The overwhelming majority of rd+d readers surveyed in April — 69% — said that supply chain issues had forced them to change construction plans on their current projects. Just 24% said they supply chain issues hadn’t affected their current construction projects.
The remaining 7% said that the situation was complicated, and they wished to elaborate. To avoid supply chain concerns, many chose to rework their projects and plans to meet current timeframes. “Walk in coolers have extremely long lead times of 5 to 6 months,” said one reader. To solve the problem they were “going to use used panels for new builds” for now. Others are “planning and purchasing further in advance” than usual. Another suggested they are getting around the crunch via “early contractor engagement, early ordering” to get “an earlier start on sourcing and procurement.”
rd+d’s ongoing research project periodically surveys qualified subscribers on the state of restaurant development and design. This survey was fielded in April 2022.