Independent restaurant operators are bracing for another tough year as inflation, labor costs and economic uncertainty continue to squeeze profit margins, according to early insights from SpotOn’s upcoming 2025 Independent Restaurant Financial Report.
"Rising costs are a reality, but restaurants don’t have to tackle them alone," says Kevin Bryla, chief marketing officer at SpotOn. "With real-time data and automation, operators can gain control over their margins, anticipate cost fluctuations and make informed decisions that drive profitability. Running a restaurant is tough, but the right tools can make all the difference—giving operators the clarity, confidence and control over their financial future."
Key takeaways:
- 94% of operators say high interest rates are impacting their business, making it more expensive to borrow money or refinance debt.
- 91% cite inflation as a major challenge, with food and labor costs continuing to rise.
- More than 90% of operators are concerned about changes in consumer spending habits, making demand harder to predict.
- Only 15% of operators say they can easily access key cost projections, leaving many without a clear financial picture.
