SpotOn Finds 91% of Operators Cite Inflation as a Major Challenge, But Smart Strategies and the Right Tools Can Protect Profits

SpotOn's Upcoming 2025 Financial Report Reveals How Inflation, Labor Costs, and Economic Uncertainty Are Reshaping the Restaurant Industry and Outlines Solutions to Navigate

SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Independent restaurant operators are bracing for another tough year as inflation, labor costs and economic uncertainty continue to squeeze profit margins, according to early insights from SpotOn's upcoming 2025 Independent Restaurant Financial Report, set to launch on March 3, 2025. SpotOn, a leading software and payments provider for restaurants, surveyed 200 independent restaurant operators across the U.S. revealing the top financial pressures shaping the industry and insight into how operators can stay ahead in a challenging economic climate.

Economic Uncertainty Facing Independent Restaurants

• 94% of operators say high interest rates are impacting their business, making it more expensive to borrow money or refinance debt.
• 91% cite inflation as a major challenge, with food and labor costs continuing to rise.
• More than 90% of operators are concerned about changes in consumer spending habits, making demand harder to predict.
• Only 15% of operators say they can easily access key cost projections, leaving many without a clear financial picture.

"Rising costs are a reality, but restaurants don't have to tackle them alone," said Kevin Bryla, Chief Marketing Officer at SpotOn. "With real-time data and automation, operators can gain control over their margins, anticipate cost fluctuations and make informed decisions that drive profitability. Running a restaurant is tough, but the right tools can make all the difference—giving operators the clarity, confidence and control over their financial future."

How SpotOn Helps Independent Restaurants Stay Ahead

The full report will provide deeper insights on financial tracking gaps, pricing challenges, and funding opportunities, but early findings make one thing clear: operators need smarter, data-driven tools to manage costs and protect their profits. SpotOn's technology solutions offer real-time financial tracking, automated reporting, and revenue-boosting features to help restaurants navigate rising costs:

• Advanced Reporting & Insights: SpotOn's cloud-based restaurant POS system delivers real-time financial data, automated reporting, and insights so operators can spot cost changes early and adjust before it's too late.
• Labor & Scheduling Management: SpotOn Teamwork helps operators keep labor costs in check with automated scheduling, payroll prep, and real-time insights on labor costs.
• Handheld POS Devices: Handhelds increase table turns, reduce labor costs, and boost revenue by enabling servers to cover more tables and fire orders instantly from the table.
• Online Ordering & Delivery Integration: SpotOn's commission-free online ordering reduces third-party fees while driving revenue and streamlining operations by integrating online orders directly into the POS system—no manual entry, no missed sales.
• Reservations & Waitlist Management: SpotOn Reserve optimizes table management and reduces wait times to maximize covers and enhance the guest experience.

SpotOn's 2025 Independent Restaurant Financial Report will be released on March 3, 2025, offering in-depth analysis, expert insights, and actionable strategies for independent restaurant operators looking to stay competitive in today's economic landscape.

About SpotOn
SpotOn is one of the leading software and payment companies, providing the technology and support that helps local businesses—and the people who run them—to succeed on their own terms. Known for its flexible, cloud-based technology and personalized support, SpotOn offers an end-to-end platform to accept payments, boost revenue, streamline operations, and create exceptional guest experiences. From seamless and efficient point-of-sale systems to integrated restaurant management solutions, SpotOn builds technology that "works the way you work" and backs it up with a 24/7 team of experts that make sure it always does—with fairness, flexibility, and a personal touch. For more information, visit www.spoton.com.

Media Contact:
Megan Palmer
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SOURCE SpotOn