The restaurant industry is the most labor-intensive industry in the country.

Bolstered by record warm temperatures in many parts of the country, a majority of restaurant operators reported January gains in same-store sales and customer traffic. In addition, operators reported a boost in plans for hiring and capital expenditures -- positive developments for both the restaurant industry and the overall economy.

It makes sense - particularly at larger companies that have human resource functions that are planning out long term - that when they look ahead, they obviously are going to work harder at retaining those individuals. Unless you have the skill set, customer counts can suffer.

Another feature typical of fast-casual outlets is entertainment value, as many have employees prepare meals in a display kitchen while the customer is watching, and the decor and atmosphere are often trendy and incorporate original art and the restaurant's mission and philosophy.

The challenge is to maintain high-touch in a high-tech environment.

Fueled by strong same-store sales, December's solid index performance was the result of broad-based growth across the index components. Three out of five restaurant operators reported a same-store sales gain in December -- the strongest level in 12 months. In addition, the Expectations Index posted its fourth consecutive monthly increase, which points toward growth in sales, staffing levels and capital expenditures during the next several months.