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The restaurant industry is expected to achieve $1.5 trillion in sales in 2025, with the addition of over 200,000 new jobs, bringing total employment to nearly 16 million, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://restaurant.org/research-and-media/research/research-reports/state-of-the-industry/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=restaurant-industry-set-to-hit-15-trillion-in-sales-in-2025-despite-economic-pressures-2728570" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">the National Restaurant Association’s 2025 State of the Industry report</a>.&nbsp;This growth follows a difficult year marked by rising costs, labor shortages and declining customer traffic. Many operators still carry pandemic-related debt, and inflation continues to impact expenses, with food and labor costs rising over 30% since 2019. Despite these challenges, optimism remains high, with 82% of restaurant operators anticipating stable or increased sales in 2025. However, competition is intensifying, particularly in the quick-service and full-service segments.<a href="https://1851franchise.com/the-future-of-restaurant-franchising-trends-and-predictions-for-2025-2728448">Consumer behavior is shifting</a>, with a strong focus on value and loyalty programs. Many restaurants are introducing new promotions and discounts to attract cost-conscious diners, particularly in the quick-service and fast-casual segments. Loyalty programs are increasingly influencing customer choices, particularly in delivery.&nbsp;Additionally, in-person dining is regaining priority, with full-service and even quick-service restaurants emphasizing the importance of on-premises experiences. However, economic pressures continue to weigh on consumers, with many struggling to maintain their lifestyles due to inflation and shrinking savings. While inflation is expected to ease slightly, economic uncertainty may still affect restaurant spending.<a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchisees-battle-inflation-and-slowing-demand-amid-rising-operational-costs-2727280">Labor challenges</a> are improving but remain a concern. Although workforce availability has stabilized, hiring remains difficult, especially for back-of-house roles in full-service restaurants and management positions in quick-service establishments. While job growth is expected in the long term, potential economic downturns could force some operators to reduce staffing.&nbsp;Meanwhile, restaurants are&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/technology-in-restaurant-franchises-how-tech-is-changing-the-dining-landscape-2724124">increasing technology investments</a> to enhance productivity and customer experiences. Key areas of focus include digital marketing, cybersecurity, workforce management and AI integration. Many brands are adopting contactless ordering and payment systems, self-service kiosks and smartphone apps to streamline operations and improve efficiency.Read the full National Restaurant Association’s 2025 State of the Industry report&nbsp;<a href="https://restaurant.org/research-and-media/research/research-reports/state-of-the-industry/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=restaurant-industry-set-to-hit-15-trillion-in-sales-in-2025-despite-economic-pressures-2728570" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">here</a>.&nbsp;For more insights and expert advice on how to choose a restaurant franchise, visit 1851 Franchise and explore our Top Restaurant Franchises for 2025 issue.

Restaurant Industry Projected to Reach $1.5 Trillion in Sales by 2025

1851 Franchise

Operators remain optimistic as value-driven dining, loyalty programs and in-person experiences fuel growth, even as inflation, labor costs and competition pose ongoing challenges.

Restaurant Industry Set to Hit $1.5 Trillion in Sales in 2025 Despite Economic Pressures

restaurant-industry-set-to-hit-15-trillion-in-sales-in-2025-despite-economic-pressures

Layne's Chicken Fingers

Layne's Chicken Fingers - Alex Camp - VP Operations - 1851 Franchise

Layne’s Chicken Fingers Promotes Alex Camp to VP of Operations Services Amidst Record Growth

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Senior Care Authority

Senior Care Authority Franchise - EOY 2025 - 2026 Momentum - 1851 Franchise

2025 in Review: How the Senior Care Authority Franchise Expanded Its Impact and Supported Families Nationwide

senior-care-authority-2025-review

Mellow Mushroom

Mellow Mushroom -  EOY 2025 - 2026 Momentum -1851 Franchise

Mellow Mushroom Franchise Finishes 2025 With Expanded Kitchen Tech and a Clear Development Plan for 2026

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Jollibee

Jollibee Franchise - South Florida Market - 1851 Franchise

Why Jollibee Is Targeting Florida for Franchise Growth

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Top 5 Reasons To Invest in Jollibee in 2026 - 1851 Franchise

Top 5 Reasons To Consider Investing in Jollibee in 2026

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Restaurant Industry Set to Hit $1.5 Trillion in Sales in 2025 Despite Economic Pressures

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