Technomic projects growth for all segments of the restaurant industry next year, with most growth in the two or three percent range. But one restaurant segment is projected to outpace the others by leaps and bounds at 7.5%…
Today, we’re going to examine some of the reasons fast casual restaurants are beating out the other segments, and learn the tactics you can use in your own strategy—no matter your restaurant type.
First, it’s important that we get clear on exactly what “fast casual” entails. Restaurants that fall into this segment include Panera, Freshii, Caliburger, and many more. Fast casual restaurants offer a quick dining solution with a more upscale atmosphere.
Generally, fast casual restaurants offer healthy options, well-designed interiors, affordable quality, and flavor diversity. Beyond these elements, one of the keys that sets this segment apart is its focus on providing solutions for the time-pressed customer.
The fast casual customer is tech savvy and busy. He or she demands convenience and wants to be in control. Fast casual restaurants have developed a wide range of innovations to give more control to their customers, from facial recognition loyalty programs to self-service kiosks.
This focus on quality, atmosphere, and, most importantly, guest convenience has led to more and more fast casual restaurants opening up across the country, and already established brands rapidly adding locations.
Luckily, even if your restaurant doesn’t fall into the fast casual segment, there are still important lessons to learn from them and innovations to put in place that can dial up your convenience for customers and give them more control and more satisfaction.
Here are four things you can begin to implement now:
The old saying is “if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em” but perhaps it’s more appropriate to say, “if you can’t BE ‘em, join ‘em.” You don’t need to be a fast casual restaurant to capitalize on the techniques fast casual restaurants are utilizing and the success that they’re enjoying.
Focus on putting the control in the hands of your customers by enhancing your technology, and it makes it just that much easier for your customers to choose to dine with you again and again. Learn more about the fast casual segment in our latest on demand webinar, “If You Can’t Beat ‘Em, Join ‘Em by Putting the Guest in Control.”