Seven for ’17: Key Business Issues Impacting the Restaurant Industry this Year

As we're in the first quarter of 2017 ushering in a new president and administration, the restaurant industry continues to face a number of challenges driven by legislation as well as marketplace dynamics. Here are seven issues that we believe rise to the top in their potential impact on the industry

Wages and BenefitsA rise in the minimum wage affects many businesses, including restaurants. In addition, the new administration in Washington has also vowed to significantly change – or eliminate – the Affordable Care Act. The changes to the minimum wage are clear.  Not so for the Affordable Care Act.  

Changes to the minimum wage are being implemented at state level including changes to the tip credit.  Currently, 33 states have adopted minimum wages for tipped employees that compensate employees at a rate other than required under the federal Fair Labor Standards Act.

Restaurant owners are likely to respond to increasing labor costs by implementing cost reduction measures…