Food inflation and its impact on the restaurant sector: a case study of Shokoladnitsa coffee shop and cafe chain

The article examines the impact of food inflation on the restaurant business in Russia using the case of the “Shokoladnitsa” café chain. The research is based on interviews, market data, and regulatory frameworks. It demonstrates how rising ingredient costs lead to adjustments in business models, supply chains, menu structures, and digital processes. Special attention is given to company actions in response to cost increases, labor shortages, and shifting consumer behavior. Specific adaptation strategies are identified, including direct sourcing from farmers and the development of B2B segments. The study concludes that inflation acts as a catalyst for organizational transformation, requiring a reassessment of strategic models. The findings may serve as a practical basis for anti-crisis strategies in public catering.