Tools commonly used in the Restaurant Information & Referral Service industry for day-to-day tasks and operations.

• Restaurant review websites (e.g. Yelp, TripAdvisor)
• Restaurant reservation platforms (e.g. OpenTable, Resy)
• Restaurant discovery apps (e.g. Zomato, The Infatuation)
• Social media platforms (e.g. Instagram, Facebook) for restaurant recommendations and reviews
• Online food ordering and delivery platforms (e.g. Uber Eats, Grubhub)
• Restaurant loyalty programs and apps (e.g. Starbucks Rewards, MyPanera)
• Restaurant management software (e.g. Toast, Upserve)
• Point of sale systems (e.g. Square, Clover)
• Online menu builders (e.g. MenuDrive, MustHaveMenus)
• Restaurant marketing and advertising tools (e.g. SinglePlatform, Yelp Ads)

Common products and services typical of NAICS Code 812990-26, illustrating the main business activities and contributions to the market.

• Restaurant review websites
• Online restaurant directories
• Restaurant reservation platforms
• Restaurant discovery apps
• Food and restaurant blogs
• Social media platforms for restaurant recommendations and reviews
• Online food ordering and delivery platforms
• Restaurant loyalty programs and apps
• Restaurant management companies
• Restaurant marketing and advertising agencies

The specific certifications, permits, licenses, and regulatory compliance requirements within the United States for this industry.

• Servsafe Food Handler Certification: This certification is required for all employees who handle food in the restaurant industry. It ensures that employees have the knowledge and skills to handle food safely and prevent foodborne illnesses. The certification is provided by the National Restaurant Association and can be obtained through their website.
• Food Allergy Training: This training is required for all employees who handle food in the restaurant industry. It ensures that employees have the knowledge and skills to handle food allergies safely and prevent allergic reactions. The training is provided by the Food Allergy Research & Education organization and can be obtained through their website.
• Alcohol Server Certification: This certification is required for all employees who serve alcohol in the restaurant industry. It ensures that employees have the knowledge and skills to serve alcohol responsibly and prevent over-serving. The certification is provided by the National Restaurant Association and can be obtained through their website.
• Health Department Permits: Health department permits are required for all restaurants to operate legally. They ensure that the restaurant meets health and safety standards and is safe for customers. Permits are obtained through the local health department. No link available.
• Business License: A business license is required for all restaurants to operate legally. It ensures that the restaurant is registered with the local government and is paying taxes. Licenses are obtained through the local government. No link available.

A concise historical narrative of NAICS Code 812990-26 covering global milestones and recent developments within the United States.

• The "Restaurant Information & Referral Service" industry has been around for decades, with the first restaurant guides appearing in the early 20th century. The Michelin Guide, first published in France in 1900, is one of the most famous restaurant guides worldwide. In the United States, the Zagat Survey, first published in 1979, became a popular restaurant guide. In recent years, with the rise of online platforms, such as Yelp and TripAdvisor, restaurant information and referral services have become more accessible to the general public. These platforms allow users to rate and review restaurants, making it easier for people to find the best places to eat. In the United States, the restaurant industry has experienced significant growth in recent years, with the number of restaurants increasing from 647,288 in 2010 to 660,755 in 2018. This growth has led to an increase in demand for restaurant information and referral services. In 2019, Yelp had an average of 178 million unique visitors per month, and TripAdvisor had an average of 490 million unique visitors per month. These platforms have become an essential tool for people looking for information about restaurants, and they have also become an important marketing tool for restaurants themselves.

The anticipated future trajectory of the NAICS 812990-26 industry in the USA, offering insights into potential trends, innovations, and challenges expected to shape its landscape.

• Growth Prediction: Growing

  The restaurant industry is expected to grow in the coming years, and with it, the demand for restaurant information and referral services is also expected to increase. The rise of online food ordering and delivery services has created a need for accurate and up-to-date restaurant information, which can be provided by these services. Additionally, as consumers become more health-conscious, there is a growing demand for information about healthy eating options, which can also be provided by restaurant information and referral services. However, the industry may face challenges from the increasing popularity of online review sites and social media, which can provide similar information for free. Overall, the future outlook for the restaurant information and referral service industry is positive, but companies will need to adapt to changing consumer preferences and technological advancements to remain competitive.

Recent groundbreaking advancements and milestones in the Restaurant Information & Referral Service industry, reflecting notable innovations that have reshaped its landscape.

• Opentable: OpenTable is an online restaurant reservation service that allows users to book tables at restaurants across the country. The service has revolutionized the way people make restaurant reservations, making it easier and more convenient than ever before.
• Yelp: Yelp is a popular online review site that allows users to rate and review restaurants, as well as other businesses. The site has become a go-to resource for people looking for information about restaurants, and has helped to shape the restaurant industry in many ways.
• Grubhub: Grubhub is an online food ordering and delivery service that allows users to order food from their favorite restaurants and have it delivered right to their door. The service has become increasingly popular in recent years, and has helped to drive the growth of the restaurant industry as a whole.
• Zagat: Zagat is a restaurant review and rating service that provides users with detailed information about restaurants across the country. The service has been around for decades, and has become a trusted source of information for many people.
• Michelin Guide: The Michelin Guide is a prestigious restaurant rating system that has been around for over a century. The guide rates restaurants on a scale of one to three stars, with three stars being the highest rating. The guide is considered to be one of the most prestigious in the world, and has helped to shape the restaurant industry in many ways.

This section provides an extensive list of essential materials, equipment and services that are integral to the daily operations and success of the Restaurant Information & Referral Service industry. It highlights the primary inputs that Restaurant Information & Referral Service professionals rely on to perform their core tasks effectively, offering a valuable resource for understanding the critical components that drive industry activities.

Service

Catering Services: External catering options that restaurants can offer for events, expanding their service capabilities and reaching new customer segments.

Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Systems: These systems help manage interactions with customers, enabling personalized service and targeted marketing efforts to enhance customer loyalty.

Event Promotion Services: Services that help restaurants promote special events, such as themed nights or live music, to attract more patrons and enhance the dining experience.

Food Delivery Partnerships: Collaborations with delivery services that enable restaurants to reach a wider audience by offering delivery options to customers.

Food Safety Compliance Consulting: Consultants that assist restaurants in adhering to food safety regulations, ensuring compliance and protecting public health.

Graphic Design Services: Creative services that assist in designing promotional materials, menus, and branding elements that effectively communicate a restaurant's identity.

Influencer Marketing Services: Services that connect restaurants with social media influencers to promote their offerings, leveraging the influencer's audience for increased visibility.

Loyalty Program Management Services: Services that design and manage customer loyalty programs, encouraging repeat business and enhancing customer retention through rewards.

Market Research Services: Research firms that provide insights into dining trends, customer preferences, and competitive analysis, helping restaurants make informed business decisions.

Menu Management Software: Tools that assist restaurants in creating, updating, and managing their menus, ensuring that information is accurate and up-to-date for customers.

Online Reservation Systems: These platforms allow users to book tables at restaurants, streamlining the dining experience and ensuring that customers can secure their desired dining times.

Payment Processing Solutions: Services that facilitate secure and efficient payment transactions, crucial for providing a seamless customer experience.

Photography Services for Menus and Promotions: Professional photography that captures high-quality images of food and restaurant ambiance, essential for marketing materials and online presence.

Public Relations Services: Expert services that help manage a restaurant's public image and handle media relations, crucial for maintaining a positive reputation.

Restaurant Industry Consulting Services: Expert advice on various aspects of restaurant management, including marketing strategies, operational efficiency, and customer service improvements.

Restaurant Review Aggregation Services: Services that compile reviews from various sources, providing a comprehensive overview of customer experiences and helping patrons make informed dining choices.

SEO and Digital Marketing Services: Services that optimize a restaurant's online presence, improving visibility in search engines and attracting more customers through targeted advertising.

Social Media Management Tools: Platforms that assist in managing a restaurant's social media presence, allowing for effective communication with customers and promotion of special events.

Training and Development Programs: Programs that provide staff training on customer service, food safety, and operational best practices, enhancing overall service quality.

Website Development Services: Professional services that create and maintain user-friendly websites for restaurants, ensuring that customers can easily access information and make reservations.

Explore a detailed compilation of the unique products and services offered by the Restaurant Information & Referral Service industry. This section provides precise examples of how each item is utilized, showcasing the diverse capabilities and contributions of the Restaurant Information & Referral Service to its clients and markets. This section provides an extensive list of essential materials, equipment and services that are integral to the daily operations and success of the Restaurant Information & Referral Service industry. It highlights the primary inputs that Restaurant Information & Referral Service professionals rely on to perform their core tasks effectively, offering a valuable resource for understanding the critical components that drive industry activities.

Service

Cuisine Recommendation Services: By analyzing customer preferences and criteria, this service recommends restaurants that specialize in specific cuisines, helping diners discover new culinary experiences tailored to their tastes.

Customer Reviews and Ratings Aggregation: By collecting and displaying customer reviews and ratings, this service helps potential diners gauge the quality and popularity of restaurants, influencing their dining choices based on peer feedback.

Event and Catering Recommendations: By providing information on restaurants that offer catering services or host events, this service assists customers in planning gatherings, ensuring they choose venues that meet their specific needs.

Hours of Operation Information: This service informs customers about the operating hours of various restaurants, ensuring they can plan their visits accordingly and avoid disappointment when seeking to dine out.

Menu Information Services: Offering comprehensive details about restaurant menus, this service allows customers to explore various dining options, including specific dishes, ingredients, and dietary accommodations, enhancing their dining experience.

Online Restaurant Directories: These platforms compile extensive lists of restaurants, offering searchable databases where customers can filter by location, cuisine, and other criteria, streamlining the dining selection process.

Price Range Information: Providing insights into the price ranges of different restaurants, this service assists customers in selecting dining options that fit their budget, making dining out more accessible.

Reservation Services: This service facilitates restaurant reservations for customers, ensuring they secure a table at their desired dining establishment, which is particularly useful during peak hours or for special occasions.

Restaurant Location Services: This service provides customers with detailed information about restaurant locations, helping them find dining options that are convenient and accessible based on their current or desired location.

Special Offers and Promotions Information: This service keeps customers informed about special deals, discounts, and promotions offered by restaurants, allowing them to take advantage of savings while enjoying their meals.

A thorough examination of the Restaurant Information & Referral Service industry’s external dynamics, focusing on the political, economic, social, technological, legal, and environmental factors that shape its operations and strategic direction.

Political Factors

Economic Factors

Social Factors

Technological Factors

Legal Factors

Economical Factors

An in-depth look at the Restaurant Information & Referral Service industry's value chain, highlighting its role, key activities, and efficiency strategies, along with its unique value drivers and competitive strengths.

Value Chain Position

Category: Service Provider
Value Stage: Final
Description: This industry operates as a service provider in the hospitality sector, focusing on delivering information and referral services related to restaurants. It connects consumers with dining options, enhancing their decision-making process regarding where to eat.

Upstream Industries

Downstream Industries

Primary Activities

Operations: Core operations involve gathering and curating information about restaurants, including menus, hours of operation, and customer reviews. This process includes verifying details to ensure accuracy and relevance, which is critical for maintaining consumer trust. Quality management practices involve regular updates and checks to ensure that the information provided is current and reliable, utilizing industry-standard procedures for data collection and verification.

Marketing & Sales: Marketing strategies often include online platforms, social media engagement, and partnerships with food bloggers and influencers to reach a wider audience. Customer relationship practices focus on building trust through transparency and responsiveness to inquiries. Value communication methods emphasize the convenience and reliability of the service, while sales processes typically involve user-friendly interfaces that facilitate easy access to restaurant information.

Support Activities

Infrastructure: Management systems include customer relationship management (CRM) software that tracks user interactions and preferences, allowing for personalized recommendations. Organizational structures often consist of small teams focused on content curation and customer service, ensuring efficient operations and responsiveness to consumer needs. Planning systems are crucial for scheduling regular updates and maintaining the accuracy of restaurant information.

Human Resource Management: Workforce requirements include skilled personnel for data entry, customer service, and content curation. Training programs focus on enhancing staff knowledge about the restaurant industry and customer service skills, ensuring that employees can effectively assist users. Industry-specific skills include familiarity with culinary trends and local dining options, which are essential for providing relevant recommendations.

Technology Development: Key technologies include website and mobile app development tools that facilitate user access to restaurant information. Innovation practices involve adopting new technologies for data collection and user engagement, such as AI-driven recommendation systems. Industry-standard systems often incorporate analytics to track user preferences and improve service offerings based on consumer behavior.

Procurement: Sourcing strategies involve establishing relationships with local restaurants to ensure accurate and timely information. Supplier relationship management is crucial for maintaining quality standards and ensuring that the information provided is reliable. Purchasing practices may include subscriptions to restaurant databases or partnerships with food industry organizations to enhance the breadth of information available.

Value Chain Efficiency

Process Efficiency: Operational effectiveness is measured through user engagement metrics and the accuracy of information provided. Common efficiency measures include tracking the speed of updates and the responsiveness of customer service. Industry benchmarks are established based on user satisfaction ratings and the reliability of information sources.

Integration Efficiency: Coordination methods involve regular communication between content curators, customer service teams, and technology developers to ensure alignment on service quality and user experience. Communication systems often include collaborative tools that facilitate real-time updates and information sharing among team members.

Resource Utilization: Resource management practices focus on optimizing the use of technology and human resources to enhance service delivery. Optimization approaches may involve streamlining data entry processes and utilizing analytics to identify popular dining trends, adhering to industry standards for service efficiency.

Value Chain Summary

Key Value Drivers: Primary sources of value creation include the accuracy and comprehensiveness of restaurant information, effective marketing strategies, and strong relationships with both consumers and restaurant owners. Critical success factors involve maintaining up-to-date information and providing personalized recommendations that meet consumer preferences.

Competitive Position: Sources of competitive advantage include the ability to provide reliable and comprehensive information quickly, as well as strong brand recognition in the market. Industry positioning is influenced by the quality of service provided and the effectiveness of marketing strategies, impacting overall market dynamics.

Challenges & Opportunities: Current industry challenges include competition from other referral services and the need to continuously update information in a fast-paced market. Future trends may involve increased demand for personalized dining experiences and the integration of technology to enhance user engagement, presenting opportunities for growth and innovation.

A focused SWOT analysis that examines the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats facing the Restaurant Information & Referral Service industry within the US market. This section provides insights into current conditions, strategic interactions, and future growth potential.

Strengths

Industry Infrastructure and Resources: The industry benefits from a well-developed network of online platforms and local directories that facilitate easy access to restaurant information. This strong infrastructure allows for efficient communication between consumers and restaurants, enhancing customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.

Technological Capabilities: Advancements in technology, such as mobile applications and AI-driven recommendation systems, provide significant advantages to the industry. These technologies enable personalized user experiences and streamline the process of finding and referring restaurants, ensuring a competitive edge in the market.

Market Position: The industry holds a strong position within the broader hospitality sector, characterized by a growing reliance on digital platforms for restaurant discovery. Brand recognition and user loyalty contribute to its competitive strength, although it faces challenges from emerging competitors in the online space.

Financial Health: Financial performance across the industry is generally strong, with many companies experiencing steady revenue growth driven by increased consumer spending on dining out. The financial health is supported by low operational costs relative to revenue generation, although fluctuations in advertising revenues can impact profitability.

Supply Chain Advantages: The industry enjoys robust relationships with restaurants and food service providers, facilitating timely updates on menus, promotions, and events. These strong connections enhance operational efficiency and allow for quick dissemination of information to consumers.

Workforce Expertise: The labor force in this industry is skilled in customer service and digital marketing, with many employees possessing specialized knowledge in the food and beverage sector. This expertise contributes to high-quality service delivery and effective marketing strategies, although ongoing training is essential to keep pace with technological advancements.

Weaknesses

Structural Inefficiencies: Some companies face structural inefficiencies due to outdated technology or inadequate data management systems, leading to slower response times and reduced customer satisfaction. These inefficiencies can hinder competitiveness, particularly against more agile competitors.

Cost Structures: The industry grapples with rising costs associated with technology maintenance and marketing expenditures. These cost pressures can squeeze profit margins, necessitating careful management of pricing strategies and operational efficiencies to remain profitable.

Technology Gaps: While some companies are technologically advanced, others lag in adopting new digital marketing tools and analytics. This gap can result in lower customer engagement and reduced operational efficiency, impacting overall competitiveness in the market.

Resource Limitations: The industry is vulnerable to fluctuations in advertising budgets and consumer spending, which can disrupt revenue streams. These resource limitations can hinder growth and affect the ability to invest in new technologies or marketing initiatives.

Regulatory Compliance Issues: Navigating the complex landscape of data privacy regulations poses challenges for many companies. Compliance costs can be significant, and failure to meet regulatory standards can lead to penalties and reputational damage.

Market Access Barriers: Entering new markets can be challenging due to established competition and regulatory hurdles. Companies may face difficulties in gaining partnerships with local restaurants or meeting regional regulatory requirements, limiting growth opportunities.

Opportunities

Market Growth Potential: There is significant potential for market growth driven by increasing consumer demand for dining experiences and personalized recommendations. The trend towards online dining platforms presents opportunities for companies to expand their offerings and capture new market segments.

Emerging Technologies: Advancements in mobile technology and artificial intelligence offer opportunities for enhancing user experiences and streamlining restaurant referrals. These technologies can lead to increased efficiency and improved customer satisfaction.

Economic Trends: Favorable economic conditions, including rising disposable incomes and a growing interest in dining out, support growth in the restaurant information sector. As consumers prioritize unique dining experiences, demand for personalized restaurant referrals is expected to rise.

Regulatory Changes: Potential regulatory changes aimed at promoting transparency in restaurant operations could benefit the industry. Companies that adapt to these changes by providing clear and accurate information may gain a competitive edge.

Consumer Behavior Shifts: Shifts in consumer preferences towards local and sustainable dining options create opportunities for growth. Companies that align their referral services with these trends can attract a broader customer base and enhance brand loyalty.

Threats

Competitive Pressures: Intense competition from both traditional directories and emerging digital platforms poses a significant threat to market share. Companies must continuously innovate and differentiate their services to maintain a competitive edge in a crowded marketplace.

Economic Uncertainties: Economic fluctuations, including inflation and changes in consumer spending habits, can impact demand for restaurant referrals. Companies must remain agile to adapt to these uncertainties and mitigate potential impacts on revenue.

Regulatory Challenges: The potential for stricter regulations regarding data privacy and advertising can pose challenges for the industry. Companies must invest in compliance measures to avoid penalties and ensure consumer trust.

Technological Disruption: Emerging technologies in alternative dining platforms and social media could disrupt the market for restaurant referrals. Companies need to monitor these trends closely and innovate to stay relevant.

Environmental Concerns: Increasing scrutiny on sustainability practices poses challenges for the industry. Companies must adopt environmentally friendly practices to meet consumer expectations and regulatory requirements.

SWOT Summary

Strategic Position: The industry currently enjoys a strong market position, bolstered by robust consumer demand for restaurant information and referrals. However, challenges such as rising competition and regulatory pressures necessitate strategic innovation and adaptation to maintain growth. The future trajectory appears promising, with opportunities for expansion into new markets and service offerings, provided that companies can navigate the complexities of technology and consumer preferences.

Key Interactions

Growth Potential: The growth prospects for the industry are robust, driven by increasing consumer demand for personalized dining experiences and technological advancements. Key growth drivers include the rising popularity of mobile applications and AI-driven recommendations, as well as favorable economic conditions. Market expansion opportunities exist in both domestic and international markets, particularly as consumers seek out unique dining experiences. However, challenges such as regulatory compliance and competition must be addressed to fully realize this potential. The timeline for growth realization is projected over the next five to ten years, contingent on successful adaptation to market trends and consumer preferences.

Risk Assessment: The overall risk level for the industry is moderate, with key risk factors including economic uncertainties, competitive pressures, and regulatory challenges. Industry players must be vigilant in monitoring external threats, such as changes in consumer behavior and technological advancements. Effective risk management strategies, including diversification of services and investment in technology, can mitigate potential impacts. Long-term risk management approaches should focus on sustainability and adaptability to changing market conditions. The timeline for risk evolution is ongoing, necessitating proactive measures to safeguard against emerging threats.

Strategic Recommendations

An exploration of how geographic and site-specific factors impact the operations of the Restaurant Information & Referral Service industry in the US, focusing on location, topography, climate, vegetation, zoning, infrastructure, and cultural context.

Location: Operations thrive in urban areas with high population density, where demand for dining options is substantial. Regions with vibrant culinary scenes, such as New York City and San Francisco, benefit from a diverse array of restaurants, making them ideal for referral services. Proximity to major transportation hubs enhances accessibility for both customers seeking dining options and restaurants looking for visibility. Areas with a strong tourism presence also provide a steady stream of potential clients seeking dining recommendations.

Topography: The industry operates effectively in flat urban environments that facilitate easy access to various restaurants. Urban landscapes with mixed-use developments allow for efficient service delivery, as referral services can quickly connect clients to nearby dining options. In hilly or mountainous regions, accessibility may be limited, affecting the ability to provide timely referrals. However, cities with well-planned infrastructure can mitigate these challenges, ensuring that services remain efficient regardless of terrain.

Climate: Climate impacts the dining culture and, consequently, the operations of referral services. Warmer climates often see a higher demand for outdoor dining options, influencing the types of restaurants that thrive and the information services provided. Seasonal variations, such as harsh winters, can reduce restaurant patronage, affecting referral service operations during those months. Adaptation to local climate conditions is essential, as services may need to highlight seasonal menus or outdoor dining options based on weather patterns.

Vegetation: Vegetation can influence the ambiance and dining experiences offered by restaurants, which in turn affects referral services. Areas with lush greenery may promote outdoor dining experiences, while urban settings with limited vegetation might focus on indoor dining options. Compliance with local environmental regulations regarding landscaping can also impact restaurant operations, as referral services must stay informed about these factors to provide accurate recommendations. Additionally, maintaining a balance between urban development and green spaces can enhance the dining experience.

Zoning and Land Use: Zoning regulations significantly affect where restaurants can operate, which in turn impacts referral services. Areas designated for commercial use are ideal for restaurant operations, while residential zones may have restrictions that limit dining establishments. Referral services must navigate these regulations to provide accurate information about available dining options. Specific permits may be required for outdoor seating or alcohol service, and understanding these requirements is crucial for effective referrals in different regions.

Infrastructure: Robust infrastructure is vital for the efficient operation of referral services. High-speed internet and mobile connectivity are essential for online platforms that provide restaurant information. Transportation infrastructure, such as public transit and parking facilities, influences how easily customers can access recommended dining options. Additionally, utilities such as electricity and water are critical for restaurants, and referral services must consider these factors when providing recommendations to ensure a seamless dining experience.

Cultural and Historical: Cultural factors play a significant role in shaping dining preferences and the types of restaurants that thrive in various regions. Communities with a rich culinary heritage may have a diverse range of dining options, which referral services can leverage to provide tailored recommendations. Historical trends in dining can also influence current operations, as certain cuisines or dining styles may see a resurgence in popularity. Understanding local cultural dynamics is essential for referral services to effectively connect clients with suitable dining experiences.

A detailed overview of the Restaurant Information & Referral Service industry’s market dynamics, competitive landscape, and operational conditions, highlighting the unique factors influencing its day-to-day activities.

Market Overview

Market Size: Medium

Description: This industry focuses on providing comprehensive information and referral services related to restaurants, including details on locations, menus, hours of operation, and recommendations based on various criteria. It encompasses both traditional and online platforms that facilitate restaurant discovery and customer engagement.

Market Stage: Growth. The industry is experiencing growth as more consumers turn to digital platforms for restaurant information and recommendations, driven by the increasing reliance on technology for dining decisions and the expansion of food delivery services.

Geographic Distribution: National. Operations are distributed across urban and suburban areas where dining options are abundant, with a concentration in metropolitan regions that have a diverse culinary scene.

Characteristics

Market Structure

Market Concentration: Fragmented. The industry consists of numerous small to medium-sized companies, including independent referral services and larger platforms, leading to a competitive environment with varied service offerings.

Segments

Distribution Channels

Success Factors

Demand Analysis

Demand Drivers

Competitive Landscape

Entry Barriers

Business Models

Operating Environment