Five Predictions for 2025 (and How to Prepare)

Continued trepidation. In 2024, restaurant traffic slowed while price sensitivity grew. While October showed signs of hope (YOY quick-service restaurant (QSR) traffic was positive for the first time in two years), we expect consumers will be cautious in 2025. Revenue Management Solutions’ (RMS) Q3 survey revealed that 36 percent of respondents said they plan to dine out less, and a higher percentage reported a decline in dining out across all restaurant segments. Moreover, three out of four respondents believe restaurant prices are higher and high prices are the primary reason for cutting back on restaurant spending.

Recurring customers. Promotions and discounts attract customers, but they’re often short-lived. As seen during the 2024 summer of value, customers quickly move on to other restaurant brands in search of the next deal. Sustained loyalty is the goal in this highly competitive, price-driven market. Nearly 80 percent of our survey respondents are more likely to…