More than half of Kiwis continue to dine out

PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

More than half of Kiwis continue to dine out despite tough times

Quality over price, survey reveals

Auckland, 1 August 2012 – According to the latest nationwide American Express Dining survey*, 56 per cent of New Zealanders still dine out at least once a month despite the challenging economic conditions.

“Dining out is part of our social fabric – it’s a good way to bring people together, celebrate and reward ourselves,” says Marisa Bidois, Chief Executive, Restaurant Association of New Zealand.

The third annual dining survey shows that ninety-three per cent of people still enjoy dining out but frequency has declined.

More than half of New Zealanders dine out at least once a month, but the number of people dining out once a week has dropped by 10 per cent compared to April 2011.

While 55 per cent of Kiwis say they haven’t changed their dining habits, the remainder have employed a number of strategies to ensure they can still dine out.

Thirty per cent are eating out less frequently and a further 12 per cent are eating at less expensive places. Price continues to be important for some diners but quality food came out as the key factor when eating out.

“Some diners are ‘shifting down’ to a different type of restaurant. Essentially people are choosing restaurants and dining venues that are right for their current situation but still with an emphasis on quality food,” says Ms Bidois.

“We’ve seen around 30 per cent of survey respondents taking advantage of special offers, deals from daily internet sites and entertainment books.”

When making decisions about where to eat, Kiwis take various factors into consideration, including:

· Quality food (50 per cent say quality food is very important);

· Affordable menu (45 per cent);

· Excellent service (39 per cent);

· Good atmosphere(32 per cent); and

· Convenient location (25 per cent).

Serving quality food that diners enjoy eating and providing great customer service is of the utmost importance, says Ms Bidois.

“Restaurant operators need to continue to be creative, nimble and respond to the market for them to entice customers and maintain good health despite challenging market conditions.”

The industry continues to remain optimistic and with Auckland Restaurant Month in August a number of operators will be looking forward to being on show, says Ms Bidois.

“We hope people support Auckland Restaurant Month and enjoy the fresh produce, delicious food and wine and great service that the industry has to offer.”

“During August, the New Zealand Culinary Fare will also open its doors to the public on Tuesday 21st. The three day competition with more than 60 categories and 1,000 competitors pits the industry’s best against each other.

“The industry also celebrates with Feast By Famous Chefs featuring the cuisine of some of Auckland’s top chefs including Ben Bayly of the Grove, Geoff Scott of Vinnies and Volker Marecek of the Langham, among others.”

Regional Highlights

· Aucklanders and Wellingtonians are most likely to eat out, at least once a week

· Wellingtonians are most likely to use daily deal sites and discount promotions

· Forty-six per cent of respondents from the central North Island** said not surcharging on public holidays was a very important issue. The national average is 23 per cent.

ENDS

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