 We've almost made it to the end of an incredibly challenging, often scary and exhausting year. It goes without saying that 2020 has done irreparable damage to the restaurant industry, and it's likely the segment will be feeling the lingering effects of pandemic disruption well into 2021 — and maybe even beyond.
Like you, we're ready to pop the champagne and ring in a new — and hopefully kinder — year. But before we look ahead, let's take stock of the policy shifts, innovation strategies and new technology that have shaped an industry in crisis.
Restaurant Dive's Top Trends of 2020 showcase how the coronavirus pandemic accelerated existing trends at breakneck speed. The ghost kitchen market has grown "5 years in 3 months," offering restaurants in distress a low-cost model to capture skyrocketing delivery demand and a way for major chains to quickly expand into new markets. Major chains launched plans for off-premise-focused store models equipped with smaller footprints, more advanced drive-thrus and digital integrations.
Restaurant relationships with employees and franchisees also changed. A wave of companies rolled out paid sick leave for the first time, with others offering temporary family and educational support as well. And major chains developed new tactics to keep operators healthy, shrinking menu sizes, reducing store hours and sending personal protective equipment to stores across the country.
Wondering if these trends could stick around, and what else 2021 has in store? After a publishing break for the holidays, we'll be back in your inboxes on Jan. 4 with 2021 trends coverage. Between now and then, we’ll update our website with any major industry news.
As we enter into 2021, we kindly ask that you consider sharing our newsletter with your teammates and colleagues, to help them stay more informed in the new year. Share this link to get them signed up: www.restaurantdive.com/signup/insiders/signup/?signup_referred_by=5f93078d7aa51972095c9316
Wishing you a happy and healthy New Year!
 Emma Liem Beckett
Editor, Restaurant Dive
Twitter | Email With sales down to 2016 levels, restaurants have a lot of ground to make up, but pent-up demand for dining in is still high and technological innovations can help bring consumers back. |
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From hosting daily calls to providing need-to-know information, restaurants are working closely with operators to adapt to market changes as the pandemic progresses. | Featured Resources FROM: Grubhub | Top Restaurant Trends of 2021 | | | |
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