The cost of construction and materials will be the most important factor in how operators allocate their budgets in 2026, according to 51% of restaurant development + design readers.
Labor concerns were a distant second with 19% of the readers surveyed.
Other key concerns for budget allocation in 2026 were as follows: Customer expectations (14%), sustainability requirements (6%), and technology investments (7%).
Other concerns for 2026 included overall cost of ownership and operational costs and concerns over landlord improvements.
rd+d regularly surveys subscribers on the state of restaurant development and design. This survey was fielded in October 2025. Subscribe to The Pulse to get rd+d’s surveys and results delivered to your inbox six times a year.
