Mar 7, 2025

businesses, today unveiled its 2025 Restaurant Business Report , revealing the financial challenges restaurant operators face and the opportunities to strengthen their businesses. While economic pressures persist, the report highlights that with the right tools and insights, operators can take control of their financial future in 2025 to strengthen profitability and position their businesses for long-term success. SpotOn worked with Penta to conduct a nationwide survey of 200 independent and chain restaurant operators to better understand the state of financial literacy among US operators in major markets including including Seattle San Francisco Los Angeles Dallas St. Louis Chicago New York Pittsburgh Washington DC Miami Denver , and Detroit Key Findings from the 2025 SpotOn Financial Literacy Report Economic Pressures Are Rising : 93% of operators are concerned about the impact of rising interest rates on their business, while nearly 1 in 3 worry about financial stability in 2025. Independent operators feel the squeeze the most. Financial Systems Need an Overhaul : While 99% of operators agree that strong financial management is critical, 84% say their current systems need improvement, and nearly half admit they should spend more time on financial tracking but struggle to do so. Data Gaps Hinder Pricing Strategies : 73% of operators lack full confidence in their pricing strategy, with most relying on gut instinct or competitor pricing instead of real-time cost analysis. Access to Capital Remains a Challenge : 66% of operators anticipate needing additional funding in 2025, yet fewer than 12% have explored POS-based lending, despite its potential to provide faster, more flexible capital. "Restaurant operators are some of the most resilient and resourceful business owners out there," said Kevin Bryla , Chief Marketing Officer of SpotOn. "This report isn't just about identifying challenges—it's about uncovering opportunities and leveling the playing field for independent restaurants. We as industry partners must provide better financial reporting and easier access to financial insights, enabling operators to navigate uncertainty with confidence while delivering incredible guest experiences." A Path Forward for Restaurants The report highlights key opportunities for restaurants to strengthen their financial future through better data access, automation, and smarter financial tools: Bridge the Data Gap : With real-time financial reporting and automation, restaurants can spend less time tracking numbers and more time running their business. SpotOn's Restaurant POS system integrates seamlessly to provide operators with the insights they need—when they need them. Streamline Financial Management : Integrating financial systems with payroll and accounting software reduces administrative burdens, freeing operators to focus on profitability. SpotOn's top-tier integrations streamline processes like payroll preparation, reduce manual tasks, and allow operators to focus more on strategic management and planning. Turn Pricing into a Growth Strategy : A smarter approach to menu pricing can boost revenue and profitability without compromising guest experience. SpotOn integrations with inventory partners like MarginEdge and Craftable can help operators fine-tune their pricing strategy in a way that accounts for costs while still appealing to consumers. Explore Easier Access to Capital : Traditional loans aren't the only option. POS-based lending solutions like SpotOn Capital give operators quick access to working capital, helping them invest in their business without the lengthy approval process. SpotOn's Report makes one thing clear: operators are ready to take control of their financial future, and the right technology partner can help. Whether it's improving financial visibility, making smarter pricing decisions, or unlocking new funding opportunities, restaurant owners have the power to turn today's challenges into tomorrow's success for a brighter financial future for all restaurants. The full report is available for download at www.spoton.com/report