French people and restaurants - statistics & facts
When it comes to food consumption outside the home (FCOH), commercial catering plays an important role, as it is the leading industry generating the largest share of the sector's income. The revenues of commercial restaurant chains have been growing steadily since 2006. However, 2020 represents a breakthrough for the restaurant industry. The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic impacted business performance, as establishments had to close their doors to the public for most of the year in France, with siginificant losses in the catering industry. Some restaurants tried alternatives to deal with the crisis, such as offering take-out services, as a way to avoid excessive losses. Nevertheless, not all restaurants had the resources to implement this type of service effectively.
If going to the restaurant is a practice rooted in French culture, higher taxes, unemployment, coupled with the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, are all factors contributing to the decline in restaurant visits. Nevertheless, even if the practice becomes occasional for some, the French population still appreciates time spent with their loved ones in restaurants. In fact, at least 60 percent of French people consider this to be a moment of relaxation, pleasure, and sharing. Traditional or themed restaurants are particularly appreciated by consumers. French cuisine is most sought after, followed by Asian and Italian.
During the week, restaurants tend to be a bit deserted in favor of fast-food restaurants, bakeries, or sandwich shops; everything that constitutes the fast food industry, in short. This industry is finding more and more followers today because it is not only about buying a sandwich or a salad in a wrapped tray. New concepts offer both quality and speed, which attracts customers.
If going to the restaurant is a practice rooted in French culture, higher taxes, unemployment, coupled with the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, are all factors contributing to the decline in restaurant visits. Nevertheless, even if the practice becomes occasional for some, the French population still appreciates time spent with their loved ones in restaurants. In fact, at least 60 percent of French people consider this to be a moment of relaxation, pleasure, and sharing. Traditional or themed restaurants are particularly appreciated by consumers. French cuisine is most sought after, followed by Asian and Italian.
During the week, restaurants tend to be a bit deserted in favor of fast-food restaurants, bakeries, or sandwich shops; everything that constitutes the fast food industry, in short. This industry is finding more and more followers today because it is not only about buying a sandwich or a salad in a wrapped tray. New concepts offer both quality and speed, which attracts customers.
