MRM Research Roundup: Cautious Optimism, Beyond the Burn, and the Taylor Swift Economy

14 Min Read By MRM Staff

This edition of Modern Restaurant Management (MRM) magazine's Research Roundup features news of how restaurants are a saving grace for malls, the economic impact of Taylor Swift in town, and how influential reviews can be. Voice of the Restaurant IndustryToast's  2024 Voice of the Restaurant Industry  some insights and data suggesting a cautiously optimistic outlook: profits are rising, with 63 percent reporting increased margins compared to last year. The survey, conducted with 755 decision-makers from full-service to quick-service establishments, challenges the narrative of an industry in distress, instead painting a picture of adaptability and resilience. It also zooms in on current challenges faced by owners/operators, menu prices and inflation, and tech/AI implementation. 

Most Restaurants Increased Sales in 2024 

Approximately 63 percent of restaurant operators that manage finances said their profits in 2024 increased compared to last year. Only…