Food Chain - Issue 197 - December 2023 | Page 24

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Quick service restaurants
Among all the industry trends , quick service restaurants ( QSRs ) stand out as one of the most impactful . Once synonymous with fast food and perceived to prioritize speed over quality , today they seamlessly combine speed , convenience , and value with an everincreasing emphasis on quality . This shift is driving the European QSR market to project growth from $ 148.9 billion in 2023 to $ 192.4 billion in 2030 . Their alignment with the fast-paced , convenience-driven lifestyles of modern consumers not only reshapes the QSR image but also substantially expands their market share .
Technological developments
Technology has seamlessly woven itself into the very fabric of the food service industry , revolutionizing a traditionally labor-intensive sector . An expanding array of tools within the restaurant tech ecosystem offers companies a diverse set of resources . Real-time digital inventory management systems now curtail waste and ensure ingredient freshness . Advanced data analytics empower businesses with insights that were unimaginable just a decade ago , enabling them to discern popular dishes at different times of the day and adjust menus efficiently , thereby enhancing supply chain management . This fusion of food and technology opens the door to a transformation in business operations , ushering in new customer expectations .
The rise in online ordering , whether through a restaurant ’ s website or thirdparty platforms , has made businesses more accessible to customers . Since the pandemic , online ordering has surged by 65 percent . Research indicates that by 2030 , food delivery will rank as the second most preferred option for customers , making the adoption of these new technologies imperative . Thankfully , a staggering 94 percent of people in the UK own smartphones , offering a resource-efficient means for businesses to adapt . Smartphone apps not only expedite payments but also support advance table reservations and direct food delivery to homes . As app development progresses , features like loyalty programs and personalized recommendations could soon become commonplace .
Market issues
However , the sector faces a notable challenge with the emergence of labor shortages . The pandemic prompted many workers to exit the industry , leaving restaurateurs grappling to rebuild their teams . In response , businesses are reevaluating their staffing
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