New report provides operational data on restaurants

New report provides operational data on restaurants

Labor costs represented an elevated share of restaurant outlays as the industry was emerging from the pandemic. That's one of the observations from the 2024 edition of the National Restaurant Association's Restaurant Operations Data Abstract, which was released this week. The Abstract is based on financial and operating data provided by nearly 1,000 restaurant operators nationwide.

Among fullservice respondents to the survey, salaries and wages (including benefits) represented a median of 36.5% of sales in 2022. Salaries and wages (including benefits) represented a median of 34.0% of sales among limited-service survey respondents.

These readings were elevated when compared to previous editions of this report (although the reports are not directly comparable due to different respondent compositions). On average in the 2010, 2013 and 2016 reports, salaries and wages (including benefits) represented approximately 33% of sales among fullservice respondents and approximately 28% of sales among limited-service survey respondents.

The Abstract contains important data for restaurant operators to see how their business compares with those of a similar profile. The information may help sharpen financial performance and quickly identify cost categories where data could substantially vary by type of operation. By analyzing operating costs, restaurant operators may detect potential problems, determine how to manage costs, and become more efficient.

This unique collection of operating data includes specific financial information for the fullservice and limited-service segments. Additionally, the data is presented by attribute including average check size, annual sales volume, size of community and restaurant location.

The 2024 edition of the Restaurant Operations Data Abstract is available for purchase on the Association's website.

Note: The data in the Restaurant Operations Data Abstract is not intended to represent standards or goals for individual restaurants, nor is the report an attempt by the National Restaurant Association to set or adjust industry prices or operating ratios. Rather, the data and related 'Analyze Your Operation' worksheet are intended to be used as management tools to help operators gauge their restaurant's performance.