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As we move toward 2025, NEW OPEN guides you through the most promising concepts in the restaurant industry over the next five years. Key areas include digital transformation, unmanned technology, diversified business models, the growth of eco-friendly restaurants, and how the Asian food wave is becoming a new opportunity for globalization.
1. Digital Transformation in Restaurants: 2025’s New Trend
Digital transformation has become essential in the restaurant industry, especially post-pandemic, as businesses strive to adapt to changing consumer needs. In 2020, Taiwan's restaurant industry saw a 75.6% adoption rate for POS systems, highlighting the urgent need for digital solutions. With advancing digital technology, many restaurants are now utilizing cloud-based POS systems, online ordering platforms, and various digital marketing tools to enhance operational efficiency. Increasingly health-conscious consumers are driving more restaurants to provide detailed ingredient information and promote wellness. Through digital consumer behavior analysis, restaurants can more precisely adjust menus and launch health-aligned products, attracting more customers and fostering loyalty.
2. Applications of Unmanned Technology
The rise of unmanned technology is transforming the restaurant industry. From unmanned restaurants to automated delivery, this technology is reshaping traditional restaurant services. Surveys show that many restaurants have already implemented automation to reduce labor costs. For example, BenQ Qisda Group’s Yushin Information launched a cloud POS and automated restaurant solutions, improving operational efficiency and addressing post-pandemic staffing shortages. In 2023, the Industrial Technology Research Institute introduced the "Cubot ONE" delivery robot, offering flexible service options and reducing labor costs, providing restaurant operators with a competitive edge.
3. Diversified Business Models: Expanding Across Industries
As market demands evolve, diversified business models have become a new trend in the restaurant industry. Post-pandemic, many restaurants are exploring new business models to navigate market uncertainty. Some restaurants have launched lunchboxes, frozen meals, and shelf-stable products, leveraging online platforms to expand market reach.
Collaborations across industries have also become popular, with many brands co-launching products or services to attract new customer bases. For example, McDonald’s partnerships with convenience stores, providing consumers with more convenient food pickup options through digital platforms, not only boosts brand visibility but also enhances its buzz.
4. Growth of Eco-Friendly Restaurants
Amid growing global environmental awareness, eco-friendly restaurant concepts are gaining popularity with consumers. More restaurants are focusing on sustainability, opting for organic ingredients and renewable materials to minimize environmental impact. Some are implementing zero-waste policies, repurposing leftover ingredients, and collaborating with local farmers to promote locally sourced ingredients. These initiatives not only reduce carbon footprints but also improve brand perception in terms of corporate social responsibility. This increased focus on environmental responsibility encourages consumers to pay a premium for eco-friendly dining options, supporting a sustainable market.
5. The Asian Food Wave: A New Opportunity for Globalization
With the rise of Asian cuisine, many international brands are entering Asian markets, creating new opportunities for local restaurant industries. The diversity and innovation of Asian cuisine have attracted global attention, allowing local brands to gain international exposure. For instance, Taiwan’s night market culture and street food are gaining popularity among international food lovers, with many Taiwanese brands beginning to expand overseas.
Cross-cultural collaboration has also become a key feature of the Asian restaurant industry. Many restaurants are now blending culinary elements from different cultures to create innovative dishes that attract customers and enhance market competitiveness. For example, some restaurants have combined traditional Taiwanese cuisine with Japanese and Korean flavors, creating unique new dishes. This cross-cultural fusion is set to be an important development trend in the restaurant industry.
Facing these new trends, restaurant operators need to enhance their technical skills and sharpen their insights to find the best paths to thrive in this evolving environment. This will be the common challenge over the coming years.
NEW OPEN Consulting Group comprises senior professionals with over 30 years of restaurant industry experience, dedicated to crafting a tailored plan for your brand. Complete our Brand Health Check Form to connect with us. NEW OPEN will help you identify the most suitable entrepreneurial approach or brand refinement, creating a customized brand optimization project.