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The Daily Insight

How is Covid-19 affecting the restaurant industry?

Author

Mia Ramsey

Published Mar 31, 2026

As the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases soared in February and March 2020, a greater share of restaurant operators reported lower same-store sales compared to the same period last year. While some restaurants remain open for delivery and takeout, many have laid-off workers or cut back staff hours to zero.

Is the restaurant industry stable?

Moody’s Investors Service has changed its outlook for the US restaurant industry to stable from negative, in a report published today. The rating agency’s analysts expect operating profit to decline by more than 30% this year due to coronavirus-related business restrictions, and grow by around 15% in 2021.

What is the latest trend in restaurants?

For a more in-depth look at these 2021 retail industry trends, download the full report.

  • #1: Contactless ordering and delivery is here to stay.
  • #2: More restaurants will diversify revenue streams.
  • #3: Kitchen automation is a priority.
  • #4: More direct orders coming through.
  • #5: Enhancing experiences to build customer loyalty.

How much is the restaurant industry worth 2020?

Restaurant industry sales will reach $889 billion in 2020 with a 4% growth rate, says National Restaurant Association.

How hard is the restaurant business?

Running a restaurant is hard work. Which probably explains why the restaurant failure rate is at 60% in the first year. And 80% of restaurants don’t make it past 4. It’s often because they’re ignoring one or many of the signs a restaurant is failing, or they’re making a variety of mistakes.

How competitive is the restaurant industry?

The restaurant industry is fiercely competitive and operates on notoriously tight margins. Success or failure can hinge on your ability to develop competitive advantages and offer your customers something they cannot get from your competitors.

What are the top 10 restaurant trends in 2021?

9 restaurant industry trends in 2021

  • Pop-up restaurants.
  • Ghost kitchens.
  • Delivery options.
  • Strengthen online presence.
  • Green kitchens and environmental concerns.
  • The rise of vegan cuisine.
  • Non-alcoholic cocktails.
  • Self-serve & Grab-and-Go.

How much does the restaurant industry make in 2020?

The industry ended 2020 with total sales around $659 billion, or $240 billion below the association’s pre-pandemic forecast–underscoring the effects of a relentless virus that has caused 110,000-plus closures, shifted operational models entirely and created deep trepidation about dining out.

How do you compete in a food business?

Effective Ways To Beat Restaurant Competition And Increase Your Revenues

  1. Know your Competition.
  2. Price The Menu Right.
  3. Sell Your USP.
  4. Train Your Staff To Deliver Exceptional Service.
  5. Make Use Of Technology.
  6. Market Your Restuarant Well.
  7. Check The Quality Of Food.

What is the competitive advantage of restaurant?

Competitive advantage refers to one or more qualities, attributes, or aspects of your restaurant’s food, beverages, service and ambiance that makes you a preferred choice within your market, when compared to other existing competitors or options (such as grocery stores).