major players say they're already detecting a softening of sales. Will that carry into the group-party season?

A roundup of recent earnings reports provides a clearer picture of a rebounding industry's challenges and opportunities.

Meanwhile, parent Dine Brands is about to consider "all options to optimize shareholder return."

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