The Millennial generation is growing up: they have jobs, are getting married, have money and are starting families. Millennials disrupted the food industry when they were young, so how will they affect the industry as parents? An estimated 80% of millennials will have kids by 2026. So what can you do to capture that business? We are glad you asked! Here are our tips to bring millennial parents to your restaurant.
Create a Welcoming Atmosphere
According to Technomic’s 2016 Future of LSR consumer Trend Report & Consumer Brand Metrics, the top chains that have the ‘nail on the head,’ are: Chick-fil-A, Cracker Barrel, Red Robin and Culvers. These brands were consistently ranked in the top when it came to ‘kid appeal.’
Why is this important and why should it matter to you?
All the restaurants above pride themselves on certain values that have resulted in these qualities:
- Friendly service.
- Accurate ordering.
- Quality food.
- Kid-friendliness.
Technology and Convenience Meet
Millennial parents are looking to save as much time as possible. This is where efficient and user-friendly websites, mobile ordering and takeout options shine through. Take Starbucks for example, anyone can download their app, make an order, pay for it and pick it up at a store the user chooses. All without having to stop, wait or talk to anyone. Where can your business improve when it comes to convenience?
Appeal to Both Parents & Children
True, parents will make the decision on where to eat, most of the time. But how about the times when parents let their children pick a restaurant? According to the Generational Report, some 43% of parents allow their kids to choose which restaurants to visit. As an owner/operator, how can you combat this?
Offer natural, kid-friendly food.
According to Technomic’s MenuMonitor, just 22% of U.S. casual-dining restaurants offer a kids menu, 25% among find-dining and 27% for quick service spots. Family restaurants lead the charge in this group because 49% of these establishments offer a kids menu.
How are you going to improve your restaurant to bring in more millennial families? This generation is growing up fast and they will soon be the dominant group in the economy. Position yourself better than the competition.
Need to pass the time between our next post? Then check out Custom Business Solutions for all your restaurant technology needs!
