From the Los Angeles Times:
“Consumers are willing to pay monthly subscription fees for streaming services, pet food and even toilet paper. And now some restaurants are betting they’ll do the same for their favorite meals.
“Large chains such as Panera and P.F. Chang’s as well as neighborhood hangouts are increasingly experimenting with the subscription model as a way to ensure steady revenue and customer visits. Some offer unlimited drinks or free delivery for a monthly fee; others will bring out your favorite appetizer each time you visit.
“They’re following a trend: The average American juggled 6.7 subscriptions in 2022, up from 4.2 in 2019, according to Rocket Money, a personal finance app.”
According to the story, “Rick Camac, executive director of Industry Relations at the Institute of Culinary Education, said he expects many more restaurants to offer subscriptions in the coming years. Consumers are accustomed to them, he said, and the regular monthly income helps restaurants manage their cash flow.”
KC’s View:
Subscriptions can take many forms. Free delivery. Preferred seating. Dining credits. Maybe a free appetizer or drink. I like this idea a lot.
I’ve long written here (and elsewhere) about the power of being seen by any business as a regular, and that’s what this is all about. And, restaurants can get people to pay for the privilege and pleasure.
If there were a local restaurant that I loved that offered this option, depending on the benefit I’d grab it in a minute.
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