Be Nimble, Be Quick: What Consumers Want in 2021

The old nursery rhyme, “Jack be nimble, Jack be quick” could sum up the actions of successful restaurant operators in 2020. And, based on our recent survey of 830 US consumers, it’s likely a good mantra for 2021.

Our team at Revenue Management Solutions has been carefully tracking consumer attitudes and behavior shifts since the start of the pandemic (April 2020) with qualitative and quantitative surveys across the US and from our international offices. 

A snapshot of the most recent survey results follows, with insights to guide 2021 planning. The throughline of our recommendations? “Nimble” and “quick.”  

Insight #1: 30 percent of respondents reported using drive-thru and takeout more or much more than pre-pandemic, and 25 percent increased their use of delivery.Respondents reported forming new habits as a result of the pandemic, primarily turning to contactless, delivery, and takeout options in the wake of stay-at-home orders. Much has already been written about…