Eat Out and Yoco are teaming up to support the South African restaurant industry in a collaboration that makes perfect sense. Both are committed to fostering positive change within the sector and both understand the dining experience intrinsically. Yoco has transformed the way restaurants operate in South Africa with its cutting-edge fintech solutions, while Eat Out has long been a restaurant champion, providing restaurateurs with a platform to connect with diners, celebrate excellence and access vital resources to enhance their businesses. 

Official Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards sponsor 

With a shared commitment to innovation and small-business growth, Yoco and Eat Out are dedicated to supporting and strengthening the restaurant industry. That’s why, as one aspect of the collaboration, Eat Out was thrilled to announce Yoco as the official sponsor of the Best New Restaurant award at the Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards 2025. Cyra was unveiled as the winner and chef Candice Philip took to the stage to accept the award at the new-look event on 31 March at the Baxter Theatre Centre in Cape Town. 

Introducing the Eat Out Yoco Industry Research Report 

In the second phase of the partnership, with Yoco’s backing, Eat Out was able to conduct a comprehensive survey to gauge current trends within the South African restaurant industry. The survey targeted both diners and restaurateurs, providing a 360-degree view of the industry’s challenges, opportunities and emerging trends. 

The result? Eat Out’s first-ever industry research report – a groundbreaking tool that offers valuable insights to help restaurant professionals make informed decisions, adapt to shifting consumer preferences, and ultimately grow their businesses. This report is packed with key data on what diners love, what turns them away and what restaurant owners can do to stay ahead. 

Yoco has supported this important initiative because it understands that the restaurant industry is about more than just great food – it’s about providing exceptional service, understanding customer needs, and making informed business decisions. “We want to ensure that restaurant owners have access to data-driven insights that can help them thrive in an increasingly competitive market,” says Carl Wazen, co-founder of Yoco. Investing in a stronger, more resilient restaurant industry – one that is equipped with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate change and seize new opportunities – benefits the entire hospitality sector. 

A shared vision  

A combination of the values of both entities has made the report possible. Through its platform, Yoco enables entrepreneurs to accept payments, manage operations, and scale their businesses with ease. It’s more than just a payments provider, it’s seen as a partner in restaurant business growth. At the heart of Yoco’s philosophy is a deep understanding of what drives dining behaviours and trends. This ensures that restaurant owners using Yoco’s services are equipped with the tools and insights necessary to thrive in a competitive and ever-changing market.  

Through its awards, reviews and editorial content, Eat Out highlights top-performing restaurants, encouraging higher standards in food quality and service. It supports industry transformation, amplifying diverse voices and sustainable initiatives, as well as providing a platform for restaurants to connect with diners, helping businesses grow and thrive. 

A game-changer for restaurateurs 

The Eat Out Yoco Industry Research Report is an invaluable resource for restaurant professionals at every stage of their journey. It dives into: 

• Consumer dining trends – understanding what influences dining decisions, from menu preferences to overall experiences. 

• Operational best practices – strategies successful restaurateurs are implementing to stay competitive, including focusing on service. 

• Industry challenges and opportunities – insights into the biggest hurdles facing restaurants today and how to navigate them. 

•  Innovation – how the industry is evolving to meet the growing demand for local sourcing and unique dining experiences. 

With access to this data, restaurateurs can refine their offerings, enhance customer experiences and future-proof their businesses against economic uncertainties and shifting market dynamics. 

Get your free copy  

If you’re a restaurant owner, chef or industry stakeholder, this report is a must-read. Packed with data-driven insights and actionable strategies, it will help you stay ahead of the curve and make informed decisions for your business. 

Sign up for the Eat Out Industry newsletter today to receive your free copy of the Eat Out Industry Research Report! 

Together, Eat Out and Yoco are committed to building a more innovative, resilient, and thriving restaurant industry. Don’t miss out on this essential resource. Subscribe now and take your restaurant to the next level!