External Environment of the U.S. Restaurant Industry

Introduction

The U.S. restaurant industry is one of the most vibrant in the world. New players are drawn to America by factors such as the strength of the U.S. economy, a population with high purchasing power, and a diversity of cultures that has popularized a wide range of profitable cuisines. The country is a global center of trade and has continued to accommodate new ideas and creativity in investment. With the increase in new entrants, more innovative forms of trade have emerged. The political environment is conducive to the development of new business ventures, and demographic trends support the industry's continued expansion. The following sections examine these external factors in light of how the industry has grown to its current robust state.

Demographics

The U.S. population has been growing at an increasing rate in both size and composition. America is perceived as a land of opportunity for people around the world, driving sustained immigration and travel. This growth in numbers and diversity has significantly influenced the development of the restaurant industry. The arrival of large immigrant communities — including Chinese and African populations — has created new demand for foods tied to those cultures. This has given entrepreneurs the opportunity to open restaurants serving diverse cuisines, while also prompting government involvement in establishing best practices for traders. Legislation has been enacted to support an open business platform for all who wish to participate in commerce (Joseph, 2011).

The structure of the U.S. population is predominantly middle-aged. This demographic is particularly inclined toward leisure, and the demand for dining experiences has allowed restaurant businesses to thrive. The need to cater to this middle-aged segment has made hotels and restaurants increasingly important. At the same time, the younger population — though less economically endowed — consumes large quantities of exotic and specialty foods available in restaurants, a trend that has become a key concern for restaurant owners (Janga, Ha, & Par, 2012).

Economic Factors

The economic welfare of the population has a direct impact on the growth of the restaurant industry. Modern business trends show that people in the middle economic bracket can afford the luxury of dining out, and restaurants largely depend on this discretionary spending. The relative prosperity of the American consumer has sustained a large number of restaurants across the country. Rising employment levels have further strengthened the market, as more people earn steady incomes and become reliable customers (Pan, 2012). Economic analysts have recorded a high consumer price index for American households, indicating their capacity to demand substantial amounts of food from restaurants. This favorable indicator has helped secure the restaurant industry's position as a critical channel for meeting food demand.