ROSEMONT, IL - As we all know, there have been some significant shifts in the foodservice industry in recent years. It seems consumer demands continue to drive evolution in this space, as evidenced by US Foods' recent 2024 Diner Dispatch survey. The results showcased key takeaways that can help operators make informed business decisions to help meet or exceed diner expectations.

“As a leader in foodservice and a proud partner of our customers, we are excited to share the diner trends currently shaping the restaurant industry,” said Diane Hund, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer. “Now in its second year, our 2024 Diner Dispatch provides deeper insights into the preferences shaping how diners approach their dining experience. It allows us to delve into how diner preferences have shifted since last year and, in turn, deliver our promise to help our operators Make It.”

The in-restaurant customer experience continues to play a key role in driving profitability and customer loyalty, a press release noted. Despite lingering impacts of inflation on diner behaviors, results showcase an increased preference for dining out at a restaurant.

Survey highlights include:

• Dining-out triumphs takeout with atmosphere and socializing driving this preference
• Monthly spends have increased
• Gender spends have flip-flopped
• Casual dining is king and on the rise
• Patience is prevailing
• QR code menus fall even more out of favor across all generations

Helping operators find the right solutions to navigate a variety of industry opportunities is at the heart of the recently launched US Foods MORE platform. The platform is designed to provide operators with expert support including a solution to navigate the downward impact of inflation, while providing opportunities to capitalize on the dining experience.

The MORE platform support includes:

• MORE QUALITY products that consistently deliver outstanding flavor and performance while minimizing waste and labor
• MORE SUPPORT from a dedicated team of US Foods experts who can help an operator enhance their overall customer experience with staff training tools to reduce wait times and dining room layout suggestions for enhancing social interactions while dining
• MORE TOOLS like US Foods Menu, a program that enables operators to easily update printed menus and enable QR code linking
• MORE DELIVERIES to enable more flexibility, frequency, and responsiveness so the operator has the products they need when they need it

Check out the press release here to read more about the results.

ANUK will continue to keep you up to date on the latest industry events.