NRA Forecasts “Greener” Restaurants In 2012

A majority of restaurateurs across all industry segments plan to invest in “green” technology this year, according to the National Restaurant Association.

The association’s 2012 Restaurant Industry Forecast reports that more operators will invest in “eco-friendly” equipment and fixtures to help attract the 41% of consumers who say they’re likely to make their restaurant choices based on whether the establishments they frequent practice environmental conservation.

"Today’s consumers are educated about what businesses are doing to become more eco-friendly," said Chris Moyer, project manager for the NRA’s Conserve Sustainability Education Program.

Among restaurateurs questioned, 72% of casual-dining operators said they would invest in energy-saving equipment, while 65% of quick-service and fast-casual operators said they planned to purchase energy-efficient refrigeration, air conditioning or heating systems in 2012. Nearly two-thirds of family-dining restaurants plan to replace their current lighting with energy-saving light fixtures, while 52% of fine-dining operators said they would install water-saving equipment or fixtures.

"More information on ‘green’ equipment, return on investment and various incentives is available to restaurateurs all of the time," Moyer said. "Operators are smart to take advantage of and capitalize on opportunities such as grants and rebates that could reduce the cost of their ‘green’ investments."