"Retailers benefit from the fact that consumers are already [image-nocss] visiting them for other purchases," said Darren Tristano, executive vice president of Technomic. "If retailers can offer a foodservice option that rivals that of restaurants in terms of quality, freshness and variety, they can build on the advantage they inherently enjoy when it comes to convenience."
The survey was part of Technomic's new "Retailer Meal Solutions Consumer Trend Report."
Additional findings include:
Health is an important factor in the retailer meal solutions (RMS) purchasing decision, and seems to be of greater importance for RMS occasions than for restaurant meals. About two in five consumers said that they usually consider nutrition when purchasing prepared foods, compared to only about a quarter who say they consider nutrition when ordering food at restaurants.
Kid appeal stands out as the primary concept attribute that consumers think RMS programs are lacking. The attribute related to RMS' appeal to children ranked among the bottom three for each type of retailer as compared to both limited- and full-service restaurants.
About 40% of consumers who visit mass merchandisers and c-stores for RMS purchases do so at least once a week from those locations.
Technomic's report provides a comprehensive guide to the trends that shape the RMS market and how they are leveraged across varying dayparts, food categories and retail segments. An online survey of 1,500 consumers revealed consumer RMS usage and sourcing and uncovered the attitudes and preferences that impact the RMS purchasing decision. The report revealed how RMS competes with restaurants through consumer comparisons between limited-service and full-service restaurants and RMS on 25 attributes and amenities, and includes detailed profiles of 20 retailer concepts, as well as retail foodservice sales growth data.
Chicago-based Technomic provides clients with the facts, insights and consulting support they need to enhance their business strategies, decisions and results. Its services include numerous publications and digital products, as well as proprietary studies and ongoing research on all aspects of the food industry.
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