The fast casual segment is often seen - or the companies within the segment - often see their selves as some what recession-proof as consumers that normally frequent the casual dining segment trade down to this category. Consumers perceive this segment as offering quality food at less price than the casual segment. In the past 10 years though, many companies have flooded in to this segment and now this is a very crowded space. What are companies going to be able to do to maintain and grow business? What companies are the most likely to disappear over the next couple of years.
As a consumer, I am most likely to continue patronizing my local mom and pop fast casual venues. As long as the food is still good, the service friendly and the atmosphere unique, I don't mind the inevitable price increases to come... as long as they're not over the top.