The National Restaurant Association’s Restaurant Performance Index rose 0.9% MoM to 99.7 in April, but remained below the neutral level of 100, signaling continued contraction in overall industry conditions.

• The Current Situation Index increased 0.5% MoM to 99.4, its second straight monthly rise, supported by modest gains in same-store sales and labor indicators.
• The Expectations Index rose 1.2% MoM to 100.0, reaching the neutral expansion threshold, with slight improvement in sales and staffing outlooks.
• 45% of operators reported YoY same-store sales increases, while 48% continued to see lower customer traffic.

• Only 23% of operators expect higher sales in six months, and just 24% anticipate economic improvement, both notably weaker than late 2024 sentiment.
• Capital spending plans remained firm, with 52% of operators expecting to invest in equipment or remodeling in the next six months.