As a child, you likely begged your parents to take you out to McDonald’s. In 2021, though, that idea might make you cringe, especially if you have kids of your own.
That’s because fast food isn’t what it used to be. The pandemic has wreaked havoc on the industry. The most recent fast food facts and statistics look nothing like they did in our parents’ era.
Are you wondering what’s changed with fast food and why? If so, then we’ve got you covered. Read on to learn more about fast food facts, statistics, and trends in 2021.
Fast Food Wasn’t So Fast in 2021
The number one reason why our parents got hooked on fast food was the idea that it’s fast. Rather than spending the night cooking, parents could grab a meal.
We’ve come to expect that convenience and speed over time. But, in 2021, everything changed. All the sudden, fast food started to take longer and longer. There are a ton of reasons for this including:
- Increased demand
- More complex orders
- Fewer employees
- New options (pickup, delivery)
Fast food is still faster than cooking or going to a restaurant, but expect longer wait times this year.
More Fast Food Workers Are Leaving the Industry
Throughout 2020 and 2021, we’ve seen a mass exodus of US workers from their jobs. Restaurants, in particular, have taken a huge hit. Statistics show that an unbelievable 7% of food service workers quit in Aug. of 2021 alone!
Many fast food workers are leaving due to Covid-19. They don’t want to get exposed to the virus. Some can’t handle the uptick in demand since the pandemic hit. Others are leaving because of long-term problems like low pay and rude customers.
Lobby Changes and a Focus on Delivery
At the beginning of the pandemic, most fast food places closed their lobbies. In place of the lobby, they started to focus on delivery and pickup options. While some have re-opened, most have not. This change is likely here to stay.
Consumers are Looking at Healthier Options
What consumers want matters, and today, expectations are high.
Consumers as a whole want better, healthier options. They want food safety and physical safety, too. Fast food industries must take these demands into account as we head into 2022.
Fast Food Industries are Facing Shortages
As if an employee shortage wasn’t enough, supplies are low, too. Fast food restaurants are being forced to downsize portions and get rid of menu options. For instance, Chik-Fil-a’s former 6 or 8 piece kid’s meals are now reduced to 5 only.
Fast Food Facts in 2022 and Beyond
The above fast food facts, statistics, and trends all point towards a new era. In 2022 and beyond, it looks like “food” will be the priority, while the “fast” part will likely fade away.
Consumers want healthy and safe food. They no longer idolize children’s play areas or the speed at which their food gets made.
The fast food industry isn’t the only one getting a shake up thanks to the pandemic. If you’re hoping to keep on top of the latest news and trends, then you’re in the right place. Keep browsing through our business section now to see more of our best articles.