What Restaurants Can Learn About Holiday Sales from Research

 

The holiday season offers a golden opportunity for restaurants to capitalize on evolving consumer behavior, particularly during Thanksgiving, where convenience and quality drive demand. Popmenu’s latest survey reveals compelling insights into how consumers are embracing Ready-2-Eat and Heat-n-Eat meal solutions, creating lucrative opportunities for innovative restaurants according to Steven Johnson Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions®.

Thanksgiving Dining Trends: Opportunities for Restaurants

This year, 37% of consumers plan to order takeout or delivery from restaurants for Thanksgiving—a notable rise from 32% last year. While only 5% will dine in a restaurant, down from 17% last year, the trend toward restaurant-prepared meals enjoyed at home underscores the growing appeal of meal convenience.

The average Thanksgiving dinner spend is projected at $170 per household, signaling a significant revenue opportunity for restaurants equipped to meet this demand.

Consumer Motivations: Convenience is King

Why are more consumers leaning on restaurants this holiday season?

·         75% believe it’s easier. Simplified meal prep resonates with busy households.

·         32% see it as cost-effective. Ready-2-Eat options often rival the cost of homemade meals.

·         23% are too tired to cook. For many, the holidays are about unwinding, not laboring in the kitchen.

·         22% prefer professional-quality meals. Expertise in cooking elevates the dining experience at home.

Popular Menu Picks

The traditional turkey remains the centerpiece for 87% of consumers, but versatility reigns with ham capturing 39% of main courses. Side dishes tell a story of timeless favorites:

·         Stuffing: 68%

·         Mashed Potatoes: 60%

·         Mac 'n Cheese and Sweet Potatoes: 42% each

·         Green Beans: 41%

·         Cranberry Sauce: 39%

Interestingly, 31% of consumers admit to opting for fast food during past Thanksgivings, demonstrating a willingness to embrace non-traditional options if they offer convenience and speed.

Actionable Insights for Restaurants

To thrive during the holidays, restaurants must think beyond the dining room. Here are three strategies to drive incremental sales this Thanksgiving and beyond:

1.       Optimize Meal Bundling for Families
Mix-and-match offerings that include customizable side dishes and desserts can appeal to diverse household tastes. Successful grocerant programs show that empowering customers to assemble their perfect meal drives loyalty and repeat business.

2.       Promote Early and Often
Restaurants that market holiday specials early can secure higher order volumes. Highlighting limited-time offers with visual cues like portion sizes and reviews ensures consumers feel confident in their purchase decisions.

3.       Leverage Multi-Channel Engagement
Use websites, reservation platforms, and social media to showcase menu options, availability, and ease of ordering. A seamless digital experience mirrors the convenience consumers seek in Ready-2-Eat holiday meals.

The Big Picture: Consumer Migration to Easy Solutions

As Brendan Sweeney, CEO of Popmenu, notes, “Ordering in or dining out for Thanksgiving is becoming a new tradition for consumers who just want to relax and enjoy a meal vs. serving as the family chef for the day.” Some restaurants have seen Thanksgiving pre-orders reach $50,000, proving the potential of holiday sales.

Looking ahead, December holds similar opportunities, with 28% planning to rely on restaurants for Christmas and 35% for New Year’s Eve. Restaurants that refine their holiday strategies now are poised to reap rewards across the season.

By aligning with evolving consumer expectations for convenience, cost, and quality, restaurants can transform the holidays into a platform for long-term growth. As the Grocerant Guru®, I remind you: Holiday success isn’t just about the food—it’s about creating a seamless, stress-free experience for your guests.

Invite Foodservice Solutions® to complete a Grocerant ScoreCard, or for product positioning or placement assistance, or call our Grocerant Guru®.  Since 1991 Foodservice Solutions® of Tacoma, WA has been the global leader in the Grocerant niche. Contact: Steve@FoodserviceSolutions.us or 253-759-7869

Global Grocerant Growth: Joel’s Place Embodies the Future of Dining and Retail

 

Around the globe, the grocerant concept is rapidly reshaping how consumers shop, dine, and experience food. Joel’s Place, the newest hybrid grocery and restaurant concept in Makati’s Rockwell district, stands as a shining example of this trend. Built by the Tantoco family, known for iconic brands like Rustan’s and Shopwise, Joel’s Place is more than just a grocery store or a restaurant—it’s a lifestyle destination according to Steven Johnson Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions®

Grocerants: A Worldwide Phenomenon

Joel’s Place mirrors what we’ve seen in major global cities: a seamless blend of retail, dining, and entertainment. From Eataly in New York to Selfridges’ Food Hall in London, grocerants are redefining convenience and experience. These spaces cater to today’s multi-tasking consumer, combining high-quality meals with curated shopping in an environment that feels both luxurious and approachable.

The Tantocos infused their vision into Joel’s Place after extensive research, visiting renowned European destinations like Le Bon Marché in Paris and Harrods in London. The result? A concept that’s fresh, healthy, and local while also catering to the global palate—something consumers increasingly demand.

Why Consumers Are Choosing Grocerants Globally

1.       Time-Saving Convenience:
With work-life balance becoming increasingly elusive, grocerants offer a one-stop solution. Customers can grab a gourmet meal, shop for essentials, and enjoy an immersive environment all in one visit. Joel’s Place exemplifies this with offerings like house-made juices, scratch-baked goods, and quick, high-quality meals.

2.       Experiential Dining-Tainment:
Modern consumers crave experiences, not just transactions. Joel’s Place delivers “dining-tainment,” a fusion of dining and entertainment where food becomes the centerpiece of a sensory experience. From artisanal local products like Malagos chocolates to their orange-turmeric power shots, it’s about discovery and indulgence.

3.       Health and Sustainability:
Grocerants like Joel’s Place cater to wellness-minded customers with fresh, locally sourced, and health-focused options. Globally, concepts like Whole Foods Market’s hot bars and Sobeys’ "Farm Boy" grocerant locations in Canada show this trend scaling across borders.

4.       Customization and Mix-and-Match Meals:
The flexibility to build your own meal resonates worldwide. Joel’s Place’s mix of risotto, US prime rib, and lechon belly echoes the grocerant model’s success in Asia and beyond, where options like Japan’s Seijo Ishii elevate bento boxes to an art form.

Global Insights Drive Local Success

The pandemic delayed the debut of Joel’s Place, but it also strengthened its purpose: to offer high-quality, fast meals and essential groceries under one roof. This echoes the resilience of other grocerants globally, which have flourished post-pandemic by capitalizing on consumers' evolving preferences for safety, convenience, and quality.

As more brands adopt the grocerant model, Joel’s Place demonstrates how to blend authenticity with innovation. Its connection to family values, exemplified in its namesake tribute to Joel Tantoco, and its locally sourced offerings make it a true community hub—a place to eat, shop, and savor.

Food Industry Examples of Grocerant Success

1.       Eataly (Global): Combines Italian grocery products with restaurants for an immersive cultural experience.

2.       H-E-B’s Central Market (USA): Known for its live cooking stations and gourmet food options.

3.       Fairprice Finest (Singapore): Offers international dining experiences alongside premium groceries.

Joel’s Place isn’t just a store; it’s part of a growing movement where grocerants shape the future of how we eat and shop. By meeting global demands for convenience, health, and experiential dining, Joel’s Place cements its place in the evolution of retail.

The grocerant revolution is here, and it’s deliciously unstoppable.

Don’t over reach. Are you ready for some fresh ideations? Do your food marketing ideations look more like yesterday than tomorrow? Interested in learning how Foodservice Solutions® can edify your retail food brand while creating a platform for consumer convenient meal participation, differentiation and individualization?  Email us at: Steve@FoodserviceSolutions.us or visit us on our social media sites by clicking the following links: Facebook,  LinkedIn, or Twitter

What Food Delivery Best Complements Decorating the Tree or the Outside of the House

 

Decorating for the holidays is a cherished tradition for many families, whether it’s hanging ornaments on the tree or stringing lights outside. For a fun, flavorful, and hassle-free experience, food delivery plays a key role in fueling the festivities.

Foodservice Solutions® recent Grocerant ScoreCards revealed an evolving shift in consumer behavior at the crossroads of technology, retail food sales, and consumer preferences. This intersection continues to drive the growth of the grocerant niche, reshaping food distribution channels and dining habits according to Steven Johnson Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions®

Here's how different age groups—from 20 to 30-year-olds, 30 to 55-year-olds, and 55+—can enjoy tailored meal options. Each demographic has distinct preferences, so mix-and-match bundles featuring complementary beverages, global flavors, and classic comfort foods will keep everyone happy.

 

For Ages 20–30: Flavor Explorers with Social Energy

This group often seeks bold, exciting flavors that align with their on-the-go lifestyle and social media habits. They are more likely to share their meal moments online while decorating the tree with friends or roommates.

Recommended Bundles:

1.       Chinese: Kung Pao Chicken with Vegetable Spring Rolls paired with Milk Tea or Bubble Tea for a trendy touch.

2.       Indian: Spicy Chicken Tikka Wraps and Samosas paired with Mango Lassi or craft ginger beer.

3.       Pizza: Spicy Italian Sausage Pizza with Jalapeño Poppers and a seasonal craft cider.

Key Flavor Profiles:

Spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet combinations dominate for this adventurous group. They enjoy experimenting with fusion dishes and exotic beverages.

Food Industry Insight:

According to recent surveys, 67% of younger adults prefer international cuisines for delivery. Their love for customizable, mix-and-match options means they are drawn to build-your-own bundles featuring global favorites.

 

For Ages 30–55: Family-Focused & Flavor Balancers

This group juggles family responsibilities and holiday traditions, so convenience and crowd-pleasing meals take center stage. They prefer balanced flavors that cater to both adults and children.

Recommended Bundles:

1.       Chinese: Honey Garlic Chicken, Fried Rice, and Pork Dumplings with sparkling lemonade for kids and jasmine tea for adults.

2.       Italian: Margherita Pizza, Pasta Bolognese, and Caesar Salad paired with Prosecco or an alcohol-free sparkling option.

3.       BBQ: Pulled Pork Sliders, BBQ Chicken Wings, and Cornbread with house-made lemonade or light craft beer.

Key Flavor Profiles:

Savory, mildly sweet, and tangy dishes dominate. This group appreciates foods that are both comforting and family-friendly, with a mix of fresh and indulgent elements.

Food Industry Insight:

Data shows that 54% of families prefer delivery that offers options for both adults and children. Family meal bundles with tiered portion sizes and complementary sides are top performers in this demographic.

 

For Ages 55+: Nostalgia Meets Comfort

Older adults often enjoy meals that are hearty, easy to eat, and paired with beverages that evoke nostalgia or complement their health-conscious preferences. While decorating, they gravitate toward comfort foods and familiar flavors.

Recommended Bundles:

1.       Chinese: Sweet and Sour Chicken, Egg Drop Soup, and Steamed Dumplings with jasmine tea or decaf green tea.

2.       Italian: Eggplant Parmesan, Garlic Bread, and Minestrone Soup paired with Chianti or a spiced herbal tea.

3.       BBQ: Smoked Brisket, Collard Greens, and Mac & Cheese with sweet iced tea or mulled cider.

Key Flavor Profiles:

Mildly savory, subtly sweet, and smoky flavors dominate. Meals that evoke warm, nostalgic feelings or traditional holiday experiences are favorites.

Food Industry Insight:

The 55+ demographic values quality and consistency over novelty. Meal delivery services that emphasize seasonal specials and holiday-themed comfort foods see higher engagement with this group.

 

How Mix-and-Match Bundling Wins the Holiday Season

Mix-and-match meal bundling is a strategic way to appeal to multigenerational families and friend groups, allowing for personalization without overwhelming choices. By including complementary beverages, delivery services can boost average check sizes by up to 25%, according to industry data.

·         For Younger Consumers: Offer global flavor bundles with trendy drinks like kombucha or nitro coffee.

·         For Families: Create balanced options that include kid-friendly sides and shareable platters.

·         For Older Adults: Focus on simplified bundles that highlight traditional holiday flavors and easy-to-digest options.

 

Think About This

Decorating for the holidays is more enjoyable with delicious food delivery that caters to every age group's preference. Whether it’s the bold flavors loved by 20-somethings, the balanced meals preferred by families, or the nostalgic comfort sought by older adults, mix-and-match bundles can make everyone feel at home. Adding thoughtful beverage pairings elevates the experience, ensuring every bite and sip enhances the joy of holiday decorating.

Make your holiday tradition even brighter by pairing your tree-trimming or light-hanging activities with the perfect meal bundle this season!

Success does leave clues. One clue that time and time again continues to resurface is “the consumer is dynamic not static”.  Regular readers of this blog know that is the common refrain of Steven Johnson, Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions®.  Our Grocerant Guru® can help your company edify your brand with relevance.  Call 253-759-7869 for more information. 

How Olive Garden Eases Holiday Meal Problems When You Have Company

 

Holidays often bring joy—and a hefty dose of stress—especially when hosting family or friends. From juggling meal prep to satisfying varied taste preferences, the kitchen can quickly transform from a cozy haven into a battleground.

According to Steven Johnson Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions®, Olive Garden, known for its Italian-American comfort food, has become a go-to solution for families seeking to ease the strain of holiday meals. With a wide array of mix-and-match meal options, they provide practical answers for game days, work night dinners, or even the day after holiday gatherings when leftovers lose their charm.

Here’s how Olive Garden helps ease the stress and strain of cooking, making the holidays more enjoyable for you and your guests. Let’s see what we can learn that might help your restaurants drive top-line sales and bottom-line profits.

 

1. A Wide Variety of Ready-to-Serve Options

Olive Garden excels at providing ready-to-eat or ready-to-heat meal solutions, perfect for hosting. Their catering menu includes:

·         Pasta Bar Options: Choose from fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne paired with Alfredo, marinara, or meat sauces, allowing guests to customize their plates.

·         Family-Style Bundles: These packages serve 4-6 people and feature entrees like Chicken Parmigiana or Lasagna Classico, paired with salad and breadsticks.

·         Snackable Appetizers: Options like toasted ravioli and fried mozzarella ensure there’s something to keep the crowd happy while waiting for the main meal.

Fact: In a 2023 National Restaurant Association survey, 73% of consumers preferred customizable meal options when ordering for groups. Olive Garden’s variety allows you to cater to picky eaters and dietary restrictions without additional hassle.

 

2. Proactive Holiday Planning Solutions

When the holiday rush threatens to overwhelm, Olive Garden’s flexible ordering system makes it easy to plan ahead:

·         Advance Ordering: Large catering orders can be placed up to three weeks in advance, ensuring you’re prepared for every gathering, from casual game-day parties to formal dinners.

·         Curbside Pickup and Delivery: Skip the long wait times and have your order brought straight to your car or delivered to your doorstep.

·         Mix-and-Match Convenience: Pair rich entrees like Five Cheese Ziti with lighter options like salad or soup to balance indulgence and nutrition.

Fact: A 2022 report from Datassential found that 58% of consumers find meal prep “overwhelming” during the holiday season. Olive Garden’s streamlined services alleviate this burden.

 

3. Versatile Day-After Solutions

The day after the holiday often leaves hosts scrambling for creative meals to feed lingering guests or family. Olive Garden offers practical solutions:

·         Heat-and-Eat Leftovers: Items like their Giant Stuffed Shells or Eggplant Parmigiana reheat beautifully for quick, satisfying meals.

·         Meal Component Bundling: Pick up a quart of their famous Zuppa Toscana or Alfredo Sauce and pair it with your own proteins for a semi-homemade approach.

·         Holiday Desserts: Don’t overlook their indulgent desserts like Tiramisu or Black Tie Mousse Cake, which double as sweet treats for brunch or dinner the next day.

Fact: According to the International Food Information Council (IFIC), 44% of Americans rely on pre-prepared foods during busy holiday periods to save time and energy.

 

Think About This

Whether you’re tackling a Thanksgiving dinner, hosting a New Year’s Eve celebration, or simply dealing with the chaos of the holiday season, Olive Garden makes entertaining simpler. Their customizable catering options, user-friendly ordering systems, and versatile meal solutions offer a practical way to minimize stress while keeping your guests satisfied. This holiday season, let Olive Garden handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on what truly matters: spending time with the people you love.

Don’t over reach. Are you ready for some fresh ideations? Do your food marketing ideations look more like yesterday than tomorrow? Interested in learning how Foodservice Solutions® can edify your retail food brand while creating a platform for consumer convenient meal participation, differentiation and individualization?  Email us at: Steve@FoodserviceSolutions.us or visit us on our social media sites by clicking the following links: Facebook,  LinkedIn, or Twitter