It never ceases to amaze us that one of our blog posts with the most views is one on the history of the restaurant industry. So, now we feel compelled to write our view on its future.
The facts of the pandemic are that, for the most part, our economy has shut down. Sheltering in place, working from home, staying away from others has severely effected the ability of restaurants to attract customer, new or otherwise. Many of you have existed on carry out or home delivery, and some with outdoor dining.
None of this seems "normal". Heating, tenting, finding outdoor furnishings, even shutting down for the winter months are all expensive and major decisions that have had to be faced. Let's face it, people who have been cooped up inside for the past 14 months will be eager to go out to dine and socialize once again.
Accordingly, sources says that vaccines are being distributed and utilized on an ever-increasing scale. Some predictions require a 70% goal of vaccinated individuals for us to feel "safe" tp go out once again. Right now, it's assumed that this goal may be met by September 2021.
Eating out at a restaurant is not only a place to enjoy good food in pleasant surroundings, it's also a social occasion that is shared between family and friends. It's there that you can engage with friends, talk over business, make sales calls, and enjoy entertainment.
Here at JI Bases, we're predicting that with all these conditions, the restaurant and bars will enjoy a boom in their business as hasn't been
seen for many years. People are sick and tired of being told that they can't gather in public places; they'll be returning to work at offices as working from home doesn't work for everyone. It will be paramount to be ready for this influx.
Folks will have a choice; your old customers will return but in order for you to take advantage of a larger market share some things will have to occur. The quality of food and service, as well as comparative costs, will always be important. But, don't forget ambiance, environment and the feelings of "safety" will now be more important than ever. People will be looking for comfort, cleanliness, and a place that is different from where they have been quarantined for so long.
