More than half of consumers purchase food for takeout at least once a week, according to Technomic.
Takeout remains a growing force in today's foodservice industry, impacting operators across all segments. In fact, 51 percent of consumers report purchasing food for takeout at least once a week, according to data from Technomic. While takeout is synonymous with fast-food, prepared food from grocery stores is used more often for takeout than any other segment, Technomic found.
"Convenience is key for the takeout customer," said Joe Pawlak, senior vice president at Technomic. "They want consistently high-quality, well-packaged meal solutions that can be sourced in truly convenient ways. Enhanced amenities and services—from updated delivery and call-ahead services to easy-to-use mobile apps and online ordering platforms—can help provide an edge over competitors and improve takeout and catering sales."
Other key findings from Technomic's Takeout & Off-Premise Dining Consumer Trend Report include:
- Takeout consumers expect consistency and look for takeout fare to match dine-in occasions; out of all traffic drivers measured, including freshness, temperature and portion size, consumers say it is most important for takeout and dine-in food to taste the same.
- Fifty six percent of consumers say a convenient location is one of the most important factors in deciding where to purchase takeout; 48 percent report that quick food preparation is an important consideration in this decision.
- Call-ahead services are vital; 69 percent of limited-service takeout customers and 61 percent of full-service takeout consumers say they would likely use call-ahead ordering if it was offered.
