The Panhellenic Federation of Restaurant and Related Professions has expressed concern over the state of Greece’s restaurant sector, following data from the Hellenic Statistical Authority (ELSTAT) showing a 1.9% decline in turnover in the first quarter of 2026 compared with the same period in 2025.According to the federation, the decline is occurring in a highly inflationary environment, with official inflation standing at 3%. It says the decline reflects a contraction in real consumption and growing pressure on the businesses of the sector.In its statement, the federation describes a “suffocating environment” for businesses within the sector. It argues that the hospitality industry has been subjected to ongoing devaluation in recent years and has been adversely affected by policies that foster unfair competition among similar enterprises.Meanwhile, professionals across the country are expressing deep concern about the viability of their businesses and jobs, emphasising that the restaurant industry is a key pillar of employment, entrepreneurship, and Greek tourism.Therefore, the federation is asking the government and political parties for a plan to support the sector, “with substantive solutions and avoiding policies that lead to new dead ends.”