Final answer:
The restaurant and foodservice industry employs a vast number of people, contributing significantly to the U.S. economy with employment opportunities ranging from large to small-scale businesses.
Step-by-step explanation:
The restaurant and foodservice industry is a significant sector of the economy, employing a vast number of individuals. While the exact number of employees can fluctuate, it is a part of the tertiary sector which nearly 80 percent of the U.S. workforce is employed in. This industry includes a range of employers from large firms with more than 500 workers to small-scale businesses and 'non-employer' businesses that contribute to the overall employment numbers. Additionally, the fast-food segment within this industry is experiencing growth, indicating an increase in employment opportunities. With a labor force participation reflecting hundreds of thousands of employees within larger firms and the inclusion of smaller entities, the restaurant and foodservice industry embodies a diverse array of employment possibilities.