Coda: we got thinking about economics. If a table is available for sit down diners and is turnedoverfive times withan average ticket of $60, that is $300. Profit margins for restaurants are quite low between 3% and 10%. So for that $300 of revenue the business may make between $9 and $30 in profit. The opportunity cost of losing this revenue for a table out all day is therefore between $9 and $30. The opportunity to get a greater profit from retail sales, new customer acquisition, and gift card purchase makes the market placetableoption enticing by adding and increasing revenue streams. Not tomention the market place can be quickly struck and table returned to full service dining options when needed making the opportunity cost even less. Seldom is outdoor dining fully occupied except during peak times. For thatreason the market placeoption makes dollars and sense.
