Understanding key restaurant industry indicators
Our team of economists navigates the often-conflicting signals found in U.S. and industry data, distilling this information to identify trends and provide meaningful insights for restaurant and foodservice operators, as well as the general public.
Blog
Explore the latest from the Association team.
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Research
New Association report provides a demographic profile of the restaurant workforce
April 15, 2025Restaurant employees tend to be younger and more diverse than the overall U.S. workforce. -
Research
Imports Jump to Record High in January in Anticipation of New Tariffs
March 06, 2025The U.S. trade deficit soared in January, likely on front-loading of possible tariffs. -
Research
Cost of Living Comparisons Around the Country for 2023
December 13, 2024Regional price parity indices can be helpful in assessing cost-of-living differences around the country. -
Research
Overview of Food and Beverage Commodity Imports from Canada, Mexico and China
November 26, 2024Overview of Food and Beverage Commodity Imports from Canada, Mexico and China -
Research
Census Survey Affirms: Extreme Weather Causes Major Disruptions for Restaurants
November 18, 2024The Census Bureau's Business Trends and Outlook Survey provides interesting insights on the impact of extreme weather on restaurants. -
Research
Health Insurance Costs Rose 7% in 2024
October 09, 2024 -
Research
ISM: Service-Sector Growth Strengthened in September
October 03, 2024 -
Research
Restaurant Job Openings Rose in August, a Sign of Lingering Resilience in an Otherwise Cooling Labor Market
October 01, 2024 -
Research
The Federal Reserve Cut Rates for the First Time Post-Pandemic
September 18, 2024 -
Research
Restaurant Hiring Rebounded in July, but Job Openings and Labor Market Cooled Significantly
September 04, 2024