Consumer Trends

Consumer trends, insights and preferences

The secrets behind the top LTOs of 2021

By Patricia Cobe on Feb. 23, 2022

A good limited-time offer should encourage purchase, but the most successful ones share other winning traits.

Consumers now care more about how employees are treated, study finds

By Peter Romeo on Feb. 02, 2022

Patrons will readily shift their loyalties on the basis of how staffs are handled, particularly on COVID safety issues, according to the findings.

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Want to know where restaurants are headed? Follow Gen Z

By Joe Guszkowski on Jan. 31, 2022

The younger generation is far more likely to use modern innovations like alcohol delivery and digital ordering. Their habits point the way to future growth.

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For many customers, food delivery often a failure

By Joe Guszkowski on Jan. 27, 2022

Nearly six in 10 tend to be underwhelmed by the experience. That’s just one of the surprising findings in a new consumer survey.

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For consumers, delivery reigns but buffets are bouncing back, says Yelp report

By Heather Lalley on Jan. 27, 2022

The 2021 Yelp Economic Average studied search terms on the review platform to track the pandemic’s continued impact on restaurants.

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What'll it be for a COVID-wisened industry, experience or convenience?

By Nancy Kruse and Peter Romeo on Jan. 20, 2022

Sweet & Sour: Nancy Kruse and Peter Romeo look at the oft-voiced theory that the pandemic has shifted the focus of restaurant customers and operators to the convenience of takeout and delivery. Neither one is buying it. Some axe throwing and a drink, anyone?

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Restaurants and bars up their zero-alcohol game to keep pace with Dry January

By Patricia Cobe on Jan. 12, 2022

Drinkers who overindulged during the holidays and the growing ranks of sober-curious consumers are gravitating toward alcohol-free cocktails this month.

Consumer Trends

The rise of plant-based diets: Consumers seeking healthier, cleaner options

Sponsored content from our partner Idahoan Foods on Dec. 29, 2021

Health-conscious consumers are increasingly seeking ways to promote wellness across all aspects of their lives, and unsurprisingly, eating a healthy diet is a cornerstone. Currently, the growing appeal of plant-based foods and diets is likely correlated with the growing number of consumers preferring a healthier diet—and for that reason, it’s crucial that operators develop strategies to leverage each of these trends in conjunction.

Consumer Trends