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Insight of the Day: A look at the most frequent QSR customers and what drives their frequency

Findings:

  • Frequent QSR Visitors: Nearly 9% of consumers visit QSRs 15+ times a month, with 57% of them aged 25-44.

  • Demographics: Frequent QSR visitors are mostly male, live in the South, and often have children under 18. They also tend to have higher incomes.

  • Motivators: Taste, speed, and convenience are the primary drivers for QSR visits, but motivators vary by occasion and daypart.

The YouGov Quick Service Restaurant Report 2024 revealed that the primary motivators for QSR visits are:

  1. Taste (49%): Consumers prioritize the flavor and enjoyment of the food.

  2. Speed (47%): The quick service aspect is essential, especially for those with busy schedules or limited time.

  3. Convenience (45%): Easy access to locations, drive-thrus, and online ordering options play a significant role.

Additional motivators include:

  • Affordability (35%): Value for money is a factor, especially in the current economic climate.

  • Quality (31%): While not the top motivator, perceived quality still influences consumer choices.

The report also found that motivators vary depending on the occasion and time of day:

  • Breakfast: Convenience is the top priority, followed by affordability.

  • Late Night: Speed is the main driver, motivated by cravings.

  • After Dinner: Affordability is key for after-dinner snacks.

  • Mid-Morning Snack: Taste and affordability are important factors.

  • Lunch, Mid-Afternoon Snack, and Dinner: Taste and cravings are the primary motivators.

  • Ordering Preferences: Drive-thrus are the most popular ordering method for both frequent and occasional QSR visitors.

  • Brand Affinities: McDonald's leads in terms of visit frequency and brand perception across various attributes, while other brands like Burger King, Taco Bell, and KFC show varying popularity among different age groups.

Key Takeaway:

Understanding the demographics and motivations of frequent QSR customers is crucial for tailoring marketing and operational strategies in the quick-service restaurant industry.

Trend:

Younger demographics (25-44) and families are driving the frequency of QSR visits, highlighting the need for brands to cater to their preferences for convenience, taste, and affordability.

Conclusions:

  • McDonald's dominance in the QSR market is evident, but other brands are gaining traction among specific demographics.

  • Drive-thrus remain a crucial touchpoint for QSRs, and improving the experience can enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty.

  • Tailoring menus and marketing campaigns to specific dayparts and occasions can attract different customer segments.

  • Catering to the preferences of families and younger demographics can increase visit frequency and drive sales.

Implications for Brands:

  • Target Marketing: Tailor marketing campaigns to specific demographics, focusing on their preferences and motivations.

  • Menu Innovation: Develop new menu items and promotions that cater to the diverse needs of different customer segments.

  • Drive-Thru Optimization: Enhance the drive-thru experience by improving speed, accuracy, and customer service.

  • Digital Channels: Invest in mobile ordering and delivery options to cater to the growing demand for convenience.

  • Customer Engagement: Focus on building relationships with frequent customers through loyalty programs and personalized offers.

  • Data-Driven Decisions: Leverage data and insights to understand customer behavior and preferences, and make informed business decisions.

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