If you walked the floor of the 2025 National Restaurant Association Show, you likely heard a lot of buzz about innovation, flavor trends, and new tech. But behind the booths and brand activations, the real story came straight from operators—sharing the hard truths of what’s weighing them down in today’s foodservice industry.
At Buyers Edge Platform, we had honest conversations with restaurant leaders and operators from every segment—and they weren’t shy about what’s keeping them up at night. These candid discussions gave us a direct line to the everyday obstacles operators are up against. It wasn’t about theory or speculation; it was about the operational stressors they face right now, and the real consequences of not having the right support in place.
Here’s what we heard:
- Difficulty attracting and retaining staff: The labor crisis isn’t over. Operators continue to struggle to hire and keep reliable workers, which puts pressure on remaining staff and often impacts service quality.
- Soaring food and labor costs: Margins are razor thin, and inflation is making it worse. Many operators said food prices have jumped significantly while labor demands more pay and benefits.
- Complicated software systems and rising tech expenses: While operators want technology, many said the current tools they use are disjointed, expensive, and hard to integrate into their workflow.
- Lack of tools to manage day-to-day costs effectively: Without visibility into purchasing or inventory, many operators are flying blind when it comes to managing expenses.
- Reduced volume and lower guest traffic: Traffic hasn’t returned to pre-pandemic levels for many, especially in urban areas or for dine-in-focused concepts.
- Manufacturers needing help breaking into distribution: Some restaurant groups are innovating with new products, but manufacturers still face uphill battles getting those products into mainstream distribution channels.
- Supply chain obstacles, especially with imported goods: Long lead times, inconsistent deliveries, and import limitations are creating menu instability and planning headaches.
- Challenges with distributors and tech platforms that don’t talk to each other: Operators voiced frustration over lack of connectivity between systems. Fragmented data means extra work and more opportunities for error.
- Limited staff bandwidth to manage operations efficiently: Many operators said they simply don’t have time to focus on cost optimization or long-term strategy because the day-to-day is so demanding.
- Desire to be first-to-market with innovative products and solutions: There’s a strong appetite for trendsetting and competitive advantage, but accessing the newest products and vetting vendors quickly is a major roadblock.
- Working with importers and securing access to international goods: For concepts dependent on unique or globally sourced ingredients, maintaining consistent inventory is a constant struggle.
These aren’t minor frustrations—they’re systemic hurdles. And each one creates ripple effects across operations, profits, and guest satisfaction. Operators need more than point solutions; they need connected, proactive support that understands the complexity of their businesses.
How Buyers Edge Platform Can Help:
We’re not just listening—we’re building solutions. Buyers Edge Platform offers a connected procurement network that addresses the exact challenges operators face. Here’s how we’re stepping in to help:
- Staffing and Labor Shortages: Our back-office technology reduces manual work and provides visibility into labor and operational trends, giving operators tools to run leaner, smarter teams.
- Food and Labor Costs: We help reduce expenses through strategic sourcing, contract optimization, and access to over 175,000 rebated line items across categories.
- Tech and Software: With scalable and easy-to-integrate platforms, we simplify workflows, improve reporting accuracy, and help operators make data-informed decisions without system overload.
- Distribution and Innovation: We support manufacturers in expanding distribution access and help operators get connected to innovative new products faster than ever.
- Import Support and Supply Chain: Through our broad network of suppliers, we help operators find alternate sources, secure critical ingredients, and reduce disruption risk.
With the right partner, operators can gain the clarity and confidence they need to grow—even in uncertain times.
Foodservice isn’t getting easier. But it can get smarter.
At Buyers Edge Platform, we’re committed to helping operators streamline operations, uncover savings, and unlock the tools they need to succeed. If these challenges sound familiar, know that you’re not alone—and we’re ready to help.
Ready to simplify operations and strengthen your bottom line? Click here to explore how Buyers Edge Platform can help solve your biggest challenges.
