National Restaurant Association releases 2009 trends forecast

Research released today by the National Restaurant Association shows that Americans are looking for healthier options and "greener"restaurants when they dine out, in addition to an increased interest in value and convenience. Surveys of restaurant operators, customers and chefs indicate that restaurateurs will sharpen their appeal in 2009 in these areas and that restaurants' responsiveness to customers' preferences will drive these industry trends, according to the association's 2009 Restaurant Industry Forecast.

Restaurant industry sales are expected to reach a record $566 billion in 2009. The nation's 945,000 restaurant-and-foodservice outlets are expected to employ 13 million individuals, and add 1.8 million new career and employment opportunities in the next decade. The industry is heading into 2009 as a continuing economic powerhouse and an essential part of Americans' lifestyle.

"The restaurant industry is both innovative and resilient, and will remain the cornerstone of the nation's economy and communities, employing and serving millions of Americans in 2009,"said Dawn Sweeney, president and CEO of the association. "Consumers are looking for value, variety, healthier options and convenience, and they know that restaurants will provide them the experiences and choices they are seeking. Americans continue to rely on restaurants as a key part of their lifestyle as the industry provides the food, value and service customers seek, which drives both the trends and success of our industry. In 2009, it is predicted that nearly half of consumers' food budget will be spent in restaurants, rewarding the continued responsiveness and innovation that our industry provides to budget-conscious Americans."

According to new association research, healthy kids' meals will be among the hottest trends. Out of nearly 210 culinary items listed on the association's "What's Hot"survey of more than 1,600 American Culinary Federation member chefs, nutritionally balanced children's dishes came in as the No. 4 trend, and fruit/vegetable side items for kids ranked sixth. In a separate survey, quick-service operators named healthy options in kids' meals as the No. 1 food trend in the quick-service segment in 2009.