Two-thirds of consumers (63%) in the UK are nervous about the idea of eating out, despite the easing of restrictions imposed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a new study by the IGD has revealed.
The Shoppers of Our Time study is an IGD ShopperVista project that will explore the changing attitudes towards eating out and shopping post-lockdown.
It will follow the journey of 30 British households over the next two years and publish at least 20 reports around shopping basics, out-of-home consumption, social consciousness and lifestyle changes.
Areas Of Concern
Health and safety aspects of eating out emerged as the biggest concern among diners, with 81% of the respondents saying that they will need to be confident about hygiene measures in restaurants before considering this option.
Among those nervous about eating out, 71% said they would wait a few weeks before going to a restaurant, the study noted.
Director of global insights at IGD, Simon Wainwright, said, “With consumers hesitant about going out to eat, foodservice providers will need to demonstrate the safety measures they are taking while providing a relaxing and enjoyable environment.
“Maintaining this balance is going to be exceptionally difficult for some operators with physical space constraints.”
Saving Money
Nearly half of those surveyed (49%) stated saving money as the biggest reason for not eating out, with 62% in the age group between 18-34-years citing it as a primary reason.
Around 46% of shoppers said that they would prepare more meals at home for friends and family instead of going out.
Wainwright added, “As well as trying to incentivise consumers out of home, there is also an opportunity for food service providers to offer compelling in-home options at a good price in the meantime, as well as takeaway or delivery services longer term.
"With the Government’s Eat Out to Help Out scheme starting this week, we should start to see some bounce back among those who cite cost as a barrier for eating out.”
Other Concerns
The study also found that 81% of shoppers were concerned about a second wave of infections and considering other shopping options.
In the event of a second spike, 58% of the respondents said that they would try and shop online more frequently, with 36% saying that they will stock up on certain items.
In terms of upcoming seasonal events, 56% of the respondents said that they are less likely to go to a public event for bonfire night, while 42% stated that they are likely to refrain from trick-or-treating for Halloween.
© 2020 European Supermarket Magazine – your source for the latest retail news. Article by Dayeeta Das. Click subscribe to sign up to ESM: The European Supermarket Magazine.
