Smarter Not Smaller: How Restaurants Are Navigating Economic Headwinds

In order to address ongoing economic strains, more restaurant operators are choosing to strategically use technology and data to become "smarter, not smaller." This approach focuses on targeted investments in technology designed to yield measurable benefits, helping them build more resilient and profitable businesses.

"Operators are investing in tools that deliver fast, measurable ROI," Samir Zabaneh, CEO of TouchBistro, told Modern Restaurant Management (MRM) magazine. "That means smarter scheduling, streamlined menus, better inventory control, and automation that frees staff to focus on hospitality. It's no longer about cutting corners, it's about running tighter, tech-driven operations that make every dollar count."

Data: A Backbone of Restaurant SuccessData has become indispensable for restaurant success. Operators are moving beyond reactive measures, proactively using insights to optimize every facet of their operations.

"Restaurateurs are using data to guide everyday…