Millennials and older Gen Zs are dining out several times a week, or even daily, despite pressures from the cost-of-living, according to new research.
Global product intelligence and consumer insights platform Vypr, in partnership with the FoodService Association Australia have released their report: Consumer Preferences and Dining Habits 2025. It reveals how Australian’s are adapting their dining in the face of the current cost-of-living pressures.
The research shows that 30 per cent of Australian’s are eating out less, and 10 per cent have stopped altogether.
But Millennials and older Gen Zs continue to dine out several times a week, or even daily. In particular, 25 to 34-year-olds are 1.4 times more likely to visit cafes or restaurants than the population average.
Vypr International Chief Revenue Officer Sam Gilding says their data shows that while Australian’s are being more careful with their spending, they continue to see dining out as essential to their social lives.
“Socialising with family and friends and celebrating occasions were the top two reasons for heading out to eat,” says Gilding.
“It’s therefore important for brands and retailers to understand that while value is king, it’s not the only factor shaping Australians’ dining behaviour. With consumers trying to ensure they get a good return on their dining investment, a combination of consistency, quality and affordability will be rewarded with loyalty.”
Across all demographics, value for money remains the top priority. Most consumers (79%) spend under $60 per week on dining out, with almost two-thirds (63%) preferring price discounts over loyalty schemes, and over half (52%) calling for better portion sizes.
Consistency and quality are also key, with respondents ranking reliable standards across venues as the second most important improvement restaurants could make.
Quick-service restaurants (62%) are the most frequented venues, followed by casual eateries (47%) and cafés and coffee shops (33%). Delivery apps are especially popular among 25 to 34-year-olds who are twice as likely to order from an app compared to the overall population.
Photography provided by Pexels.
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