three in four people think the economy has prompted the average consumer to eat out less often. Yet despite declining visits to restaurants, consumers indicate they are just as loyal (68%), or even more loyal (15%) to the restaurants they frequent.
“In hard times, many consumers crave familiarity and reliability. When choosing to dine out, it’s no different,” said Gary Edwards, Empathica EVP of Client Services. “If they’re spending their hard-earned money on a meal, they want to know they’ll be getting good food and an experience they’ll enjoy.”
Edwards explained that in order for brands to grow their customer base today, they must provide a trigger that prompts a consumer to try something that’s out of their comfort zone.
