Hudson Riehle Quotations

But by and large, this certainly isn't a national movement in the restaurant industry.

Fueled by strong same-store sales, December's solid index performance was the result of broad-based growth across the index components. Three out of five restaurant operators reported a same-store sales gain in December -- the strongest level in 12 months. In addition, the Expectations Index posted its fourth consecutive monthly increase, which points toward growth in sales, staffing levels and capital expenditures during the next several months.

The active recruitment of older individuals with a higher skill level and knowledge base is stepping up.

Bolstered by record warm temperatures in many parts of the country, a majority of restaurant operators reported January gains in same-store sales and customer traffic. In addition, operators reported a boost in plans for hiring and capital expenditures -- positive developments for both the restaurant industry and the overall economy.

Another feature typical of fast-casual outlets is entertainment value, as many have employees prepare meals in a display kitchen while the customer is watching, and the decor and atmosphere are often trendy and incorporate original art and the restaurant's mission and philosophy.

It's a win-win situation for both the restaurant operator, who now has another viable option for the disposal of old oil, as well as the general public, who benefit from energy conservation and energy source options.

It really does hold long-term benefits, not only for the restaurant industry, but for the environment on a national basis.

It makes sense - particularly at larger companies that have human resource functions that are planning out long term - that when they look ahead, they obviously are going to work harder at retaining those individuals. Unless you have the skill set, customer counts can suffer.

The November performance of the Restaurant Performance Index is a positive sign for the restaurant industry heading into the new year. Of particular note is restaurant operators' optimistic outlook for the overall economy, which rose to its strongest level in nine months.

The restaurant industry is the most labor-intensive industry in the country.

The nation's 925,000 restaurants -- even through the challenges of rising energy costs and major hurricanes in 2005 -- are entering 2006 with solid performances and optimism on both the national and state levels.

The March increase in the Restaurant Performance Index was driven by solid gains in the current situation indicators. Nearly two-thirds of restaurant operators reported a same-store sales gain in March -- the strongest performance in 15 months. Restaurant operators also reported increased capital expenditure activity, which bodes well for both the restaurant industry and the overall economy.

The challenge is to maintain high-touch in a high-tech environment.

Among all 50 states, Texas is obviously a bright star in terms of growth in the restaurant industry. When you consider the disposal of personal income and combine this with population growth, it adds up to a recipe for success for Texas.