Modern Restaurant Management (MRM) magazine asked restaurant industry experts for their views on what trends and challenges owners and operators can expect to see in 2026. The evolving definition of value, strategic use of automation, and greater emphasis on experiential dining emerged as prominent themes. For the first part, click here and for the third part, click here. The biggest challenge for operators will be how to navigate uncertainty in the global trade markets and how decisions made by all branches of the government will impact supply chains and pricing volatility. Brands will lean on relationships with suppliers and distributors to mitigate these issues and have solutions in place to ensure proper levels of inventory at stabilized prices. While using technology to streamline operations and cut costs, operators will need to recognize the needs of their guests and create value in their menu. Offering smaller portions, lunch specials and combination menu items that add value will appeal to value minded consumers and families that have less disposable income. Restaurants will turn their focus to engaging with their guests and using social media to connect and communicate their brand increasing their market share and creating loyalty and repeat customers. – Andy Diamond, President of Angry Crab Shack Going into 2026, technology will continue to play a major role across the industry, but the conversation is shifting. It’s no longer about having the newest tech or chasing AI for the sake of it, it’s about using the right tools in ways that actually…
