Christmas 2020 in hospitality

Consumers expectations for Christmas 2020

Take a look at our latest research showing what consumers would consider purchasing this Christmas. We looked at how the status of their local restaurants and pubs is likely to impact their behaviour during Christmas 2020 in hospitality? You can download the full infographic here. Or read more about our thoughts on hospitality re-opening.

 

Christmas 2020 in hospitality

Our latest snap poll (12/11/20) measured the interest of consumers across a number of potential scenarios over the Christmas period. Given the unpredictability the industries current situation, our clients wanted to try and prepare for different potential scenarios over Christmas.

Obviously, things can change and lockdown measures are unpredictable but the results from the poll were very positive. A significant proportion of consumers are very likely to support the hospitality industry this Christmas even if venues are closed.

Take-aways from pubs and restaurant likely to surge over Christmas

Venues which offer a take-away or delivery service can expect a surge in demand over the festive period. Especially if they are forced to close. 

The poll found that 24% of respondents would consider purchasing a take-away from their local pub or restaurant over the upcoming Christmas period. This figure rose to an impressive 36% if their local hospitality venues were forced to close.

Hospitality should tap into ‘celebrating at home’

25% said they’d consider a take-away Christmas dinner on Christmas day specifically if venues are forced to close. 24% if they are open.

20% said they would consider purchasing a “ready-to-cook Christmas meal kit’ from their local pub/restaurant if they were closed on Christmas day. 17% were open to the idea even if venues are open. This was particularly popular with GenZ and younger Millennials (26%.)

The research found that different ‘celebrate at home’ kits could prove popular. 25% said they’d consider purchasing a ‘New Year’s Eve ‘celebrate at home kit’ from a local pub/restaurant eg alcohol and snacks. 20% said they’d be interested even if venues are open.

Maximising different day parts over Christmas

The poll also showed opportunities for venues to maximise different day parts, even during the festive period. 22% said they’d consider visiting a pub or restaurant for breakfast or brunch on Christmas day. 24% said they’d consider celebrating New Year’s Eve earlier in the day this year, by visiting a pub or restaurant for lunch instead of dinner.

Gift vouchers are a key opportunity

Gift vouchers also attracted a significant amount interest: 26% would consider buying a gift voucher for a pub/restaurant if venues aren’t open- and 22% would if they are.

This area of income is totally underused by the industry and now, more than ever deserves focus. Any operators out there who don’t do gift vouchering right now- or don’t do it very well- should act now to capitalise on this consumer-led trend.

You can download the above infographic here or read more about our thoughts on hospitality re-opening. If you’d like further information on this research or would like to better understand your customers intentions and attitudes email us: katy@kam-media.co.uk.

Blake Gladman

Hi, I'm Blake, Strategy & Insight Director at KAM. I look after all our research products and manage the collection and delivery of insight throughout KAM. I love long runs and good food (the perfect life balance).