2021 State of the Restaurant Industry Mid-Year Update

Where is the industry at the mid-year mark?

Analysis of the latest economic data and surveys of restaurant operators and adult consumers reveal:

• 3 in 4 operators say recruitment and retention is their toughest challenge despite employment gains.
• Restaurant sales are trending higher.
• Wholesale food prices are trending sharply higher. A first in its 54-year history, the Bureau of Labor Statistics index registered gains above
• 2% in 3 consecutive months.
• Menu prices are increasing due to sharply higher food, labor and fuel costs.
• Case rise of the COVID-19 delta variant is impacting restaurant visits.

Also included: The updated sales forecast for 2021.