Technomic Highlights Foodservice Drivers for Millennials

CHICAGO -- Technomic shines a light on what Millennials are looking for when choosing dining-out options and it should be no surprise their lists of wants and needs reflect today's focus on healthy living and the environment.

This group, which is sometimes called Generation Y and falls within the 19 to 34 age group, places more value on attributes like social responsibility, sustainability, local, and organic, grass-fed, and hormone-free offerings. Additionally, they foster emotional connections to brands and their loyalty stems beyond experience, according to Technomic.

"Millennials visit restaurants more frequently than any other generation," said Darren Tristano, Technomic EVP. "Restaurant operators are making consistent efforts to track the purchasing habits of Millennials and appeal to their unique need states. Success with today's Millennial consumer will depend on making an emotional connection and setting expectations."

According to the Technomic Consumer Restaurant Brand Metrics, Millennial consumers rank In-N-Out Burger, McAlister's Deli, Cracker Barrel Old Country Store and Logan's Roadhouse at the top of their segments when it comes to social responsibility. For food quality, the group takes note of Jimmy John's Gourmet Sandwich Shop, McAlister's Deli, Cracker Barrel Old Country Store and Red Lobster in their segments.

In addition, Chik-fil-A, Corner Bakery Café, Bob Evans and Bonefish Grill are cited for their support of local community activities, according to Technomic.

Technomic is helping restaurants and foodservice suppliers understand and respond to Millennials' dining preferences with two new offerings. A new in-depth study for suppliers, "Understanding the Foodservice Attitudes and Behaviors of Millennials," provides consumer and operator insights across restaurant and non-commercial accounts, in addition to operators' best practices and unmet needs. Suppliers who join the study prior to launch also receive operator and consumer feedback on their top three product categories.