Consumer Trends

Chick-fil-A dominates teen dining preferences for the seventh consecutive year, capturing 17% of votes in Piper Sandler's latest "Taking Stock with Teens" survey, outpacing McDonald's (11%) and Chipotle (10%). The Atlanta-based quick-service chain dethroned Starbucks from the top spot years ago and continues its reign among younger consumers. However, teen spending declined 6% year-over-year to $2,213, reflecting broader economic pressures on this key demographic.

Grocery store delis are stealing customers from restaurants as shoppers hunt for better value and convenience. New FMI research shows the percentage of people choosing deli meals over dining out has more than doubled since 2017, jumping from 12% to 28%. The $52.1 billion retail foodservice market keeps growing, with fully cooked meats, pizza and sushi leading sales gains. Shoppers say grocery-prepared foods offer the same value as restaurants while saving time and money. Most want grocers to act more like restaurants with online menus, advance ordering and drive-thru options.