CHICAGO — A new study from the Chicago-based research firm Technomic has found that the bakery café foodservice segment has outpaced industry sales and unit growth for each of the past three years, with a 12 per cent increase during that time and a 4.2 per cent unit growth.
“Bakery cafe chains continue gaining market share in a zero-growth environment,” said Darren Tristano, Technomic EVP.“More consumers are visiting these restaurants and are gaining familiarity, but nearly one in three consumers surveyed still haven’t been to a bakery café concept. Their most common reasons have to do with location and unfamiliarity. As more units open, and, as marketing efforts continue to boost awareness, there is little reason to think the segment will not continue to perform well.”
Among the study’s findings 71 per cent of consumers have visited a bakery café, up from 43 per cent in 2008. Other findings indicate there is room for more variety on bakery café breakfast menus. In the meantime, popular offerings include wraps and sandwiches featuring artisanal breads such as Focaccia and Ciabatta. And, the study shows a focus on service is important to customers.
For more report findings, visit technomic.com.
