April restaurant survey data indicated a -1.0% decline in same-store sales and -3.3% decline in traffic. Although industry same-store sales have remained negative for 12 out of the past 13 months, April results reflected a marginal improvement from the results seen in both February and March. Based on performance, fine dining, upscale casual, and family casual displayed the strongest gains in same-store sales in April, while the previously top performing QSR segment was one of the weakest. Despite challenges faced in the industry, M&A activity remains strong and strategics have increased their appetite in acquiring concepts that provide an avenue for increased growth. Read the report for more detail on industry trends, market indices, public market performance and deal activity.

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