Experts Make Predictions for Restaurant Operations in 2024

Full article available at QSRweb.

Restaurant operations are shifting fast, and 2024 is set to bring even more change. In this roundup from QSRweb, industry experts share what they see coming next. It's a mix of tech, labor strategy, and practical moves aimed at staying lean and responsive.

Automation is at the top of the list. Not just robots, but systems that make life easier for teams. Think smarter inventory tools, better scheduling software, and tighter kitchen workflows. At The Culinary Edge, we’re seeing more clients lean into this kind of tech. The goal isn't to replace people. It's to give them the tools to move faster and focus on the guest.

Menu simplification is another big theme. Operators are trimming the fat. That means fewer SKUs, clearer builds, and faster training. Done right, it makes the food better and the operation smoother. We've helped clients rethink their core menu this way—less clutter, more impact.

Experts also point to off-premise as a long-term play. Not just delivery, but smart packaging, menu design for travel, and store formats built for grab-and-go. This isn’t a pandemic pivot anymore. It’s part of the model.

The big thread here is clarity. Tighter teams. Sharper menus. Smarter tools. In a noisy market, brands that simplify and focus are the ones that will move forward.