In today’s unpredictable economic and political environment, staying agile and profitable requires more than great food and service. As costs rise and consumer habits shift, savvy operators are adapting with smart, diversified approaches. Drawing on 2025 trend predictions from Diageo Bar Academy, Bar & Restaurant Magazine, and TouchBistro, we’ve outlined practical strategies to help bars and restaurants remain resilient—and where it makes sense, introduce new revenue drivers.
1. Cater to Low- and No-Alcohol Trends
With Gen Z increasingly moderating alcohol consumption, demand for mocktails and low-ABV options continues to rise. According to TouchBistro, 40% of Gen Z have never had alcohol, reshaping how bars cater to younger audiences.
Tip: Create dedicated non-alcoholic menus that feel just as celebratory. Pair these with themed nights or interactive mocktail events to create a fun, inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome—regardless of what they’re drinking.
2. Combat Rising Costs with Smart Technology
Labor and food costs continue to rise—and they’re not slowing down. According to the TouchBistro 2025 State of Restaurants Report, 99% of operators have experienced increased labor costs, and 26% cite food costs as their top financial challenge. In response, many bars and restaurants are turning to technology to increase efficiency and protect margins.
42% of operators report that tech adoption has made their staff more productive, and 41% say it has helped increase sales, proving that the right tools can do more than just streamline—they can drive growth.
Popular tech solutions include:
- Integrated POS systems that combine ordering, payment, inventory, and reporting
- Staff scheduling software that reduces labor waste and improves shift coverage
- Inventory and recipe management tools that help control food costs and reduce waste
- Self-service kiosks or table-side tablets to speed up ordering and reduce front-of-house strain
Tip: Evaluate which parts of your operation feel clunky, slow, or error-prone—and research tech solutions that solve those exact problems. Even small changes, like switching to a smart POS system can quickly pay off by saving time, reducing errors, and improving the guest experience.
3. Diversify Revenue Streams
Bar & Restaurant Magazine emphasizes that successful venues are expanding beyond traditional offerings. They’re hosting events, pop-ups, themed nights, and merchandise collaborations as foundational revenue sources—not just add-ons. These supplemental streams aren’t just trendy—they’re essential in offsetting rising costs.
Tip: Introduce entertainment options:
Themed gaming nights: Host weekly trivia or tournament events tied to specials (e.g., “Retro Game Night”).
Private group packages: Offer rentals for birthdays or corporate events, complete with food/drink bundles.
Generate revenue without requiring additional staff. COAM games (also known as skill games) are regulated gaming machines that offer players a chance to win based on skill, rather than luck. They generate passive income for your business while keeping guests engaged longer. Hosting game or Bring a Buddy nights can also drive repeat business.
4. Embrace Hyper-Localization & Sustainability
Diageo predicts a continued shift toward hyper-local ingredients and sustainable practices, with guests favoring businesses that support their communities and operate ethically.
Tip: Highlight regional sourcing on your menu and create seasonal specials. It doesn’t have to just be about food. Highlight any local vendors or partnerships. Sustainable operations don’t just attract guests—they reduce waste and often improve margins.
Tip: Collaborate with local artists, food producers, or musicians to create unique experiences. If you host game nights, use them as themed events that feature local brews or snacks—creating a multi-sensory, community-driven event.
5. Leverage Social Media to Drive Traffic
Social media is no longer optional for bars and restaurants—it’s a primary discovery channel. According to the TouchBistro 2025 State of Restaurants Report, 48% of full-service restaurants now actively use TikTok, up from just 26% the year before. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok are helping venues reach Gen Z and younger Millennials who increasingly rely on social media to decide where to eat, drink, and hang out.
Bar & Restaurants that are leading the way in customer engagement are those leveraging digital storytelling, behind-the-scenes content, and influencer partnerships to build trust and excitement online.
Tip: Use social media to promote your most shareable experiences. If you host trivia nights, feature signature cocktails, or offer COAM skill games, spotlight these in short-form video content that highlights the energy and uniqueness of your venue. Encourage guests to tag your location and share their wins—especially during high-energy moments at the game machines. Organic social buzz can significantly boost foot traffic and brand loyalty.
6. Build Loyalty Through Experiences & Social Engagement
Loyalty isn’t just about points anymore—it’s about creating moments your guests want to return to and share. According to the TouchBistro State of Restaurants Report, more than half of restaurants now run loyalty programs, and platforms like TikTok are becoming vital for staying visible and relevant—especially to Gen Z and Millennial audiences.
Tip: Pair your loyalty programs with social engagement to maximize their impact. Offer rewards for check-ins, shares, and reviews, or unlock exclusive perks for guests who attend themed nights or participate in social campaigns. Themed trivia nights, throwback events, and interactive games create “Instagrammable” moments that drive both foot traffic and digital buzz.
Why It Works: Layering Loyalty & Experience to Drive Profit
| Challenge | Smart Solution |
| Unpredictable guest behavior | Loyalty programs and social content longer visits and deeper engagement |
| Rising costs | Tech like COAM games offsets labor and increases revenue per guest |
| Market saturation | Shareable, local events create nostalgic offerings that differentiate your brand |
By combining loyalty programs, strategic social media content, and memorable experiences, bars and restaurants can deepen guest relationships, drive repeat visits, and stay competitive—even in unpredictable times.
Final Takeaways
While inflation and shifting customer habits remain real challenges, the 2025 trends are clear: guests want experiences, community, and authenticity. Smart operators are using tech, local flavor, and interactive entertainment to build loyalty and unlock new profit centers.
If you’re looking for ways to drive more revenue without overextending your team, COAM skill games might be your next best asset. Want help tailoring a gaming activation for your space? We’re here to design the perfect gamified experience. Big profits, small footprint. Contact INAMAX today.
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