Three-fourths of consumers (73%) say that if they try a menu item with an innovative flavor and enjoy it, they are more likely to return to the restaurant for the same item, according to the recent Flavor Consumer Trend Report compiled by Technomic. What does this mean for restaurant operators? Staying at the forefront of flavor is essential not only for differentiation, but also to maintain customer interest and satisfaction. Be sure to communicate new flavor additions to keep your guests coming back for more.
More reasons to start spicing up your menu:
- 54% of consumers prefer very spicy foods and sauces, compared to just 48% in 2011 and 46 percent in 2009
- 67% of consumers indicate that “savory” is an appealing flavor, followed by “spicy” and “smoky” (both 52%)
- 37% of consumers say they are increasingly driven to try new flavors
- 41% of consumers say that new flavors can influence them to visit a restaurant
- Technomic data shows that sweet flavors pair well with the most number of other flavors, including savory, sour, smoky or spicy profiles
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