Wednesday, May 22, 2024

Cooking at Home is Becoming a Threat to Restaurants



There is no doubt it cost a lot to go out to eat at fast food restaurant, fast casual restaurants and full-service sit-down restaurants.  That’s a problem for the restaurant industry according to Steven Johnson Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions®.

Some new research insights on how the culinary interests of younger generations are shaping the food industry, particularly in the realm of hand-held foods. The latest Y-Pulse Youth Lifestyle Monitor report reveals that more than half of 8- to 18-year-olds relish the opportunity to prepare meals for their families, a testament to their growing culinary confidence. Think about that?   Is the restaurant sector losing the next generation of restaurant dinners?

Hand-held foods, with their convenience and variety, are playing a pivotal role in engaging Gen Z customers. These foods cater to their desire for creativity, personalization, and exploration of diverse flavors. They're not just consumers; they're becoming discerning diners, self-assured cooks, and even influencers in today's food culture. 

The report highlights the significant influences shaping these young food enthusiasts' perspectives, including food media, chefs, food and nutrition professionals, and parents. It's fascinating to see how today's food-savvy millennial moms are inspiring a new generation of kids who are confident in cooking and critiquing food. 


Cooking is increasingly seen as a form of creative expression moms enjoy cooking and being creative with ingredients in the kitchen. They welcome recipes but prefer those that allow them to put their own spin on dishes. This creativity extends to their children, with more than half reporting that they enjoy cooking for their family. 

Entertainment is also a powerful educational tool. More than half of K-12 kids watch the Food Network and "Tasty" style videos for entertainment. They're not just passive viewers; they're actively trying to recreate the meals they see on these platforms. Social media platforms are brimming with cooking shows hosted kids, focusing on simple and fun recipes that children can easily follow and recreate at home. 


Young consumers are also engaging in culinary criticism as a form of conversation. They're exploring flavors, reviewing food venues, and sharing their experiences and opinions on social media platforms. This trend is particularly pronounced among 15- to 18-year-olds, with 62% reporting posting about their restaurant experiences. 

Successful food industry professionals understand the importance of engaging these discerning young tastemakers. From school nutrition to senior dining, they're creating events designed to encourage families and grandchildren to visit and share experiences. Hand-held foods, with their inherent appeal to younger generations, are likely to play a significant role in these initiatives. 

Just think about, the rise of culinary interest among younger generations, coupled with the popularity of hand-held foods, is driving customer engagement in exciting new ways. As the Grocerant Guru®, I look forward to seeing how these trends continue to evolve and shape the future of the food industry and if they will continue to drive customer migration from sector to sector


For international corporate presentations, regional chain presentations, educational forums, or keynotes contact: Steven Johnson Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions.  His extensive experience as a multi-unit restaurant operator, consultant, brand / product positioning expert, and public speaking will leave success clues for all. For more information visit GrocerantGuru.com, FoodserviceSolutions.US or call 1-253-759-7869

For international corporate presentations, regional chain presentations, educational forums, or keynotes contact: Steven Johnson Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions.  His extensive experience as a multi-unit restaurant operator, consultant, brand / product positioning expert, and public speaking will leave success clues for all. For more information visit GrocerantGuru.com, FoodserviceSolutions.US or call 1-253-759-7869



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