The restaurant industry moves at lightning speed. With new technologies, evolving consumer expectations, and the lingering effects of the pandemic, it's nearly impossible for restaurant operators and those in food and beverage to keep up. And with packed schedules, who has time to spend hours each day studying the latest trends?
That’s where this curated list comes in. We’ve compiled the most up-to-date, data-driven insights to give you a real-time snapshot of the rapid evolutions shaping the restaurant landscape. Whether you’re a full-service restaurant, a fast-casual chain, or managing a delivery-heavy operation, these statistics will help you stay ahead in a competitive market—without spending hours digging through reports.
Now, let’s dive into the key trends and data points reshaping the industry.
Full-Service Restaurant Technology
In full-service restaurants, technology is primarily seen as a convenience enhancer rather than a replacement for human interaction. While traditional service is still valued, especially by older generations, younger consumers are more open to tech solutions that streamline the dining experience, such as digital payments and ordering systems.
- 65% of full-service customers would use a tablet to pay the check.
- 63% of customers would place an order using a smartphone app.
- 62% of full-service customers would use contactless or mobile payment options.
- 57% would pay using a digital wallet (e.g., Apple Pay, Google Wallet).
- 59% would access the menu using a QR code.
- Only 13% of restaurant operators think their use of technology is "leading edge."
- 57% of all full-service restaurants in the US offer on-premise outdoor dining.
- 50% of restaurants added new products and/or services due to the pandemic.
- 81% of independent restaurants still use traditional legacy POS systems despite adopting other tech solutions.
- 73% of diners agree that restaurant technology improves their experience.
The data reflects a gradual shift toward tech-driven solutions that enhance convenience, particularly among younger diners. Full-service restaurants are responding by incorporating options like digital payments and online menus while maintaining the traditional human elements of dining.
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Limited-Service Restaurant Technology
Limited-service restaurants, such as fast food and coffee shops, have seen a significant rise in technology adoption. Customers expect faster and more efficient service, with many opting for self-service technologies like kiosks, smartphone apps, and online ordering systems.
- 70% of limited-service customers would use a smartphone app to order.
- 65% would pay through a self-service kiosk.
- 57% would access a menu via QR code.
- 42% of limited-service operators plan to invest in contactless payment options in 2024.
- 53% of limited-service restaurants offer on-premise outdoor dining.
- One in four restaurants adopted online ordering.
- 79% of consumers anticipate using technology to place orders at casual eateries.
The demand for technology in limited-service restaurants is largely driven by the desire for faster, more efficient service. Younger generations, in particular, expect seamless ordering and payment experiences through digital means.
Delivery Services
The pandemic accelerated the adoption of delivery services, with digital platforms becoming the preferred method of ordering food. Customers now expect convenience, quality, and seamless payment options, with many preferring to order directly from a restaurant’s website or app.
- 84% of delivery customers would order via a restaurant's website.
- 80% would use a smartphone app for delivery.
- 79% prefer contactless payment options for delivery.
- 53% of adult consumers say that buying delivery or takeout is essential to their current lifestyle.
- Delivery customers spend 10% more on delivery orders than takeout orders.
- 65% of delivery customers care about food quality when ordering delivery.
The shift toward delivery services is profound, with customers willing to spend more on deliveries than takeout. This trend emphasizes the importance of maintaining high-quality food and user-friendly digital ordering systems.
Operator Investments in Technology
Restaurant operators are increasingly recognizing the value of technology in enhancing customer experiences and streamlining operations. Investments are being made across various categories, from digital marketing to contactless payments and labor management systems.
- 76% of operators believe technology provides a competitive edge.
- 50% invested in service productivity in 2023; 55% plan to do so in 2024.
- 63% plan to invest in digital or location-based marketing in 2024.
- 57% plan to invest in loyalty/reward systems.
- Almost 6 out of 7 restaurants made new investments in 2021.
- 26% of food businesses consider themselves tech-forward after the pandemic.
- 313% increase in sales from digital ordering platforms after the onset of the pandemic.
- 38% of restaurant owners plan to automate administrative tasks to boost staff productivity.
- 95% of restaurateurs agree that restaurant technology improves their business efficiency.
These statistics highlight the growing focus on leveraging technology to improve customer experiences and operational efficiency. Operators are making strategic investments in areas such as digital marketing, loyalty programs, and self-service technologies to remain competitive in the evolving landscape.
Technology and Labor Solutions
Labor shortages continue to challenge the restaurant industry, and technology is viewed as a potential solution to bridge the gap. Automation, scheduling systems, and other labor management technologies are becoming more prevalent, helping restaurants optimize their workforce and improve efficiency.
- 47% of operators believe technology will help address labor shortages in 2024.
- 37% of operators plan to invest in automated labor management systems in 2024.
- 62% of restaurants lack the necessary staff to meet demand.
- 73% of diners agree that server handheld tablets improve their guest experience.
As restaurants look to address labor challenges, many are turning to technology solutions that can automate certain tasks and streamline operations, allowing staff to focus on more critical aspects of service.