Of consumers surveyed during May and June by Market Force Information, 25 percent said they plan to eat out more over the next three months. That’s a significant jump from the December, 2009 survey, when just 5 percent responded with the same intention. Here are more results from the most recent Market Force dining preferences/trends survey:
- Only 8 percent of consumers are now indicating that fear about the economy will prevent them from eating out compared to 50 percent in December.
- About 25 percent of those surveyed visit QSRs for reasons other than convenience and price. They go to spend time with family and friends, for special occasions and for great tasting meals.
- Concerns about nutrition and weight are growing. In the survey, 42 percent ranked menu labeling of nutritional and caloric information as “very” important and 45 percent as “somewhat” important.
- Restaurants’ responsibility for portion control is top of mind for consumers. More than 36 percent considered it as “very” important and 45 percent as “somewhat” important.
- Social media marketing is an increasingly effective way to communicate. About 50 percent of patrons sometimes read online reviews, blogs and tweets about restaurants to get recommendations and 13 percent posted an online review after eating out.
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