Consumers ate at fewer casual dining and midscale (family-style) restaurants in the first three quarters of 2011 than they did in the same period of 2010, according to the NPD Group. Visits to quick-service restaurants were up 1% in first-quarter 2011 but then flat for the next two quarters.
Visits to casual dining restaurants declined 2% from January to March and again from April to June, then 1% from July to September. Dining at midscale/family restaurants declined 2% in the first quarter and 4% in each of the two subsequent quarters.
Dining at upscale restaurants and hotels increased 5% in first-quarter, 4% in second-quarter, and 3% in third-quarter 2011. Fine dining represents 1% of the total restaurant market.
Source: The NPG Group, Bonnie Riggs, Restaurant Industry Analyst, 9399 W. Higgins Rd, #300, Rosemont, IL 60018; 847-692-6700; contactnpd@npd.com; www.npd.com. Price: Contact for information.
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