Independent Restaurant Traffic Declines In 2nd Quarter

NPD Group reports that visits to independent restaurants dropped two percent in the second calendar quarter of this year, while visits to big chains remained flat and visits to small chains rose two percent. Chains have outperformed independents over the short- and long-term for the past five years, probably because independents lack the resources, marketing power, and business acumen of the big companies. When independents do succeed it’s usually because of loyal customers who appreciate quality food and a pleasurable dining experience.