Restaurant Sales and Traffic Decline Amid Economic Stagnation

Restaurant Sales and Traffic Decline Amid Economic Stagnation

According to a recent National Restaurant Association survey, fewer consumers are dining out, reflecting broader concerns over stagnant economic growth. The data highlights a troubling trend for the restaurant industry, as both sales and customer traffic continue to suffer.

The survey’s latest findings show a noticeable uptick in sales declines. In November, 44% of restaurant operators reported lower sales, an increase from 35% in October. This marks a continuing downward shift in the industry's performance, signaling potential challenges ahead.

At the same time, customer traffic showed a similar downward trend. Only 30% of respondents reported an increase in foot traffic between November 2024 and November 2025, a decline from 33% in October. Additionally, more than half of the operators, 51%, reported a decrease in customer visits during November, compared to 48% in the previous month.

November marked the 10th consecutive month in which restaurant operators have reported a net decline in customer traffic, underscoring the ongoing challenges faced by the industry.

These findings suggest that the impact of slow economic growth is taking a significant toll on consumer behavior, with fewer people willing or able to dine out regularly. The restaurant sector, like many others, may face a difficult road ahead as it adapts to these changing consumer patterns.