5 Trends To Watch In January 2022
Published on January 22, 2022
Operator: Robot Ordering
Table of Contents
What to Know
Technology in restaurants has grown rapidly in the pandemic but perceptions of technology and robot usage in foodservice continue to evolve. Among the two primary digitally savvy generational cohorts, the appeal of robots and unmanned means of delivery for restaurant operations has diminished over time.
Gen Zers see a greater two-year percentage-point decrease in appeal of robots taking orders compared to millennials.
16% of Gen Z consumers say robots that can take their order are very appealing
Consumer: Social Justice Activism
What to Know
Younger consumers have always been socially conscious, but relative to the consumer average, Gen Z diners tend to overindex for the number who say restaurants should play an active role in various social justice issues.
Issues closely related to the foodservice industry—fair wages and food insecurity—matter most to consumers. Climate change and LGBTQ+ rights are the issues where the Gen Z gap is highest relative to the consumer average.
44% of Gen Z consumers believe restaurants should play an active role in climate change issues
Menu: Gen Z Loyalty
What to Know
Gen Z consumers continue to have the highest monthly-plus visitation at quick-service restaurants. This is likely due in part to life stage and income. Many quick-service operators are appealing to Gen Z consumers through celebrity meals and endorsements to help build loyalty and draw in consumers on their apps. This is seen at McDonald’s with the Travis Scott meal, and at Dunkin’ through a collaboration with TikTok star Charlie D’Amelio.
As Gen Z consumers continue to gain income, their loyalty will become increasingly important.
27% of Gen Z consumers visit fast-food restaurants monthly or more often
New Items/LTOs: Breakfast Beverages
What to Know
Younger, Gen Z consumers are known for their higher interest in unique and trending innovation at restaurants. Looking at breakfast beverages specifically, sweet-flavored ingredients and cold coffee beverages index highest for Gen Z consumer purchase intent.
Examples like the Iced Matcha White Chocolate Tea Latte from Caribou Coffee and Mocha Iced Coffee from Del Taco showcase very sweet, indulgent flavors.
Global: Price Sensitivity
What to Know
Globally, Gen Zers think that the price for the overall dining experience and quality of the food are the most important components of the value equation. Budget constrictions are particularly prominent with Gen Z consumers in Southeast Asia.
The top countries in which Gen Zers report that value allows them to more easily justify spending money on eating out are the Philippines (64%), Indonesia (60%) and Singapore (55%).
