RTL Z recently came out with an article showing that the hospitality industry is facing a tough time in 2025. High energy costs, more expensive purchase prices and especially personnel costs are making it increasingly difficult for business owners to keep their heads above water. Fast food outlets in particular are having a tough time. The problem? Personnel have become more expensive, and you notice that in the price of your fries. This calls for smart and sustainable choices in all areas.

Personnel costs rise

Jack van Hooft, owner of a snack bar in Tilburg, explains it simply: "The fries are expensive? The young person baking it is expensive." Staff is becoming more and more expensive, and that means higher costs for the business. Students working in the hospitality industry now earn around €16.50 an hour. This is difficult for many business owners to sustain, especially when prices are already going up due to higher costs for energy and purchasing products.

Fast food outlets have it harder

Fast food outlets are being hit harder by price increases than more expensive restaurants. Consumers, especially young people, are spending less on fast food and are more often choosing cheaper options, such as grocery shopping at the supermarket. As a result, fast food entrepreneurs are seeing their sales decline, while restaurants seem to be doing better.

What can entrepreneurs do?

There are entrepreneurs who are trying to find smart solutions. Some purchase together with other restaurant operators to cut costs. Others choose to purchase ready-made meals so they need fewer staff. This can help reduce costs, but it remains to be seen whether it adds to the hospitality industry's conviviality.

Solutions lie in smart choices

Horeca consultant Rob Scholten advises entrepreneurs to focus on products with low purchasing costs and good sales, such as pizzas, pancakes or French fries. He says, "As an entrepreneur, think more with your wallet, and less with your heart. Only then can you survive in this industry."

So the hospitality industry is in a tough spot, but there are ways to cut costs and keep their heads above water. Smart choices about purchasing and staffing can help business owners get through the tough times.

Price sustainable(er) disposables as low as ever

In addition to smart choices in purchasing and personnel, now is a good time to look at sustainability, such as the use of environmentally friendly disposables. At TakeAware you always buy your sustainable(er) disposables at a low price, without compromising on quality! Check out our paper bags or sugar cane trays, for example, or take a look at our full range.

Using our environmentally friendly disposables not only helps you save costs, but also reinforces your company's sustainable image. Moreover, it ensures that you are prepared for future obligations under SUP legislation, so that unexpected costs are avoided.