What matters most to diners today
Australian consumers across generations and cities care most about convenience, personalisation and value when dining out. They’re particularly loyal to brands they trust and willing to pay more for elevated experiences.
More than half of diners book reservations last minute
Diners have figured out that same-day reservations are a good option if they haven’t booked far in advance.
How far in advance do guests typically book reservations?
The strategies making restaurant profits rise
Restaurants across Australia are seeing growth — with a 26% year-over-year increase in reservations comparing Q1’23 to Q1’24. This year, restaurants are focused on four goals: increasing revenue, reducing operating costs, training staff and improving margins. Here’s what’s helping restaurants grow in 2024.
Loyalty is the best policy, but it’s not one-size-fits-all
In Australia, age plays a large role in what consumers look for from loyalty programs. With 83% of restaurants already offering a loyalty program, operators should curate their benefits to stay competitive.
of Gen Zers
care most about exclusive events and experiences.
of Millennials
want access to last-minute reservations.
of Gen Xers
want exclusive events and experiences.
of Gen Zers
care most about exclusive events and experiences.
of Millennials
want access to last-minute reservations.
of Gen Xers
want exclusive events and experiences.
SevenRooms operators cashed in on upgrades in 2023
What’s simmering in restaurant marketing
The biggest themes in restaurant marketing from our research are related to authenticity, community connection and timely, targeted messaging using a multichannel approach. In 2024, restaurants are investing heavily in social media and exploring AI and automation.
More than half of consumers try restaurants because of social media
Here are the top influences by generation.
To win at restaurant email marketing, the more targeted, the better
Email is the preferred channel for Millennials, Gen Xers and Baby Boomers to receive restaurant communications. And from February to May 2024, SevenRooms’ Australian customers generated over AUD$5M in revenue with Email Marketing.
Restaurant email benchmarks*
Targeted email sends see 23% higher open rates.
Targeted emails see 28% higher click-to-open rates.
Targeted emails generate 2X more revenue per email.
Targeted email sends see 23% higher open rates.
Targeted emails see 28% higher click-to-open rates.
Targeted emails generate 2X more revenue per email.
*Restaurant email benchmarks were based on a large sample of SevenRooms U.S. customers analysed in 2023.
How restaurants are powering up with AI and automation
The majority of Aussie hospitality operators are already using artificial intelligence (AI) and automation in their business and plan to expand usage this year. They’re primarily using it to analyse data and manage inventory more efficiently.
85% of restaurant operators are already using AI in some way to run their business.
