The Future Of Restaurants: Accessing New Opportunities

Anyone who has been a part of the restaurant industry will tell you there is no such thing as a "normal" or "typical" day. One year ago, restaurants across the world took a major hit as complete lockdowns and restrictions went into effect. With no manual or benchmarks on how to navigate through the COVID-19 pandemic, restaurant owners, operators, and staff had to quickly adapt to the changes and new rules with fast thinking, hard work, and creativity.

The world reacted to the initial pandemic in a short amount of time. Fine dining establishments became the number one location for takeout meals, manufacturers for menus made shields, and more dining room employees were trained to use the drive-thru. Years' worth of thoughtful evolution was expected to be learned in a short period of time.

Though each area of the restaurant industry has experienced a different set of challenges, the amount of frustrations and stress has been the same. However, restaurateurs have been able to grow from that initial stretch when restrictions and changes were first implemented. There have been many strides that have been made to remain open.

Many remain hopeful for a bigger, brighter, and safer future. Vaccines, grants, budget proposed aid, and more are all contributing to the future of restaurants. 

Outdoor Dining

With the loss of indoor dining revenue, more restaurants began to introduce outdoor dining. However, outdoor dining was not as appealing in the winter months. Indoor dining became exclusive and some small establishments were only allowed to bring in a small percentage of customers. Restaurants that were able to accommodate outdoor dining in the winter months were hit with various expenses that were needed to sustain the transition to outdoor dining. Even after we reach herd immunity, we predict many restaurants will continue and expand outdoor dining options.

Safe and Private Dining

Today, restaurants are still adjusting to how customers want to navigate their physical space. This means many restaurants will decide to update their seating plans by setting tables at least 6 feet apart to remain in line with social distancing recommendations. Reimagining a new layout or seating plan can be challenging, but a plan that reflects the new layout will help employees and customers adapt to the new layout. 

Some high-end restaurant chefs will continue offering private and safe dining services to maintain a steady income. This will be a safe way for customers to enjoy a high-end and private experience. It is predicted that this type of dining experience will become more popular as we continue to move forward. 

Delivery and Carry-Out

Another impactful shift in the restaurant industry during this transition has been the popularity of carry-out and delivery services. Due to the popularity of these services, many customers have grown accustomed to enjoying restaurant-quality food from their homes. Many restaurants will continue to offer delivery and carry-out services even after the pandemic. 

Although restrictions have impacted all areas of the restaurant industry, the ability to meet the demands of consumers by utilizing the tools and technology around you has been a silver lining. Digital ordering has also been impactful for restaurants. We anticipate digital ordering, take out, delivery, etc. will continue for years to come because of the positive impact they are currently having in the industry. 

As restaurants around the world have seen in the past year, only offering customers one way to dine can leave restaurant owners unprepared for another disruption. Given the past and current environments of COVID-19 restrictions and reopenings, JI Bases has remained open throughout the struggles of the pandemic. 

While delivery, drive-thru, and takeout are becoming popular sales channel alternatives, restaurateurs will continue exploring new and innovative ways to improve dine-in experiences. To prepare for table service in the new reality for the restaurant industry, restaurants will need to adapt their business. 

It is no secret that the pandemic has significantly changed the landscape and future of the restaurant industry. While restaurants are still facing challenges, there is also more access to new opportunities. 

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