How restaurants can handle the K-shaped economy

How restaurants can handle the K-shaped economy

From A Deeper Dive by Restaurant Business Magazine

May 27, 2026 · 27 min

About this episode

This episode discusses how restaurants can navigate the challenges of the K-shaped economy with insights from Michelle Korsmo, president and CEO of the National Restaurant Association.

How can restaurants deal with the K-shaped economy? This week’s episode of the Restaurant Business podcast A Deeper Dive features Michelle Korsmo, the president and CEO of the National Restaurant Association. We typically interview Korsmo at the National Restaurant Association Show every year. This year, we discussed a variety of topics, including the association’s legislative priorities, how it deals with the White House, technology, industry trends and other topics. We also talk about the economy and its impact on restaurants. The economy is bifurcated. Wealthier consumers have money. Low-income consumers do not. And they are cutting back. The result is a wide gulf in performance between restaurant chains. It’s always interesting chatting with Korsmo, so check it out. Visit our website: https://www.restaurantbusinessonline.com

People in this episode

Host: Restaurant Business Magazine

Guest: Michelle Korsmo

Topics covered

  • K-shaped economy
  • restaurant industry
  • legislative priorities
  • technology
  • consumer behavior
  • economic impact

Keywords

  • K-shaped economy
  • restaurants
  • National Restaurant Association
  • economic impact
  • consumer behavior
  • industry trends

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: National Restaurant Association, Restaurant Business Magazine

Places: White House

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