As the trade war continues, most restaurateurs are concerned with the current economic climate, and 70 per cent of restaurants are already experiencing tariff-related cost impacts. Recent research indicates that operators are most worried about food costs (86 per cent), tariffs (63 per cent), and the inability to increase menu prices (63 per cent). What […]
Restaurant operators are so busy in their day-to-day that it’s easy to focus on the finer details and lose sight of the big picture. With all the things that need to be done, from scheduling to ordering to managing operations and beyond, it can be tough to stay on top of some of the important […]
This year, 68 percent of consumers have chosen to cook at home, rather than ordering from a restaurant, so the competition for diner dollars has become even fiercer. What are diners looking for from their favourite restaurants in 2025, and how can restaurants best deliver on those expectations? Value Given that 2024 featured a value-conscious […]
Patio season is here, and many operators are busy getting their outdoor spaces ready to welcome the season’s patio-goers. Are diners looking to share a meal with their pets? Can operators get ahead of the competition by targeting this segment of the market? This year’s season may look a little different: solo dining is on the […]
The evolution of restaurant technology in recent years has included everything from AI to robotics, making futuristic improvements to labour management, service, operations, and beyond. Are you considering adding robotics and automation to your restaurant operations? Recent studies have shown that consumers are looking for more automation from restaurants in general, believing that restaurant tech […]
Mother’s Day is around the corner, and last year the occasion took top spot for Canada’s most popular day for dining, up 17 per cent, with experiences seeing a 52 per cent increase in celebrations over the previous year. This year, 50 per cent of Canadians are planning to dine out this Mother’s Day, but […]
Eatertainment has grown in popularity over the last few years, as diners continue to look for more than just a great menu from their favourite restaurants. Likely stemming from post-pandemic desire to make the most of spending time together, eatertainment emerged as a way for diners to maximize memories, experiences, and socializing. After filing for […]
In the past, customer experience simply meant great food and service, but with today’s economic challenges and the demand for higher value, the bar has been raised. Customer experience (CX) is the great differentiator, allowing operators to set themselves apart and grow their brand, building loyalty and increasing repeat visits. The recent Patronix 2025 Loyalty […]
Tipping has become a controversial issue in recent years as “tipflation” increases and more consumers complain of experiencing “tip fatigue.” Customers are still tipping, but totals are declining, with 30 per cent of this year’s customers tipping restaurant servers 10 per cent or less, up 19 per cent from last year. How are customers feeling […]
Nostalgia has been a recurring theme on restaurant menus over the years, offering familiar comfort food to meet diner demand. However, many diners are also looking to try new things, with 55 per cent of diners searching for “something new” on restaurant menus, including unique ingredients, foods, and dishes. How can you strike a balance […]
