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Survey: How US restaurants are handling inflation, labor, AI, and revenue growth
Operators are raising menu prices and piloting artificial intelligence as 60% say inflation is hurting business, the survey found.
- A 2026 Restaurant Industry Survey of 676 operators found 91% rate their business health as good or excellent, though inflation and hiring emerged as top challenges, both rising significantly year over year.
- Profitability remains the primary goal for 37% of operators, driving focus on efficiency and growth. Rather than cutting services, restaurants prioritize attracting guests to achieve business objectives amid market pressures.
- Artificial intelligence has become mainstream, with 87% of operators comfortable using the technology. Nearly 9 in 10 restaurants are experimenting with AI tools to improve operational efficiency.
- Operators are pursuing growth by attracting more guests through new service models like catering and online ordering. This strategy reflects commitment to remaining busy and effective rather than reducing staff.
- United States restaurant operators demonstrate continued resilience, maintaining business confidence levels consistent with 2025. Operators are adapting operations to manage inflationary and staffing constraints while preserving service quality.
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18 Articles
thepampanews.com+17 Reposted by 17 other sources
Survey: How US restaurants are handling inflation, labor, AI, and revenue growth
Toast reports that in 2026, 91% of U.S. restaurant operators rate their business as good or excellent, despite challenges like inflation and hiring.
·Pampa, United States
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Total News Sources18
Leaning Left2Leaning Right0Center15Last UpdatedBias Distribution88% Center
Bias Distribution
- 88% of the sources are Center
88% Center
12%
C 88%
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