Quick-Service Sales Rebound, Fast Casual Slides in January

The restaurant industry is bouncing back after a crude end to 2016 the restaurant industry is bouncing back in 2017. January’s jump of 4.3 percentage points was the biggest month-to-month improvement in same-store sales growth in almost four years. Three segments experienced positive sales growth in January: upscale casual, family dining and quick service.

Key Takeaways:

• January’s jump of 4.3 percentage points was the biggest month-to-month improvement in same-store sales growth in almost four years.
• On one hand, it is common to see some large swings in comp sales during the winter, as significant weather events create fluctuating year-over-year comparisons.
• In addition to weather, there were unusual events in January that likely had some impact on restaurant sales. The year started with a federal holiday on January 2, which was unlike 2016.

“January sales declined in fine dining and fast casual. For the first time in over five years, fast casual was the weakest performing segment based on sales growth.”

https://www.qsrmagazine.com/news/quick-service-sales-rebound-fast-casual-slides-january