Restaurant Industry Trends - Part 1

What are some restaurant industry trends? According to an article in National Restaurant News, Chicago-based market research firm Technomic Inc. indicated 11 trends including:

1. Increase in Alcoholic Beverages: Higher-end alcoholic drinks, such as retro cocktails and high-end spirits, along with craft beers are gaining popularity in fine dining and independent restaurants.

2. Food Trucks: They're moving into more cities and with a variety of items including healthy and gourmet foods.

3. Farmers and Producers. Farmers and producers are being spokespeople for restaurants, including Domino's with its commercials taking place on a dairy farm.

4. Social Media: New technology and applications, such as iPads and hand-held devices for ordering and table side payment.

5. Korean Influence: Korean barbecue and foods are rising in popularity.

6. Indulgent Menu Items: Consumers who are tired of being frugal will decide to treat themselves with a few indulgent menu items. Restaurants could see an increase in order of high-margin and high-priced point dishes.

7. Value: Opposite of indulgence, consumers will still demand value with everyday items when dining out.

8. Branding: More restaurants will update their brand positioning through remodeling and new formats.

9. Comfort Foods: Consumers continue to turn to comfort foods, such as southern foods and Italian favorites.

10. C-Store Competition: Convenience stores upgrading their food service sections are competition with restaurants.

11. Healthy: There is a move to redo menus to include healthy items.