The next generation of diners

There have been countless studies on the dining habits of Millennials, Gen Z, and even the boomers, but the next generation to watch out for is the Alpha generation. Born after 2010, these school-aged customers are growing up tech-focused, globally informed, and have different likes and needs when they visit a restaurant. These factors make […]

Diners are looking for memorable restaurant experiences

As the foodservice industry continues to evolve, studies show that there has been a long-term shift in what customers are looking for when they dine out. Whether it’s as a result of the pandemic or has more to do with spending dollars wisely amid inflation, diners are looking for meaningful, lasting experiences from restaurants. Restaurants […]

Consumers are still sweet on chocolate

Chocolate has always topped the favourites list for desserts, with 86 per cent of Canadians having consumed chocolate within the last three months. However, from rising health concerns to flavour preferences, how can restaurants include sweet treats on their menu that will appeal to guests and raise cheque totals? Health vs. indulgence The ever-increasing desire […]

Delivery trends have some restaurants adjusting their approach

Off-premise dining remains a fan favourite for consumers, with dining out remaining only slightly more popular. In fact, 58 per cent of consumers have ordered delivery in the last month, compared to 62 per cent who have dined in a restaurant. The frequency of ordering has increased, too, with 51 per cent of Canadians ordering […]

Taking it back to traditional restaurant marketing

Does your brand strategy include traditional marketing? In recent years, many restaurants have replaced their customary marketing with social media to promote their businesses and grow their brands. Putting all your eggs in one basket may be a mistake, though. It’s important to embrace a diverse approach to marketing, engaging your customers on different levels […]

Trend Watch: Marigold, stinging nettle, ajo blanco

By Katie Belflower For restaurants and chefs it’s important to be innovate as a way to stand out in a competitive marketplace. Staying up to date on the latest food trends is one way to stay a step ahead and treat your guests to something new and delicious. This latest edition of Trend Watch focuses on three menu […]

Diners choose pickup over delivery as inflated costs continue

In the last few years, off-premise dining has become so popular, but these days, pickup is surpassing delivery for diners. As prices continue to remain high, this shift could be a result of consumers watching their wallets, attempting to save a few dollars by skipping the delivery fees. Because restaurants don’t typically add a charge […]

Use technology to get more Gen Z diners into your restaurant

Restaurant operators are always looking for new ways to connect with their customers to engage and encourage return visits. From your website to your loyalty program, looking at real data is the best way analyze who is visiting, how often, what they are ordering, how much they are spending, and more. Getting specific on generational […]

Sustainability is on the menu for many QSRs

Sustainability continues to be at the top of consumer lists as they support their favourite businesses, and restaurants are no exception. Diners are looking for restaurants that are striving to lower their carbon footprints, and they’re even willing to pay up to 10 per cent more in those establishments. What does sustainability look like to […]

Restaurant transparency is crucial as inflation continues

As Canadians continue to face record-breaking inflation, the term shrinkflation has emerged, reflecting when the prices rise or remain the same but the portion or serving size is reduced. This has affected many restaurant menus and diners who might be paying more for less, as operators try to recoup costs and stay afloat. Shelflation is […]