The Digital Foodie: Top Trends That Will Drive 2022 Restaurant Marketing

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to throw curve balls, the restaurant business is getting knocked back down just as it was starting to recover. In particular, supply chain disruptions and staffing shortages – whether due to resignations or illness – are forcing quick service and fast casual restaurants to adapt quickly to changing conditions. 

There are several related practices that I think we’re going to see prevail as dining brands look for innovative ways to not just survive but thrive.

Increased Emphasis on Online OrderingThe increased cost of goods due to supply chain issues and economic inflation is causing brands to look for other ways to increase margins. At the same time, the labor shortage means that associates need to be focused on high-value activities. This combination of pressures has brands doubling down on digital ordering – effectively reducing the labor cost of this process. 

In addition to cost savings, there is plentiful evidence that consumers prefer…