Technomic has identified five themes that will define consumer foodservice behavior this year, and presented them at Technomic's annual Consumer Insights Planning Program meeting, January 11-12, 2017 in Newport Beach, California. A comprehensive analysis of evolving consumer lifestyles paired with exclusive industry, menu, operator, and consumer data signals that 2017 will see an accelerated fragmentation of consumer attitudes and purchase drivers.  

"Overarching trends related to increased demand for high-quality, better-for-you fare and unique yet convenient foodservice experiences will not subside," said Kelly Weikel, Technomic's director of consumer insights. "However, the way that consumers define these important elements and their willingness and ability to pay more for them increasingly varies from one consumer to the next. This year it will be especially important for operators to understand niche consumer groups and meet expectations at a range of value tiers."