CHICAGO — More than 80% of consumers have purchased a sandwich away from home at least once during the past 60 days, and among those consumers, 93% say they eat at least one sandwich per week, while 59% say they eat at least three sandwiches per week, according to a recent report from Technomic, a foodservice consultancy based here.
The Sandwich Consumer Trend Report also indicated that consumers may want their local sandwich spot to have a greater variety of sandwiches available. Only 52% of respondents said they were satisfied with sandwich offerings available at sub shops and delis, and only 42% were satisfied with the selection of sandwiches at full-service restaurants. In addition, 77% of consumers said that customization is a crucial factor to creating a good sandwich.
“Due to the high versatility and saturation of the sandwich market, it is important for operators to stay abreast of current trends and evolving consumer needs,” Darren Tristano, executive vice president for Technomic, said in a release. “To improve in the area of variety, operators and suppliers may want to consider offering a wider range of sandwich ingredients, developing signature sandwich offerings, and allowing guests to customize their sandwiches.”
Trends analyzed in the report include Blimpie's three-tier value menu, the growth of upscale mobile food trucks, the growing popularity of ethnic sandwiches and global flavors, artisan preparations such as the use of gourmet cheeses and breads prepared on-site, and portion sizes giving consumers control over pricing and sizing.
