Takeaway services are quite literally on everyone’s lips, and there’s no better place to observe food trends! Online food delivery is experiencing double-digit growth rates worldwide. In recent years, a transformation has been underway and continues: from traditional pizza delivery to the realm of “restaurant-to-consumer delivery.” Approximately half of the delivered meals are ordered through the restaurant’s own website, while the other half is ordered through platforms.
A closer look at statistics reveals that the customer base for food delivery services is relatively evenly distributed across income levels and genders. Only age groups show concentrations: about a third falls within the 25- to 34-year-old range, with roughly one-fifth each for the 18- to 24-year-olds and the 35- to 44-year-olds. Other age groups are less relevant. This age structure is particularly significant for marketing efforts: targeting should focus primarily on the 18- to 44-year-olds.
For you as a key player, the question naturally arises: where is the culinary food trend headed?
Pizza is Always a Hit!
Even though the beginnings of takeaway services are certainly associated with classic pizza deliveries, they still hold a strong position today. Thanks to sophisticated ordering software in web and app shops, a high degree of variability has been established. Coupled with a wide selection, the personal, detailed conversation with the waiter and special requests can be nearly replaced. So, pizza continues to be trendsetter and maintain a high level of popularity.
Burgers: Of Course!
The classic burger, often served with fries and a drink, comes in second place in terms of quantity. Personal preferences are easily accommodated, and the variety of choices has only grown. At upscale burger delivery services that also offer takeaway, different types of meats can now be selected.
Sushi, Sashimi, and Other Japanese Delicacies
Japanese specialties are no longer limited to just sushi. The menu now includes options like sashimi and a variety of noodle dishes, such as ramen, udon, and soba. Fried tempura dishes are also occasionally found. Particularly important when transporting Japanese cuisine is ensuring temperature stability in both warm and cold segments.
Indian Cuisine Established as a Food Trend!
Indian cuisine initially struggled to establish itself in the market but is now enjoying increasing popularity. Especially among customers who also demand vegetarian options, there’s a large selection available.
Asian Cuisine
Asian cuisine in general performs very well in takeaway services. This is likely due to the tradition of street food stalls, which have always focused on preparing dishes that are enjoyable for immediate consumption but also hold up well for later enjoyment.
Food Trend: Vegetarian
A growing portion of customers are requesting vegetarian dishes. This demand is now expected from all providers.
What’s Hot? Back to the Roots!
A truly new food trend can be identified in the return to traditional cuisine. Remarkably, this isn’t about a “cafeteria standard” but rather about traditional dishes made from locally available fresh high-quality ingredients, without being “overcooked,” “overloaded” with fats, or excessively salty. These are dishes commonly associated with “home-cooked” or even “grandmother’s kitchen.”
