The restaurant industry is grappling with big questions this year. Diners these days are more value-conscious, more selective, and more willing to stay home; and costs, along with competition, continue to rise for operators. As big chains and local independents try to protect sales or regain their footing, analysts who spoke to Business Insider said the year ahead will come down to whether restaurants can do more with less, without losing what made people want to dine out in the first place.
Chief executive Phil Urban stated, "It's been the case for the last two or three years that Nicholson's has led the way, closely followed by Sizzling Pubs, Vintage Inns, and Castle Pubs."