As our society continues to move along the rapidly expanding path of technology and convenience, it is more important than ever for the restaurant industry to keep up with consumer restaurant trends to gain a competitive edge. As a franchisor looking to expand locations, understanding local food trends is essential to success. When analyzing these trends, the following important points must be considered:
1. Consider User data –
User data is a key factor in understanding restaurant trends. With the emergence of customer feedback platforms and social media, entrepreneurs have a wealth of data at their fingertips, giving insight into customer preferences as well as allowing for tailored marketing strategies and promotions. When analyzing user data, it is important to look beyond the surface level and take into account more nuanced variables such as age, time of day, and user sentiment.
2. Leverage Technology –
The restaurant industry is quickly adapting to the digital landscape, with many establishments now providing customers with innovative technology such as app-based ordering, table-side payments, and digital menus. This technology allows restaurants to collect more comprehensive data sets, as well as improve the overall customer experience. As a franchisor, it is important to identify which platforms will be most beneficial and can offer the greatest competitive advantage.
3. Utilize Social Media –
Social media can be a powerful tool for restaurant operators. Platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter can be used to engage with customers, promote new products, and provide access to valuable content. Additionally, with a few simple steps, restaurants can leverage the vast data available on these platforms to gain a better understanding of their target demographic, as well as establish a presence in their local market.
4. Analyze Menus –
One of the best ways to stay informed of restaurant trends is to closely observe menus. This includes tracking newcomers, analyzing popular items, noting any changes or trends, as well as researching competitors. Breakfasts, lunch, and dinner menus can provide insights into trends in the industry, helping to distinguish what is popular and what is falling out of favor.
5. Monitor Location Trends –
Location plays an important role in restaurant success, as different regions often have different tastes and preferences. As a franchisor, it is important to research local competition, as well as keep an eye on real estate trends. Additionally, looking for areas with high population growth can be a useful indicator of where potential customers are likely to be found.
6. Examine Meal Trends –
Meal trends are often a good way to understand customer preferences. Additionally, by tracking common ingredient trends as well as specific dishes, restaurant CEOs can identify emerging culinary trends and use them to adapt their menus. Traditional meals such as sandwiches, pizza, salad, and tacos are still popular among customers, while more global meals such as sushi, chow mein, and shawarma are on the rise.
7. Consider Health and Dietary Preferences –
Health and dietary preferences are playing an increasingly important role in the restaurant industry. More and more health-conscious consumers are seeking out healthy options, as well as foods that meet certain dietary restrictions. As such, it is important for franchisors to consider these preferences when designing menus and any promotional materials. This includes offering vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and paleo-friendly items, as well as providing nutritional information for customers.
8. Focus on Leadership –
At the helm of any successful restaurant business is an effective leader. To stay competitive, owners and franchisors must prioritize hiring the best people, as well as recognizing and developing future leaders. It can be beneficial to have a clear chain of command as well as an open line of communication between relevant departments.
9. Understand Delivery and Takeaway –
Many customers now prefer delivery and takeaway rather than dining in. As such, it is important for restaurant operators to understand the needs and expectations of these customers. Additionally, optimizing processes for delivery and takeaway orders should be a top priority, as this can determine whether or not customers return.
10. Monitor Food Safety and Regulations –
Food safety is an important consideration, as customers are increasingly concerned about where their food is coming from and how it is prepared. As a franchisor, it is important to understand the local regulations and standards, as well as regularly review menus and preparing habits to ensure compliance with these laws.
For any business looking to capitalize on industry trends, the points listed above should be considered. With careful observation and the utilization of the right data, franchisors can gain an edge in the increasingly competitive restaurant market.
