CAEN Code Rev. 3

56

Restaurants

EU NACE Equivalent: NACE Rev. 3 — 56

This division covers all activities of serving prepared meals and beverages, from classic restaurants and fast-food outlets to catering and deliveries. Essentially, if you prepare and serve meals to customers (including events), you fall under this category.

Entrepreneur Profile

This CAEN code 56 is intended for entrepreneurs and companies (SRL, PFA) wishing to develop a business focused on restaurants. It is ideal for founders aiming to offer specialized services or products in this economic niche within the Romanian market.

Who should avoid:

Avoid the exclusive use of code 56 if the main activity of your company shifts towards other commercial or related branches not specified in the official description. See the excluded activities section below.

Industry Overview

The restaurant and food service industry is an important pillar of the Romanian economy, contributing significantly to GDP and job creation. In recent years, the sector has experienced remarkable dynamics, influenced by changing consumer habits, growing tourism, and the digitalization of delivery services. NACE division 56 includes not only classic restaurants but also fast-food units, canteens, catering, and even prepared meal delivery services, covering a wide range of business models. The evolution of this niche is largely due to technology adoption, from order management systems to online delivery platforms, which have opened new sales channels. From a macroeconomic perspective, the sector is sensitive to population purchasing power and consumption trends, as well as fiscal and sanitary regulations. Entrepreneurs face challenges related to raw material price fluctuations, lack of skilled labor, and seasonality. However, opportunities are significant, especially for those who manage to combine culinary concepts with effective digital marketing strategies and a strong online presence, essential for attracting modern customers. In conclusion, division 56 remains one of the most dynamic and adaptable branches of the local economy, with solid long-term growth prospects.


Included Activities

  • ✅ Classic restaurants
  • ✅ Fast-food restaurants
  • ✅ Self-service restaurants
  • ✅ Delivery of prepared food
  • ✅ Catering activities for events
  • ✅ Public food services in bars and canteens

Excluded Activities

  • ❌ Manufacture of food products (NACE 10)
  • ❌ Retail sale of unprepared food products (NACE 472)
  • ❌ Hotels with integrated restaurant (NACE 55)
  • ❌ Rental activities of cooking spaces (NACE 77)

Întrebări Frecvente

What type of companies can use CAEN code 56?

Any legal entity in Romania (SRL, PFA, Individual Enterprise) performing activities related to "restaurants" is required to have this code authorized in its articles of incorporation or at the Trade Register.

Are special permits required for CAEN 56?

The need for permits depends on the exact nature of the operations carried out under class 56. Some activities require authorizations from DSV, Environment, or Occupational Safety, while others can be conducted solely based on the self-declaration at incorporation.