NPD Says Independent Restaurants Slid Three Percent Since 2014

The total number of U.S. restaurants dropped one percent since last year to 630,511 units, thanks largely to a three percent drop in independents, according to NPD Group. A one percent increase in chain restaurants offset the drop in total restaurants. Fast casual chain restaurants soared seven percent. The drop in independents was largely due to a three percent slide in full-service independents, including casual dining, midscale/family dining, and fine dining restaurants. An NPD Group analyst said independent restaurants have it rough, especially in a down economy, because they do not have the resources of a chain to sustain themselves in hard times.