Operators and chefs from dozens of leading hotels, gastropubs and restaurants across the country were interviewed to reveal insights into perceptions and sales of ice cream in the high end out-of-home market.
The research also showed that dessert consumption was up, with almost 85% of those questioned claiming that ice cream was bought by more than half of all diners. A small number (15%) of those questioned claimed that desserts were purchased by at least 80% of customers, indicating that diners are increasingly indulging when eating out.
“The perception that diners are too health-conscious to indulge in dessert is actually slightly skewed,” said Amore di Gelato MD Mike Godwin. “Our experience says that consumers very much enjoy dessert, but aren’t willing to spend money on low quality products.
“The numbers clearly show that offering exciting, modern versions of a classic concept will help dessert sales. This is a key opportunity for operators, who can develop their desserts sales numbers – an area that can typically offer excellent returns.”
The other emerging trend revealed by the research was a ‘maturation’ of ice cream consumption, as dishes with an alcoholic twist were boosting sales for a number of high-end establishments. These varied across the UK, with northern hotels and pubs serving up the likes of ‘stout’ ice cream, while southern consumers preferred flavours such as Amoretti Amaretto.
The most popular flavours across a section of hotels, restaurants and gastropubs:
Tried Parmesan flavour recently. “@FoodBev: Innovation drives UK's popular #icecream flavours http://t.co/45Df7tGyxp pic.twitter.com/KQnhsttSUF” — Graeme Cleland (@gracle) September 10, 2014
Tried Parmesan flavour recently. “@FoodBev: Innovation drives UK's popular #icecream flavours http://t.co/45Df7tGyxp pic.twitter.com/KQnhsttSUF”
— Graeme Cleland (@gracle) September 10, 2014
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