CHICAGO — Consumers may not have the means to travel the world, but that hasn't dampened their desire to experience new ethnic cuisines. Unfortunately, chain restaurants aren't meeting current consumer demand for new foods and flavors. Only a quarter of consumers polled for a recent Technomic survey say they are satisfied with the availability of ethnic offerings at limited-service (23 percent) and full-service (28 percent) chains, which translates into opportunities for operators to differentiate their menus and gain market share with globally-inspired offerings.
"Authenticity is crucial to the ethnic food and beverage purchasing decision," says Executive Vice President Darren Tristano. "Sixty-five percent of consumers say food that tastes authentic is one of the most important factors in deciding which establishment to visit for ethnic foods and beverages. Operators have an opportunity to create innovative and globally inspired menu items reflected through preparation, taste and flavor. Consumers also say that dishes prepared by someone from that region are given greater credibility as authentic."
To help operators and others aligned with the foodservice industry more effectively understand consumer behavior, definitions, preferences and attitudes towards ethnic flavors and cuisines, Technomic developed the Ethnic Food & Beverage Consumer Trend Report.
Interesting findings include:
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