Small sign of consumer improvement
The Restaurant Performance Index from the National Restaurant Association doesn't get much attention in markets but, in theory, restaurant spending is a great proxy for consumers.
The index released today rose to 101.6 from 100.7, a 0.9% rise. The index also rose 0.9% year-over-year.
"The RPI's April increase was driven by a solid gain in the Current Situation Index, which saw all four of its indicators improve from their March levels," the release said. "In contrast, the Expectations Index softened for the third consecutive month, as restaurant operators grew more uncertain about future business conditions."
The reports on traffic and sales were positive.
"A majority of restaurant operators reported higher same- store sales in April, with results representing a solid improvement from the March levels."
There are more details in the video from the National Restaurant Association.
