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While challenges remain, there are optimistic signs for drinks brands and suppliers to shape a successful On Premise strategy in the year ahead.
Consumer habits in December
December traditionally sees a shift in consumer habits, influenced by festive preparations and colder weather. In December 2024, 87% of consumers visited bars, cafés, restaurants and other venues, up slightly from December 2023 (+2pp).
Yet, drink-led occasions have dipped slightly to 49% (-1pp), while food-led occasions increased to 87% (+2pp). Although satisfaction with influential aspects of the On Premise experience remains strong, with cleanliness, quality of service, and value for money scoring above 80%.
What have consumers been drinking?
Beverage preferences in December reflect the season. Hot drinks topped the list at 37% (-2pp versus a year ago), while beer 33% (-2pp) and wine 32% (+1pp) followed. Furthermore, satisfaction ratings for drinks remain high, with wine leading in perceived value for money (91%) and quality of serve (94%).
Meanwhile, cocktails continue to captivate, with 37% of consumers who tried a new drink opting for cocktails. Younger demographics, particularly Gen Z (+33pp) and Parisians (+15pp) are at the forefront of this trend, highlighting an appetite for innovation and fresh flavours in the beverage category.
Road to Recovery
January poses unique challenges for CHR. Post-festive fatigue, coupled with the impact of Dry January, means only 38% of consumers plan to go out for a drink (-14pp), and 77% plan to eat out (-10pp) compared to the previous year.
But there is opportunity, despite these uninspiring metrics, with 40% of Gen Z consumers intending to visit CHR venues more regularly in January. In addition, a fifth of all French consumers plan to increase their visits compared to last month.
Opportunities for 2025
There are clear opportunities to optimise the On Premise experience as the sector prepares for 2025, such as:
- Create comfort – Accentuate cosy, inviting atmospheres, seasonal food and drinks menus and warm hospitality to counteract the appeal of staying at home during the colder months.
- Innovate high interest products – Cocktails are still causing excitement and bold, creative cocktail menus can encourage adventurous consumers who are open to trying something new.
- Engage younger demographics – Gen Z continues to show enthusiasm for going out. Tailored marketing and experiences aligning with their tastes and preferences helps capture this lucrative audience.
Julien Veyron, Client Solutions Director – France said: “Consumer demand for quality experiences and innovative offerings presents an opportunity to overcome seasonal fluctuations and stay ahead. The French CHR market can benefit from new growth potential in the year ahead by focusing on tailored solutions, while maintaining consistently high standards.”
Download the free Consumer Pulse report here.
CGA by NielsenIQ’s best-in-class range of research sources enable beverage suppliers and manufacturers to craft data-driven and winning strategies across all On Premise channels, categories and occasions. Analysis can be tailored to the needs of specific brands. To learn more on how you can win in the remainder of 2024 and into 2025, contact the CGA by NielsenIQ team.