Michigan restaurant operators are being hit harder across the economic landscape than those in other states, according to a new survey.
Michigan Restaurant & Lodging Association on Tuesday, May 19, released details from its April 2026 Restaurant Operators Survey conducted in partnership with the National Restaurant Association on March business conditions.
The Michigan survey revealed a consumer pull-back on dining and travel spending that is hitting Michigan operators harder than national averages. Another key finding cited in the survey is that two-thirds of Michigan operators raised menu prices over the last year because of high food costs.
More than half of the restaurant operators surveyed in late April on March sales reported a decline in sales compared to 39% nationwide. Consumer traffic in March also declined for Michigan operators. More than half (55%) of operators reported traffic declines compared to 46% of operators nationally.
While sales declines are outpacing the nation, the survey found Michigan restaurant operators are optimistic about the state’s hospitality industry. Operators in Michigan are outpacing national trends, survey data revealed, by continuing to invest in hiring, along with making capital expenditures. More than half of operators surveyed made investments in equipment and more than a third invested in expansions or remodeling, the survey said.
“What we’re seeing is an industry that remains committed to Michigan’s economy and communities, but one that’s absorbing significant pressure from multiple directions,” said Justin Winslow, president and CEO of the restaurant association. “Operators are still investing, still creating jobs, still opening new locations, but the economic fundamentals are getting tougher.”
Michigan operators are also outpacing national averages at five times the rate when it comes to opening new places. Sixteen percent plan to open new places compared to 3% nationally.
5 key findings of Michigan operators surveyed:
“Michigan’s restaurant and lodging operators have shown remarkable adaptability, but the current environment requires them to manage more challenges simultaneously,” Winslow said. “As we head into the summer season, this industry remains a vital economic engine for the state.”Contact Detroit Free Press food and restaurant writer Susan Selasky and send food and restaurant news and tips to: sselasky@freepress.com. Follow her on X, formerly Twitter: @SusanMariecooks. Subscribe to the Eat Drink Freep newsletter for insider scoops on food and dining in metro Detroit.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Michigan restaurants economic struggles more than others, survey finds
Reporting by Susan Selasky, Detroit Free Press / Detroit Free Press
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