IFDA Monthly Economic Update

Produced with Sage Policy Group, Inc., this monthly report is exclusively created for foodservice distribution leaders to help guide strategic business planning. It provides bite-sized data and analysis of macroeconomic trends and outlook, as well as tracking of the most industry-relevant economic indicators. The monthly format delivers information in a timely manner as new government and private-source data is released, offering unique real-time insight and more accurate short-term predictions. 

Key takeaways from the January 2026 issue:

The US economy continues to flash mixed signals, with consumer strength being offset by labor market weakness. GDP, retail sales and overall inflation data are cause for optimism, while employment growth remains a concern. While inflation was modest overall, grocery and menu prices are both trending higher. Economic policy is likely to be a key influence on economic performance this year.

• The economy has grown briskly in recent quarters, and consumers continue to spend.
• The labor market remains weak, and job growth was virtually nonexistent during Q4 2025.
• Restaurant spending has risen rapidly, as have restaurant prices.

Price: Free to all IFDA members as an exclusive member benefit.