Foodservice outlets were forced to innovate this spring when COVID-19 forced the closure of dining rooms, shifting the majority of consumer demand to retail. Multiple quick service restaurant chains began to offer family meal bundles, which are designed to be an easy way to feed between four and six people.
Nearly half of U.S. consumers have ordered a family meal bundle at least once during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a Datassential survey.
“Households with kids seek family meals that offer “easy to please” options for the entire family, like classic comfort foods (meatloaf, chili) or customizable, build-your-own meals (sandwiches, tacos). One in three would like better-for-you options,” the report said.
When asked which kinds of family meal bundle options they were interested in purchasing, 25% of respondents said fried chicken. Wings, grilled chicken and chicken strips/nuggets also garnered interest.
The family meal bundles could be here to stay. The survey found that 38% of consumers planned to order one again in the future.
Regional quick service chain Zaxby’s introduced the Zax Family Packs, which includes 20 Chicken Fingerz or 30 boneless wings with shareable sides to feed four people for $24.99.
“We wanted to create an affordable meal featuring our signature menu items for families during these challenging times,” said Zach McLeroy, Zaxby’s CEO and co-founder, said in a statement. “Zaxby’s is always focused on bringing people together with flavorful comfort food made with uncompromising quality. Now more than ever, we’re all family.”
Chick-fil-A started offering Family Meals in April. The menu bundles allow customers to mix and match between eight different menu items, such as nuggets, chicken sandwiches and spicy chicken sandwiches.
“At Chick-fil-A, we’re always looking for new ways to care for our guests, particularly during this time. As families balance work, school and other obligations from the comfort (or chaos) of home, we want to help check lunch or dinner off of the to-do list,” the press release said. “In order to offer a convenient meal solution for small groups or families, more than 800 participating restaurants nationwide are launching Family Meals.”
View our continuing coverage of the coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic.
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