The consumer is 'getting to the end of their rope', says Cameron Mitchell

Consumer Behavior & Market Trends - Chipotle experienced a decline in instore traffic for two consecutive quarters [1] - Cameron Mitchell Restaurants observed a potential shift towards more cautious consumer spending based on sales data [1] - The restaurant industry is facing challenges in maintaining profitability [5][6] - Consumers are starting to spend slightly less, potentially ordering fewer desserts or appetizers [9] - There's cautious optimism with recent same-store sales increases [3][9] Cost & Pricing Pressures - Cameron Mitchell Restaurants is approaching the limit of price increases it can implement in the market [3] - Rising meat prices are significantly impacting the company's profit and loss (P&L), potentially forcing price adjustments in the second half of the year [4] - Increased costs across labor, food, construction materials, and interest rates are impacting profitability [6] - Labor costs are up, but turnover is at an all-time low [7][8] Restaurant Industry Challenges - Many restaurant closures are occurring, particularly affecting independent restaurants with fewer resources [6][7] - Inflation and persistently high prices are making the restaurant business tougher [7]