Members of Generation Z, the first true digital generation are on the move and value speed of service, technology and having what they want, when they want it. Millennials, more so than older generations, prefer to visit restaurants that offer new and unique foods and flavors. Gen X and Boomers converge on several preferences—such as the importance of a convenient location.

Technomic gleaned these and other insights from recent research on how different generations view and use foodservice.

“Each generational group may have distinctly different foodservice needs, yet there are opportunities to leverage their similarities and target specific customer groups without alienating others,” says Sara Monnette, the company’s senior director, consumer insights.

“Regardless of the generation, it’s vital for restaurant operators and suppliers to understand their core audience. So whether you’re working to appeal to your Boomer base through dine-in ambiance or traditional menu offerings, or drawing in younger guests with faster service and an innovative menu, successful execution can begin with identifying and addressing what each group values as a generation.”

Source: Technomic Inc., Generational Consumer Trend Report

This infographic provides specific examples of generational differences in foodservice preferences.

Other findings from Technomic’s updated Generational Consumer Trend Report include:

• Gen Zers and Millennials tend to be more optimistic about and reliant on foodservice. They are more likely than older generations to anticipate increases in foodservice visits in the next year.
• Dining-format preferences vary by generation: of all generations, Boomers are most likely to visit restaurants for dine-in, Gen Z are most likely to order takeout and Millennials are most likely to opt for delivery.
• Speedy service is key for the youngest generation: for example, Gen Z places the highest importance on fast service at limited-service restaurants (54 percent), compared to just two-fifths of Millennials (40 percent), Gen Xers (41 percent) and Baby Boomers (43 percent).