From rapid digital acceleration to operational reality: how restaurant brands are shifting from growth to execution.
The surge in digital and off-premises ordering has leveled out, giving restaurant brands a clearer, more predictable baseline to operate from. But with that stability comes a new challenge: making the entire ecosystem actually work.
In 2023, the focus has shifted from adding more channels to improving how those channels perform together. Operators are prioritizing order accuracy, kitchen execution, and consistent guest experiences, while reevaluating their technology stacks to reduce complexity and drive efficiency.
At the same time, investment is moving toward foundational systems like cloud POS and unified platforms, while emerging technologies like AI are quickly becoming essential rather than optional. The brands that succeed will be those that can connect their systems, align their teams, and turn data into real-time, actionable decisions.
The 8 Trends Shaping 2023 & Beyond
1. Digital growth finds a predictable groove
Off-prem and digital sales continue to grow, but at a slower, more stable pace, giving brands a clearer path to plan around long-term performance.
2. The off-prem experience hinges on order accuracy
Improving kitchen fulfillment and order accuracy is critical to improving guest satisfaction across digital channels.
3. Technology investments favor platform and cloud
Cloud POS and foundational platforms are now top priorities, signaling a shift toward more scalable, integrated systems.
4. Efficiency and consolidation take center stage
Brands are simplifying their tech stacks and moving toward unified commerce platforms to streamline operations and reduce costs.
5. The shift from point solutions to platforms accelerates
Operators are moving away from fragmented tools in favor of connected platforms that centralize ordering, data, and operations.
6. Alignment across teams becomes critical
IT, operations, and marketing must align on priorities to successfully manage increasingly complex tech ecosystems.
7. AI moves from “nice to have” to “must have”
A majority of brands are actively investing in AI and machine learning to drive smarter decisions and automation.
8. Technology partners are under more scrutiny
Brands are demanding greater transparency, reliability, and support from their technology providers.
