Chicago, IL – Among 12 different types of restaurants tracked by CHD Expert, full service family-style restaurants, cafes and diners experienced the most net growth with 3 percent more units, followed by delivery and take-away (only) Limited service restaurants (2.5 percent) and fast casual restaurants (2.4 percent). Therefore, if slow economic times tend to put a damper on risk-taking, then new data on restaurant units confirms that consumers and restaurant operators are staying in the 'comfort zone.'
"While we're certainly encouraged to see more restaurant segments growing than declining, it does appear that consumers remain frugal about their spending, looking for safe economical solutions without compromising on quality," said Cathy Kearns, General Manager at CHD Expert.
Based on the type of menu served, 2012 restaurant openings also reflected the appeal of familiar favorites. The best growth from January to June occurred in the American/Traditional category, with 5 percent more units, followed by Mexican restaurants (up 3.1 percent).
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