Datassential recently released its Mid-Year Trends Report, and the post-pandemic resurgence of pickup and takeout stood out as a noteworthy movement impacting the food and beverage industry.
As the dust from the COVID-19 pandemic finally settles, the dining landscape is reshaping itself in unexpected ways. While some might have predicted the dominance of delivery services, it’s pickup and takeout that have emerged as the champions of the moment. Nearly half of operators report an increase in these formats, suggesting that consumers still crave the convenience of restaurant-quality meals without the frills of in-person dining.
While in-person dining is making a modest comeback – with 55% of fast-casual operators noting an uptick – the allure of simply grabbing your meal and going remains strong. This rise in pickup and takeout speaks to a deeper trend: the desire for flexibility. Consumers want the best of both worlds – a restaurant experience on their terms, minus the commitment of sitting down for a meal.
Other noteworthy dining stats so far in 2024:
- 46% of operators observed an increase in in-person dining over the past year
- 48% of restaurant operators reported a surge in takeout orders
- 55% of fast-casual operators saw a rise in in-person dining
Video Gaming: The New Frontier for Food and Beverage Marketing
Once the domain of the teenage bedroom, video gaming has grown into a cultural juggernaut, infiltrating every corner of American life. Nearly 200 million Americans now count themselves as gamers, and this digital pastime is influencing far more than just entertainment choices. A staggering 45% of gamers have been swayed to make food and beverage purchases based on in-game content or advertisements.
This is particularly pronounced among younger demographics – Gen Z and Millennials – who are more likely to identify as avid gamers. The blending of gaming and dining experiences presents a ripe opportunity for brands to capture attention and wallets in new and innovative ways. The line between the virtual and the real continues to blur, making gaming a fertile ground for those looking to make an impact in the food industry.
Noteworthy stats pertaining to gamers:
- 23% of Americans identify as avid gamers, with a higher percentage among Gen Z (37%) and Millennials (33%)
- 45% of gamers have made a food or beverage purchase influenced by gaming-related content
Pad Thai: A Noodle Dish with Staying Power
In the ever-evolving world of food trends, Pad Thai has proven itself not just as a dish, but as a canvas for culinary creativity. The rise of Pad Thai, particularly its vegetable and chicken variants, signals more than just a love for Thai cuisine – it’s a reflection of broader consumer desires for customization and health-conscious eating.
The pandemic accelerated this trend, as more consumers sought out familiar yet adaptable dishes. Vegetable Pad Thai, in particular, has seen a 64% growth on menus in the past 12 months, driven by an increasing preference for plant-based options. Meanwhile, Chicken Pad Thai boasts an 81% projected growth over the next four years, according to AI predictions.
The story of Pad Thai’s rise is one of versatility. Whether it’s the plant-based trend, the need for affordable protein options, or simply the comfort of a well-balanced noodle dish, Pad Thai ticks all the boxes, making it a menu mainstay with a future as bright as its flavor.
Noteworthy Pad Thai stats:
- +64% 12-month growth on menus for Vegetable Pad Thai.
- +81% 4-year AI projected growth for Chicken Pad Thai.
- +52% 4-year AI projected growth for Vegetable Pad Thai.
In a world where trends come and go as quickly as a fleeting Instagram story, these three takeaways from Datassential’s Mid-Year Trends Report offer a glimpse into the evolving tastes and preferences shaping the food and beverage industry. The return of pickup and takeout, the burgeoning influence of video gaming, and the enduring appeal of Pad Thai are all testaments to a dining landscape in constant flux, driven by the desires of a consumer who craves both novelty and nostalgia.
The Food Institute Podcast
In this episode of The Food Institute Podcast, IFDA President and CEO Mark S. Allen discussed the pressing challenges and innovative solutions in the foodservice distribution industry. Allen delved into topics such as labor shortages, transportation issues, technology advancements, and the importance of industry events like IFDA’s Solutions Conference.
