If foodservice operators can have a clear view of the future – both in the food and beverage industry and the U.S. economy as a whole – they can enter a new year a step ahead.
As 2025 approaches, Datassential, in partnership with IFMA, has unveiled our 2025 Industry Forecast to give foodservice operators a clearer view into the year ahead. From overall industry growth assumptions, segment-by-segment forecasting for consumer and operator spending, projected growth rates through 2026, and segment-specific insights.
If you’re a Datassential subscriber, view the full 2025 Industry Forecast report. If you’re not a subscriber, check out our 2025 Foodservice Industry Forecast webinar featuring highlights and ask about how you can get access to the full report here.
Now let’s jump into the numbers:
Foodservice Growth in 2025
The foodservice industry is expected to see real growth of 1.0% in 2025, which is on top of dollar growth due to inflationary price increases.
This growth is driven by expected overall Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth and a continued strong labor market. Inflation has started to fall, and we expect that by 2025, it will have leveled out. This means that nominal growth for the industry overall will be the smallest we have seen since the pandemic.
Growth for the industry will come from across segments with slightly lower real growth projected for restaurants overall (0.8%) than for retail (1.3%) or on-site (1.4%).
Consumer spending on prepared food and non-alcoholic beverages is projected to reach $921.7 billion in 2025, from $895.1 billion in 2024. By segment, a bulk of that – $323.7 billion – is projected to be spent in QSR. The next-highest segment spending is forecast in casual dining, at $153.8 billion, followed by fast-casual at $81.5 billion.
Operator spending is projected to hit $323.6 billion. By segment, QSR and casual dining are expected to lead that investment, at $84.2 billion and $58.4 billion, respectively, followed by supermarket prepared, at $26.7 billion.