Generation Y's dining out behavior

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to examine the dining out activities of Gen Y's in the United States. In particular, it focuses on dining frequency, restaurant selection, restaurant segments and demographic features of Gen Yers.Design/methodology/approachEmpirical data for this study were collected from 631 Gen Y's living in the United States.FindingsThe research findings reveal a nascent exploration of eating out preferences of the Gen Y population in an industrialized country in the food service context.Research limitations/implicationsGeneration Y is a lucrative and growing customer group for the US foodservice industry. They dine out more frequently than the rest of the population and their dining out preferences are different from other cohorts.Originality/valueThis study offers some practical implications on Gen Y's dining out behavior for food service industry and restaurateurs.