The findings highlight the widening gap between tighter guest budgets and operators’ increased adoption of technology, highlighting how digital platforms are becoming essential infrastructure rather than optional enhancements.
Read the full report here: Popmenu Toolkit: Restaurant Trends to Watch in 2026
Consumer spending falls and focus on digital efficiency rises
According to the survey, 68% of U.S. consumers say they will eat less at restaurants this year, prioritizing affordability and convenience. Average weekly restaurant spending fell to about $90 in February 2026, down $25 from June 2025 levels.
This change requires operators to become more precise and efficient in how they attract, convert, and retain guests. Technology plays a central role. Nearly all restaurants surveyed (97%) said they are increasing their focus on guest experience, with many implementing new digital ordering options, AI-driven tools, and automated engagement platforms.
Despite the economic headwinds, restaurateurs are cautiously optimistic. 63% said they are optimistic about business prospects, and 28% plan to open new stores or expand existing ones. These expansion plans increasingly rely on scalable, cloud-based technology platforms that enable centralized control across multiple locations.
Accelerating AI adoption across marketing, operations, and guest engagement
Artificial intelligence is quickly becoming a core component of restaurant technology stacks. The survey found that 44% of operators are already using AI in their business, and a further 25% plan to implement AI tools this year.
AI applications span a wide range of use cases, including automated marketing content generation, operational optimization, and customer engagement. More than half (55%) of operators are using AI to create marketing content, increasing the frequency and personalization of communications while reducing labor demands.
Carriers are also investing in digital infrastructure to ensure visibility in emerging search channels. While 85% of consumers still rely on traditional search engines to find restaurants, 20% now use AI-powered tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Perplexity. In response, 78% of carriers are optimizing their websites to ensure compatibility with both traditional and AI-driven detection platforms.
This shift reflects a broader recognition that digital discoverability now has a direct impact on revenue performance.
Personalization and automation are reshaping guest communication
Restaurants are increasingly leveraging technology to deliver personalized guest experiences at scale. 87% of operators reported using technology that automatically adjusts marketing messages based on guest preferences, order history, and behavioral data.
At the same time, carriers are rapidly expanding their customer databases. On average, restaurants add more than 100 new guest contacts to their email list each month, creating a large dataset that powers automated personalization and targeted promotions.
Consumers seem to welcome these efforts. Almost half (48%) say they want their restaurant to contact them at least once a week, and 53% regularly take advantage of loyalty benefits. These findings support the growing importance of integrated CRM, loyalty, and marketing automation platforms in driving repeat business.
Technology also helps restaurants provide faster and more convenient service. 41% of consumers expect restaurants to use technology to streamline the guest experience, including online ordering, automated communications, and digital payment solutions.
Dynamic pricing, digital menus and flexible pricing strategies gain momentum
Technology also enables more sophisticated pricing strategies. 31% of carriers are considering variable pricing models based on demand, time of day, and seasonality, up from 22% last year. These strategies rely on modern POS systems, real-time analytics, and integrated menu management platforms.
Meanwhile, carriers are using digital menu platforms to introduce limited-time offers, test new products, and quickly respond to changes in demand. 41% are also planning to introduce limited-time menus, while others are expanding their healthy menus, mocktails and comfort foods.
Digital menu platforms and centralized content management systems allow operators to instantly roll out these changes across multiple locations and ordering channels.
Technology will be essential for long-term competitiveness
Popmenu’s research reveals that restaurants are responding to economic pressures by accelerating technology adoption, rather than retreating. Digital marketing automation, AI-powered personalization, and an integrated guest engagement platform enable operators to operate more efficiently while maintaining strong relationships with guests.
As consumers become more selective about where they spend their money, restaurants that invest in technology-driven efficiency, personalization, and discoverability will be better positioned to compete.
Technology is no longer just about improving restaurant operations. This is becoming the foundation for revenue growth, guest retention and long-term resilience in an increasingly challenging operating environment.
Read the full report here: Popmenu Toolkit: Restaurant Trends to Watch in 2026
