Thinking of Buying a Thai Restaurant in Australia? Here Are 3 Vital Questions to Ask

The Australian restaurant industry generated $24.1 billion in revenue in 2025, employing 176,697 people across 29,116 enterprises. Profit margins averaged 3.9%, reflecting high operating costs and strong competition.

Revenue is forecast to grow modestly at 1.0% annually through 2030, reaching $25.5 billion. Thai restaurants are well placed within this growth, benefiting from consumer appetite for multicultural dining, authentic flavours, and the popularity of takeaway and delivery services. However, cost-of-living pressures, wage rises, and food price volatility continue to weigh on profitability.

1. Is the Business Financially Resilient in a Low-Margin Industry?

Why It Matters

Thai restaurants, like most in the hospitality sector, operate on slim margins. Financial sustainability depends on managing costs, maintaining steady demand across dine-in and off-premise channels, and keeping cash flow stable during seasonal slowdowns.

What to Check

• Profitability – Benchmark against the industry’s 3.9% average margin.

• Revenue streams – Review reliance on dine-in compared with takeaway and delivery.

• Cost pressures – Assess impact of rent, wages, utilities, and food inputs such as rice, herbs, and seafood.

• Cash flow – Examine ability to withstand downturns in discretionary spending.

2. Does the Restaurant Have Strong Market Positioning and Customer Demand?

Why It Matters

The success of a Thai restaurant hinges on authenticity, customer loyalty, and location. Operators offering diverse menus, regional specialities, and consistent quality are best positioned to build repeat patronage. Proximity to multicultural hubs, universities, or high-footfall precincts is also a major driver.

What to Check

• Menu range – Confirm inclusion of popular dishes alongside regional or specialty options.

• Customer base – Identify reliance on locals, families, students, tourists, or office workers.

• Reputation – Review online reviews, ratings, and community engagement.

• Location strength – Evaluate visibility, accessibility, and proximity to direct competitors.

3. Is the Business Aligned with Industry Trends and Future Growth?

Why It Matters

Dining trends favour convenience, healthier eating, and sustainable practices. Thai restaurants that embrace plant-based options, eco-friendly packaging, and digital integration can differentiate themselves and attract a wider customer base.

What to Check

• Delivery integration – Verify partnerships with major delivery apps or efficient in-house systems.

• Health-conscious options – Check for lighter, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free menu items.

• Sustainability – Assess environmentally friendly sourcing, packaging, and waste reduction strategies.

• Technology use – Review online booking systems, digital menus, and loyalty programs.

Ready to Invest in a Thriving Thai Restaurant Business?

With strong consumer demand for authentic Asian cuisines and steady growth in takeaway and delivery, Thai restaurants are a resilient and attractive investment.

Success will depend on financial management, strong positioning, and alignment with health, sustainability, and digital dining trends.

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