Americans Prefer Delivery, Takeout to Eating at a Restaurant

August 30, 2023

Americans Prefer Delivery, Takeout to Eating at a Restaurant

Americans' preference for food delivery and takeout over dining at restaurants is here to stay, according to a recent study conducted by US Foods. The study, titled "The Diner Dispatch: 2023 American Dining Habits," surveyed more than 1,000 Americans to understand their dining preferences, favorite restaurant types, and ordering habits.

 

The appeal of dining in

Convenience remains a top priority for restaurant customers, with the post-pandemic era solidifying their commitment to delivery and takeout habits. On average, customers order delivery or takeout 4.5 times a month, compared to eating at a restaurant an average of three times a month. Notably, 74% of respondents dine out because they don't feel like cooking, while 51% find it more convenient, and 44% do it for the socialization aspect.

One of the major advantages of takeout and delivery is the opportunity to savor restaurant-quality food in the comfort of one's own home. Over half of the participants (57%) stated a preference for ordering takeout or delivery over dining at the restaurant itself. Moreover, more than half (54%) of the respondents were willing to wait for 30 minutes or more to receive their carryout or delivery orders.

 

Global flavors and palate exploration

For those who do choose to dine at a restaurant, the atmosphere and social experience play crucial roles. The survey found that 63% of diners prefer dining in for the ambiance, while 48% do it to socialize with friends. Forty-seven percent appreciate the superior food quality offered at restaurants, and 41% view dining out as a delightful way to celebrate special occasions.

Stacey Kinkaid, the vice president of product development and innovation at US Foods, highlighted how consumers seek exceptional dining experiences and new flavor sensations that add excitement to their palates and break the monotony of daily routines. The trend of global flavors showcases this desire for discovery and escapism.

The survey also uncovered interesting insights into ordering preferences. While 76% of respondents still prefer physical menus, younger customers tend to lean more towards QR codes. Thirty-one percent of Gen Z customers favor QR codes, compared to 14% of Baby Boomers. Millennials and Gen Xers fall in between, with 27% and 22%, respectively, expressing a preference for QR codes.

 

Capitalizing on the demand for delivery and takeout

For pizzerias and restaurants, this study highlights the need to capitalize on the continued demand for delivery and takeout services. With convenience being a key factor in dining choices, offering efficient and reliable delivery and takeout options can attract more customers and boost revenue.

Also, embracing global flavors and providing unique dining experiences can enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty. Understanding generational preferences, such as the popularity of QR codes among younger diners, can also help tailor the dining experience to different age groups. By staying attuned to these trends and preferences, pizzerias can position themselves for success in an evolving and competitive market.

 

Boosting the bottom line: the benefits of high-quality pizza delivery bags for pizzerias

As the demand for delivery rises, it’s essential for pizzerias to ensure their delivery services meet customer expectations. One key element that can significantly impact the success of pizza delivery is investing in high-quality pizza delivery bags. These specialized bags offer numerous benefits to pizzerias, ultimately helping them improve their bottom line and stay ahead in the competitive food industry.

 

Preserving food quality: fresher and hotter pizzas

High-quality pizza delivery bags are designed to maintain the ideal temperature and humidity levels, ensuring that pizzas arrive at customers' doorsteps as fresh and hot as they would be served in the restaurant. Nothing delights customers more than receiving a piping hot pizza with fresh, gooey cheese and crispy crusts. By delivering consistent quality, pizzerias can enhance customer satisfaction and encourage repeat orders, bolstering their revenue.

 

Reducing food waste and costs

Properly insulated pizza delivery bags prevent heat loss during transportation, minimizing the risk of pizzas becoming cold and unappetizing. As a result, customers are less likely to reject orders or request remakes due to cold pizza. This reduction in food waste translates to cost savings for pizzerias, as they can avoid the expense of remaking and disposing of discarded pizzas. Furthermore, improved food quality can lead to positive online reviews and word-of-mouth recommendations, attracting more customers and driving revenue growth.

 

Expanding delivery range

With high-quality delivery bags, pizzerias can confidently expand their delivery range. These bags ensure that pizzas remain fresh and delicious, even during longer journeys. As delivery boundaries extend, pizzerias can reach a wider customer base, tapping into new markets and potentially increasing their sales volume.

 

Enhancing brand perception

Customers value exceptional service, and the quality of pizza delivery is no exception. Investing in top-notch delivery bags showcases a pizzeria's commitment to providing the best experience possible. Satisfied customers are more likely to perceive the pizzeria as reliable and customer-focused, leading to higher brand loyalty and positive reviews. As a result, the pizzeria's reputation can attract more customers and boost overall profitability.

 

Capitalize on the demand for delivery with pizza delivery bags from Incredible Bags

For pizzerias looking to capitalize on the demand for delivery, optimizing their delivery operations is crucial. High-quality pizza delivery bags, such as those offered by Incredible Bags, can be instrumental in ensuring an excellent delivery experience for customers. These bags boast durable construction and superior insulation, which keeps pizzas fresh and hot during transit. Investing in top-notch delivery bags not only enhances customer satisfaction but also helps pizzeria owners save on expenses, ultimately contributing to a thriving business.