Speed of Service
Gen Z prioritises speed in service, reflecting their fast-paced lifestyles. Quick service models, such as counter service or streamlined online ordering systems, are essential to meet their expectations. Implementing efficient service strategies can enhance customer satisfaction and encourage repeat business.
Sustainability and Ethical Eating
Sustainability is not just a preference, but a value that drives the choices they make. Catering outlets that demonstrate environmental responsibility by sourcing locally, reducing waste, and offering sustainable packaging are more likely to attract Gen Z diners. Highlighting these practices in marketing efforts can resonate deeply with this audience.
Plant-Based Alternatives
The demand for plant-based alternatives is strong among this age group, with 19% embracing plant-based eating habits. This preference is driven by both health consciousness and environmental concerns. Offering a variety of plant-based options, including innovative meat substitutes, can cater to this demographic’s dietary preferences while also appealing to their ethical values.
Health-Conscious Menu Items
Gen Z seeks out menu items that contribute to their overall wellness. This includes foods that support digestive health, are organic, and made from fresh, sustainable ingredients. Caterers can attract Gen Z by clearly labelling health benefits and sourcing practices, thereby aligning their offerings with their own health priorities.
Reliable and Transparent Information
Raised in the information age, Gen Z’ers are sceptical of online content and values transparency. They often verify health and nutrition information through independent research. Providing clear, honest information about ingredient sourcing, nutritional content, and preparation methods can build trust and credibility with them.
Online Ordering and Digital Integration
Gen Z has seamlessly integrated online ordering into their dining habits, a trend accelerated by the pandemic. They favour platforms that offer ease of use, quick turnaround times, and reliable delivery services. Investing in a user-friendly online ordering system and considering ghost kitchens can help meet the demand for convenient, high-quality delivery options.
Social Media-Inspired Food Trends
Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok significantly influence Gen Z’s dining choices. They often seek out visually appealing and trend-driven dishes that are ‘Instagrammable’. Creating unique, photogenic menu items and promoting them on social media can attract Gen Z diners. Additionally, encouraging user-generated content can actually amplify these trends organically.
Authentic Global Cuisine
This is a generation of people which appreciates authentic global cuisine, reflecting their diverse cultural backgrounds and adventurous palates. Catering outlets offering authentic flavours and traditional preparation methods can cater to this desire for genuine culinary experiences. And don’t forget, authenticity extends to the entire dining experience, including ambience and branding.
Customisable and Flexible Menu Options
Flexibility and customisation are an important part of being able to satisfying Gen Z’s diverse tastes and dietary preferences. Build-your-own meal options allow them to personalise their orders and thereby enhancing their dining experience. This approach not only caters to individual preferences, but can help to foster a sense of ownership and satisfaction with the meal.
‘Snackification’ and Innovative Twists on Classics
Gen Z enjoys innovative twists on traditional comfort foods. Snackification—offering smaller, shareable portions of familiar dishes—appeals to their preference for variety and experimentation. Introducing creative versions of classics like burgers, pizzas, and salads can keep the menu exciting and relevant from their point of view.