Are Your Restaurants Hitting the right NOTES?

The National Restaurant Association analyzes the latest restaurant trends each year. Their analysis includes both operator and consumer surveys. Here are several of the top trends they identified in their 2009 Restaurant Industry Forecast.

Local Sourcing

Consumers more than ever are passionate about eating local foods and generally knowing where their food is grown. Chefs believe this trend will continue to gain popularity among operators and consumers.

Are you more likely to visit a restaurant that offers locally produced food items?

  

Value

Value is the biggest buzz word for 2009 and perhaps moving forward in the minds of consumers.

Would you patronize a full service restaurant more frequently if it:

Offered discounts for frequent dining? 75%
Offered discounts for dining on less busy days of the week? 75%
Offered the option of small-sized portions for a lower price? 68%
Offered discounts for dining at off-peak times of the day? 64%

Healthy Eating

76% of adults say they are trying to eat healthier today in restaurants than they were two years ago. Restaurants are answering that call and offering more portion options and health-conscious options than ever before.

Are restaurants offering more healthy options than two years ago?

 

Sources: National Restaurant Association, Madison Marquette Market Research