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In recent years, the restaurant industry has experienced a number of significant changes and challenges due to the pandemic and the growth of the digital channel. In a recent CGA by NielsenIQ (NIQ) report in Mexico, focused on measuring and understanding consumption in the On Premise channel (Restaurants, Bars and Coffee shops), reveals results about the habits and preferences of consumers in bars and restaurants.
According to the survey conducted in July, 7 out of 10 consumers have chosen to visit bars or restaurants to enjoy a meal with friends. In addition, more than half of the respondents (52%) went out to these establishments to drink alcoholic beverages. The survey also revealed that 3 out of 4 people plan to continue visiting restaurants and bars.
Visits grow driven by social gatherings
Out of the establishments considered for the report: restaurants, coffee shops, bars, late-night bars and cantinas. The results show that restaurants continue to be the most popular type of establishment, receiving 90% of the visits. However, we see that cafes have experienced an increase in visits compared to the last 3 months, being the fastest growing of all establishments.
Among the most frequent reasons for visiting these establishments, sharing with friends tops the list, representing 57% of visit occasions. The opportunity to wind down and celebrate follow as the main reasons for going out.
Consumers continue to demonstrate a high frequency of visits to establishments, with almost half of them visiting 3 or more times in the last month, and more than 80% visiting in the last 3 months. In addition, overall satisfaction with the On Premise experience remains high, with a remarkable 94% of respondents satisfied.
What do Mexicans prefer to drink at On Premise channel?
In terms of beverage preferences, beer maintains its position as the most popular category, being consumed by almost 7 out of 10 respondents during their visits. It is followed by tequila.
What do Mexicans consume in delivery or takeaway?
In the last month, we see that the trend of ordering take-out food has also taken hold, with 67% of respondents ordering take-out food, and 25% opting to order alcoholic beverages.
Among those who have ordered alcohol to go, 83% have done so on more than two occasions in the last month.
In terms of on-the-go alcoholic beverage preferences, beer continues to lead the category, being chosen by 7 out of 10 respondents, followed closely by tequila, whiskey, hard seltzers, and ready-to-drink beverages.
The survey also revealed that the afternoon is the most popular time of day to order alcohol home delivery, although early evening and late evening options also follow.
“This survey shows a very different picture to the one we experienced during the pandemic and event after that period of time, where On Premise consumption was hit hard. Today, the changing trends in bar and restaurant consumption reflect a more dynamic and constantly evolving environment. With overall satisfaction at high levels and a consumer eager to resume visits and social gatherings, the future looks promising for this channel,” mentioned Mike Rende, Associate Client Solutions Director, CGA by NIQ.
CGA by NIQ’s Mexico On Premise Consumer Pulse Report tracks key metrics in the On Premise and explores hot topics as they arise. The latest update covers new research into the Mexican On Premise, looking into topics such as past, current and projected future visitation. Download the report here or for more information, contact mike.rende@nielseniq.com.