Industry InsightsSTATE OF THE RESTAURANT INDUSTRY
WRA provides accurate, up-to-date information on topics specific to the foodservice industry. WRA members conveniently receive up-to-the-minute news via emails, alerts, e-Newsletters and printed materials as a benefit of membership. |
The Restaurant Industry in Wisconsin
INDEPENDENT SPIRIT
Most restaurants are independently owned small businesses owned and operated by hardworking individuals and families who have a passion for providing good food and warm hospitality. TIGHT MARGINS Restaurant operators face many hurdles including extremely narrow margins, unpredictable food costs and being a highly labor-intensive industry. PROVIDING JOBS AND OPPORTUNITY Restaurants are a driving force in Wisconsin’s economy. They provide jobs and build careers for thousands of people. The restaurant industry is one of the largest private industry employers in Wisconsin and ranks among the fastest growing industries in the state. THE CORNERSTONES OF COMMUNITIES Restaurants are an important part of their communities, typically giving of their time and resources as leaders and supporters of a variety of causes to make a positive difference. |
BASIC STATS
Statistics provided by the National Restaurant Association For national restaurant industry stats, visit https://restaurant.org/research-and-media/research/industry-statistics/ Check our Press Releases section for results of the latest surveys of Wisconsin Restaurants. |
2024 State of the Restaurant Industry Report
On February 6, 2024 , The National Restaurant Association released its 2024 State of the Restaurant Industry report, which examines key factors impacting the industry including the current state of the economy, operations, workforce, and food and menu trends to forecast sales and market trends for the year ahead. The report is an authoritative look at the industry and its opportunities based on a range of national surveys of restaurant owners, operators, chefs and consumers.
The 2024 State of the Restaurant Industry report is free to Wisconsin Restaurant Association restaurateur members ($349 for non-members). WRA members wishing to access the report, need to log into the National Restaurant Association Store before downloading the report. There’s a login link in the bar at the top. If you experience difficulties accessing the report for free, email [email protected] to request to be linked to your company's membership record.
The 2024 State of the Restaurant Industry report is free to Wisconsin Restaurant Association restaurateur members ($349 for non-members). WRA members wishing to access the report, need to log into the National Restaurant Association Store before downloading the report. There’s a login link in the bar at the top. If you experience difficulties accessing the report for free, email [email protected] to request to be linked to your company's membership record.
The Changing Restaurant Technology LandscapeThe National Restaurant Association’s Restaurant Technology Landscape Report 2024 looks at how operators are relying on tech to boost their bottom line. Download this report for insights on how to match tech investments to the customer base you serve.
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“Being a member gives me the comfort of knowing that WRA resources are available on almost every issue, problem or concern that I may face as a restaurant owner.”
– DAVID FLANNERY, OWNER APPLE HOLLER RESTAURANT, STURTEVANT
What's Hot 2024 Culinary ForecastThis year’s What’s Hot Culinary Forecast draws on the expertise of more than 1,500 culinary professionals who were asked to rank 120 items in 7 categories:
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What they said: Consumers want to sample—and share through social media—new foods and flavors from other regions, both domestic and international but in a form that’s recognizable, comforting and, often, communal. Soups & stews, grilled cheeses, global wings and international BBQ top this year’s trends list, along with integrating social media into menu marketing. Beverages that boost energy and health are on trend, while botanical cocktails star at the bar.
The What’s Hot Culinary Forecast presents the top 10 Hot Trends overall, the top trends in each category, trends the pros see as emerging in each category and macro trends shaping menus, operations and marketing.
Is your menu trending? Download your free copy of the report today!
The What’s Hot Culinary Forecast presents the top 10 Hot Trends overall, the top trends in each category, trends the pros see as emerging in each category and macro trends shaping menus, operations and marketing.
Is your menu trending? Download your free copy of the report today!
Facts at a Glance
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Keep up with all of the latest news in the restaurant industry and stay up to date with what's happening on our news & alerts page. |