New Technomic Studies Explore Shifts In Catering, Off-Premise Dining, And Self-Service Operations

Three new studies from research and analytics company Technomic shed light on how Covid-19 has changed the landscape for restaurant operators in areas such as off-premise dining and self-serve formats.

The first report is “Navigating the New Off-Premise World Multi Client Study” and reveals insights into the impact and opportunities for operators in both the current and future off-premise landscape. 

The second report called “Opportunities for Growth in the Off-Premise Catering Market Multi Client Study” provides a comprehensive look into catering, including consumer usage, third-party delivery, and segment sizing.

"With restaurants facing increased obstacles and changes amid the Covid-19 pandemic, we knew it was vital that we uncover strategic insights into how off-premise and catering channels have been impacted," said Melissa Wilson, principal at Technomic. 

The final report is the “Self-Service Outlook Multi Client Study” and it examines operator risks with self-service operations, shifts in consumer attitudes and behaviors, and short- and long-term reopening regulations by state.

"With an increased focus on foodservice safety measures, we launched a study to better understand the vulnerability facing self-service operations," said David Henkes, senior principal at Technomic. "Study results will assist partners in proactively and tactically planning for the future by identifying self-service risks as well as shifting consumer and operator attitudes."

Key findings from the studies include:

• 41% of operators surveyed added curbside pickup in response to Covid-19
• 51% of operators who offer delivery report an increase in the percentage of catering orders delivered by third-party services
• 70% of consumers surveyed agreed that self-service areas require more frequent cleaning than employee-operated areas