Sentiment Wins Out over Hard Numbers for Quick-Service Franchises

While there’s no doubt a country’s economy plays a major role in the success of any business, data indicates the popularity of quick-service restaurants has more to do with positive consumer sentiment than economic performance.

The NPD Group recently reported that based on studies conducted in Australia, Canada, China, Great Britain and the U.S. during the fourth quarter of 2014, visits to quick-service restaurants increased regardless of whether a nation’s economy was in recovery or slowing down thanks to positive consumer sentiment.

What’s more, the organization illustrated how quick-service restaurants appeal to consumers on both sides of the economic equation.

“The global quick-service restaurant segment serves a variety of consumer needs regardless of positive or negative sentiment,” Bob O’Brien, global senior vice president of foodservice at NPD Group, said. “For those consumers who are optimistic, quick service serves their need for convenience and grabbing a meal or snack on-the-go, and for those less positive, quick-service enables them to treat themselves to an affordable meal out.”