A survey shows Texans lead the nation in dining out, with a statewide average of 3.8 meals per week, approximately 20% higher than the national average of 3.1.
Despite some hopeful signs of slight economic recovery, most Americans say they will eat out less and cut back on entertainment in 2012. A recent Harris Poll, as reported in the December 13, 2012, Atlanta Journal-Constitution, shows 61% of U.S. adults say they will likely spend less in restaurants, while 58% say they will curtail their entertainment budgets during the next six months.
Most Americans’ plates do not resemble the nutritionally-balanced quadrants on the USDA’s MyPlate (the new federal guidelines for a healthful daily diet). So note market research firm The NPD Group’s new food and beverage findings, as reported in an online article by Pizzamarketplace.com (December 13, 2011).
The lackluster economy may have dampened growth for the restaurant industry at large, but fast-casual restaurants continue to stand out as one notable exception.