Readers weigh in on new designs and remodels, industry outlook, growth

: Apr 2, 2026; Newsletters; The Pulse

Reader survey results and more from restaurant development + design.

Ready to read the email newsletter of the year?

Below you’ll find a summary of current survey results, links to related content, and a link to take part in the next survey, of course!

18% of readers surveyed say operators are prioritizing investing in new designs and remodels in 2026.

Looking to create an eye-catching new design? Seek inspiration among the winners of the 10th annual rd+d awards!

67% of readers surveyed are “neutral” (28%) or “somewhat optimistic” (39%) about the industry’s outlook in 2026.

Get a handle on the state of things with Troy Guard, owner and executive chef of TAG Restaurant Group in Denver. He talks about the challenges and rewards of being a multi-concept operator in Talk Shop.

65% of readers surveyed say their companies were holding steady (22%) or steady with selective growth (43%) in the first quarter of 2026. Just 15% report strong growth and active expansion.

Steady is the watchword for 2026. Looking inward instead of out? Tap into your peers’ creativity in Where Does Inspiration Come From?

Don’t miss these trending articles:

Project Profile: Karravaan

A Riviera-Inspired Restaurant Blends Art, Architecture and Hospitality

Top 10 Emerging Restaurant Chains

52% of readers surveyed say their companies’ plans call for measured, strategic growth in 2026. Another 24% will instead focus on remodels and replacements.

Sometimes it’s important to feather your own nest. Check out Legacy Designs Now and Then to see how brand refinement is a continuous process.

42% of readers expect per-project design spend to “increase modestly” in 2026.

Trying to figure out where to allocate tight resources? Let fellow readers tell you What’s Worth the Splurge?

Don’t sleep on our next survey!

Take our survey

The results will appear first in the print magazine and then in the next issue of this very newsletter.

Subscribe to more e-newsletters

You received this email as a subscriber to
restaurant development + design or one of its e-newsletters.

View past editions of The Pulse in our online archive.

Please direct advertising questions to:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., CEO & Publisher.

Please direct editorial questions to:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., Editor in Chief.

Subscription Support:
(800) 630-4168 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

PO Box 156, Elmhurst, IL 60126
(800) 630-4168