Even fast-casual dining may be too much of a financial burden for younger generations.
Chipotle CEO Scott Boatwright said young diners between the ages of 25 and 35 are cutting back on dining at the Mexican-inspired fast-casual chain. But these millennial and Gen Z customers are not snubbing Chipotle for other fast food spots; they’ve stopped dining out as frequently altogether.
“This group is facing several headwinds, including unemployment, increased student loan repayment, and slower real wage growth,” Boatwright told investors at the company’s earnings presentation on Wednesday. “We’re not losing them to the competition. We’re losing them to grocery and food at home.”
Some meals are that easy. Others require constat stirring. Note that I said meal - one dish is not a meal.
We are talking about Chipotle alternatives. I doubt much on Chipotle’s menu requires hours of constant stirring.
But even if not, really the only thing that requires constant stirring is risotto and even that’s only for about 30 mins of active prep.
I’ve worked as a sous chef for a bit, so I understand cooking takes effort, but it’s not a 2 hour process unless you’re cooking in bulk to save time for later in the week.
Point is, It’s not much of a time saver to go out to eat, unless it’s already cooked.
Most chain restaurants here seem comparable in quality to some of the better microwave meals.