MRM Research Roundup: Valentine and Galentine Momentum, Brand Value, and Cautious Optimism

This edition of Modern Restaurant Management (MRM) magazine's Research Roundup features projected industry growth, independent restaurant challenges, flavor trends, plate waste, Valentine's and Galentine's spend, and cold weather impact.Modest Growth ExpectedAmerica’s restaurant industry is poised for a year of measured growth, though a cooling labor market, persistent cost pressures, and cautious household spending will continue to challenge operator margins. According to the National Restaurant Association’s 2026 State of the Restaurant Industry report, total restaurant and foodservice sales are projected to reach $1.55 trillion and restaurant operators are forecast to add more than 100,000 jobs.

This projected growth reflects an industry navigating a mixed economic landscape: operators are facing uneven traffic and elevated operating expenses, while consumers – particularly those in lower- and middle-income households – are increasingly stretched. Even so…