Statistics from the end of 2025 are giving hope for growth in 2026. Recently, Nation’s Restaurant News (NRN) reported that more than half of new jobs last December had roots in the restaurant industry. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the economy opened to more than 50,000 new positions. Though this was lower than rather optimistic estimates, unemployment fell to 4.4%, hopefully securing a strong foundation for these coming months—and at least 27,000 of these jobs went to restaurant employees.
“December marked the sixth consecutive monthly increase in restaurant jobs. Eating and drinking places added nearly 150,000 jobs in total in 2025 despite losing nearly 66,000 jobs during the first two months of the year. The 150,000 jobs added in 2025 were an improvement from 2024, when restaurant payrolls expanded by 129,500 jobs, according to the National Restaurant Association,” wrote Alicia Kelso for NRN.
She continued, “The restaurant industry has grown beyond pre-pandemic employment levels by nearly 230,000 jobs or 1.9%.” The industry seeks to regain over 170,000 jobs to return to pre-pandemic levels. Trends show an upward trajectory still, and QSRs are already there. “Snack and non-alcoholic beverage bar segment, including coffee, doughnut, and ice cream shops, has added 205,000 jobs since February 2020, marking a staggering 25% increase. Quick-service and fast-casual restaurants are 3% higher than pre-pandemic readings.”
Though staggering to imagine, restaurants are still working to reestablish foot holds after the Covid pandemic and related restrictions from more nearly six years ago. But for restaurants struggling to recover, it is reassuring to identify the industry-wide impact—as well as the industry-wide gains. The hospitality industry has been and will continue to be a huge contributor to a recovering economy and customer base.
Richard Weil, owner and principal of National Restaurant Consultants, remains bullish. “Multiple concepts within the industry continue to show growth. The gains of these concepts revolve around addressing and providing quality and price value satisfaction to guests. I believe this will remain the cornerstone for success now and moving forward coupled by always providing genuine hospitality.”