Latest consumer insights from Dine Out’s annual Festive Research Report

Dine Out Magazine’s latest editorial piece has revealed the latest consumer trends from the annual Festive Research Report. The much anticipated report analyses consumer buying behaviour, giving business owners detailed insight into the latest trends to expect from the upcoming festive period and how they can capitalise on trade. 

This year’s edition collected responses from 537 candidates aged 18+, highlighting data from areas such as; average spend, consumer plans for the holiday period, specific choices for consumption (food and beverage) and the key factors that influence decision making on where to go for Christmas.

Using TouchOffice Web in in a festive setting

Which factors influence decision making on where to go

There are a range of factors consumers consider before making a decision on where to spend the festive season, some of which influence their decisions more than others. 

The latest research report has revealed the most influential factors when it comes to decision making on where to go. It comes as no surprise that consumers have reported ‘Price’ being the most influential factor (53%), due to the continuous rise in cost of living.  Price was closely followed by ‘Atmosphere’ (51%), therefore, pubs over the festive seasons should aim for creating affordable  Christmas menus and look at how they can create the best atmosphere possible, in order to attract as many consumers as possible.

Festive research bar chart

How to effectively attract consumers

In terms of advertisements, social media 37% is the most prevalent advertising platform influencing decision making with here to go, encouraging pubs and bars to up their social media marketing for maximum footfall.  Interestingly, online reviews seem to influence people’s decision less whether they are positive or negative.  So whether you’re giving your menu a festive spin, or planning on hosting ticketed events, make sure to promote them on your social media platforms in the coming weeks.

 

Festive report pie chart

Merry Christmas for hospitality

Over two-thirds of respondents stated they would go to a pub, bar or restaurant on Christmas Day, meaning the festive season looks promising for the hospitality sector. Consumers are expecting to pay around £89 on food with an additional £80 on drinks, so with this in mind, pubs and bars can tactically upsell certain items and tailor their selections to both maximise profits and meet customer expectations.

Key factors hospitality businesses should consider 

  • Engaging TouchMenu displays can contribute towards attracting consumers as price and atmosphere are considered the most important factors when it comes to consumer decision making.

 

  • Social media channels are the most influential platforms for advertising therefore your Christmas campaigns can play a pivotal role in your business’s festive success.

 

  • With increased footfall you’ll be getting through your stock way quicker which is why we recommend to streamline your stock management with TouchStock and ensure you don’t run out of your best sellers.

 

  • With more consumer’s there’s going to be an inevitable delay in service.  Solutions such as the PocketTouch digital order taking and TouchKitchen order management system will empower your team to take and complete orders quicker. 

The festive season is undoubtedly a challenging period for the hospitality industry, but it’s one that can ultimately bear fruit. The busy period can easily be streamlined by implementing a range of robust and reliable systems to speed up service and improve customer experience. Find out how ICRTouch solutions can support your business over the festive season by reaching out to a local Authorised Partner.

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