Limited-service restaurants (LSRs) are the driving force behind the commercial foodservice industry. Limited-service chains accounted for nearly three-quarters (73.2%) or $19.6bn of the Top 200 Canadian chain sales and 85.5% or 20,423 units in 2011 according to data by Technomic’s Top 200 Canadian Chain Restaurant Report.
LSRs are restaurants where patrons generally order and pay at the counter. Within this segment there are traditional fast-food locations such as Tim Hortons and McDonald’s that focus on fast service and affordable pricing, and fast-casual concepts which have a more upscale menu and ambiance and focus on made-to-order foods.
“The key to the growth within LSRs is differentiation,” says executive vice president Darren Tristano. “Most of the ‘hot concepts’ have broad consumer appeal. Consumers are seeking out locations that offer something unique, which is often delivered through fresh, better quality ingredients, a contemporary décor and ambiance, and interactive service formats.”
Fast-food patronage thrives on its convenience and value, while food distinction and ambiance are key factors driving patronage at fast-casual locations. For fast-food restaurants it’s about offering higher quality more healthy food in an updated, more upscale setting, for fast-casual restaurants, it’s about strengthening areas of value, convenience and speed of service, the report shows.
To help operators and others aligned with the foodservice industry more effectively identify opportunities for growth and gain a competitive advantage, Technomic has developed the The Canadian Future of LSR: Fast-Food & Fast-Casual Restaurant Consumer Trend Report.
Findings include:
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Source: Technomic
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