As someone who talks to restaurant owners every single day, I know firsthand how challenging the past few years have been for the restaurant industry. But as we settle into 2025, I’m excited to share some promising trends (source) that indicate this year is shaping up to be a strong one for growth and opportunity.

One of the biggest areas of expansion is to-go ordering (source). The demand for takeout and delivery continues to surge, with a projected 7.88% compound annual growth rate by 2029. That means restaurants that optimize their packaging and to-go operations will be well-positioned to thrive. At APS, we’re always working to provide high-quality, cost-effective solutions to help you meet this growing demand.

We’re also seeing positive economic shifts that bode well for the industry. Inflation is stabilizing, and interest rates are coming down (source)—both signs that consumer spending should see a boost. In fact, up to 97% of restaurants are planning to expand in 2025 (source). That tells me restaurant owners are optimistic about what’s ahead, and I couldn’t agree more.

At APS, our goal is to help you stay ahead by providing the best paper products, to-go containers, and restaurant essentials to keep your business running smoothly. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your packaging, streamline costs, or prepare for growth, we’re here to support you.

Let’s make 2025 a year of success! If there’s anything we can do to help, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Nick

Charlotte is getting recognition on the national restaurant scene with three nominees of the prestigious James Beard Award. And APS has been along for the ride as these talented individuals and their respective restaurants have won over Charlotteans.

You can learn more about these James Beard Nominees and the restaurants where they work from past episodes of the Paper Trails Podcast. Check them out!

– Chayil Johnson, Executive Chef at Community Matters Café, nominated for Best Chef: Southeast. In the sixth episode of Season 3 of the Paper Trails podcast, Nick sat down with Chaylil. They discussed his culinary influence from growing up in New Orleans and how Community Matters Cafe is impacting Charlotte. Watch/listen here.

– Sam Diminich, Executive Chef at Restaurant Constance, nominated for Best Chef: Southeast. Nick interviewed Sam about his gourmet meal delivery service, Your Farms Your Table, before he started Restaurant Constance. They discussed his victory over Bobby Flay, and how he found a way to thrive and help others during Covid’s impact on the restaurant industry. Watch/listen here.

– Colleen Hughs, Mixologist at Supperland, nominated for Outstanding Professional in Cocktail ServiceWhile we haven’t interviewed Colleen, Nick interviewed owners Jamie Brown and Jeff Tonidandel when they first opened Supperland over three years ago. Watch/listen here.

The James Beard Awards are prestigious honors recognizing excellence in the culinary and hospitality industry across the United States. Presented annually by the James Beard Foundation, they celebrate chefs, restaurants, restaurateurs, writers, and media professionals who make significant contributions to the food world. Often referred to as the “Oscars of the food industry,” these awards highlight innovation, leadership, and dedication to culinary excellence.

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