Serving Up Trends

With the instability of the economy, the marketplace still shifting and the election year “dance” around tax laws, health-care costs and minimum wage requirements, consumers are cautious about spending. But, if they perceive good value they might be ready to put their hand in their pockets.  Yet, value has a different meaning to different people.

Whether it’s responsiveness to artisanal food, to new and current family dynamics, to clean label products or to location based mobile promos here is what you can expect in current trends.

Double-sided menus can be a way to satisfy the appetites of any diner. Whether their criteria is lower prices, good quality, and healthy snacks or indulgences, using double sided menus might be the answer. This can be a good strategy for healthy vs. indulgent, but also works for pricing.

New demographics of family affect the trends of diners.  With stay at home dads, grandparents as caregivers, blended families and women who might be the decision maker the market is changing.  To capitalize on the new demographics, restaurateurs must be prudent about how and what they are promoting.  Rather than how many burgers or how large the burger they slap on a bun, targeting the connoisseur instead of an eating machine will have a broader appeal.  Promote a universally quality message and maintain good price points will keep your restaurant filled with diners.
Clean ingredients and fine dining trends are filtering into the quick serve industry with the Slow Food movement following right behind.  Fresh, local, and organic foods are the way to go.  Diners are savvy today, and their awareness of what is being served has increased.  They want to know how food is raised or grown, and want to be assured of quality ingredients. This is becoming the norm.

Serve up these trends and you are sure to attract the new demographic of customers.