The rules are changing for restaurants. The COVID-19 pandemic has necessitated changes in how restaurants operate on virtually every level. Additionally, customers’ needs and preferences are changing. Consequently, many restaurants have been making changes to adapt to the changing landscape, and some are more common than others. Here is an overview of the top six restaurant trends of 2021:
6 Restaurant Trends in 2021 That Helped the Industry Adapt to Changes
1. Going Contactless
- Physical contact between people is one of the main drivers of the COVID-19 pandemic. Restaurants serve many strangers, hence, there have been directives to close restaurants and reduce their capacities.
Many restaurants are responding to this safety issue by adopting contactless solutions. For example, many restaurants are implementing contactless ordering solutions in the form of digital menus based on QR codes. Additionally, more restaurants are offering contactless payment options, minimizing physical contact through cash and credit cards.
Contactless solutions are increasing efficiency and are affordable to implement, according to San Francisco’s PizzaHacker founder Jeff Krupman. To this end, about 76% of restaurants plan to adopt contactless solutions by the end of 2021.
2. An Uptick in Direct Orders
More people are opting to order take-aways or home delivery services in light of the restrictions brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. Interestingly, 67% of customers prefer ordering directly from the restaurant, rather than using third-party apps. Restaurants are using this opportunity to take charge of their online ordering and delivery solutions.
Taking direct control of online ordering and delivery solutions enables restaurants to enhance end-to-end customer experience. It will also give restaurants direct access to their customers’ data as they learn and adapt more.
3. Kitchen Automation
Restaurants are struggling to find workers, and this is compromising their ability to deliver satisfactory services. Consequently, many restaurants are responding by automating their kitchens.
About 91% of restaurants plan to invest more in kitchen automation technology in 2021. For example, many restaurants are installing Kitchen Delivery Systems (KDS) to place and monitor orders based on real-time activity in the kitchen and on the restaurant floor. Many restaurants are also buying automatic fryers and other appliances designed to augment common and labor-intensive tasks.
4. Nurturing Customer Loyalty Via Enhanced Customer Experiences
The restaurant industry is very competitive, and restaurants are always coming up with creative ways to make their customers loyal by boosting customer engagement. To this end, about 90% are exploring new concepts of boosting customer engagement.
For example, 52% of restaurants plan to offer drive-through services. Interestingly, 48% of these restaurants are styling their drive-through centers after the 1950s classics in a bid to stand out. Additionally, about 41% of restaurants are offering special events such as online cooking classes and personalized dining experiences for major holidays.
5. Diversifying Revenue Streams
Restaurants are still reeling from the financial challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Many restaurants are responding by diversifying their revenue streams to boost their profits.
Different restaurants are adopting different solutions to diversify their revenue streams. For example, many are offering cooking classes and changing their menus to include new offerings. Fortunately, this has received a positive reception by customers – 59% of customers say they are very likely to buy new items that are not part of the core (traditional) offerings.
6. Refocusing on the Community
Restaurants are an integral part of the community as they facilitate interaction at social and business levels. More restaurants are refocusing on the community to create stronger ties to the community (and their customers). To this end, about 92% of restaurants plan to launch customer engagement events such as donating food to community organizations.
Conclusion
Restaurants should be versatile and flexible to adapt to changing circumstances and customers’ needs and preferences. Financial stability is essential for keeping up with these changes. Download our guide or get in touch today to keep up with restaurant financial trends and solutions.
