Consumers still eating out — and willing to voice dissatisfaction

EATING out has survived the recession in Ireland, while diners have also discovered a far greater willingness to express their dissatisfaction, according to a survey by Bord Bia.

Almost half (46%) of the population is still eating out at least once a month, with 15% of Irish people eating out at least once a week. The research was presented at the launch of the Just Ask 2011 campaign which encourages consumers to look for information when eating out regarding the origin of their meat.

The Just Ask campaign was launched by Bord Bia in 2009 and has been positively received by the restaurant trade. The research highlighted 81% of Irish diners believe it is important that restaurants use local produce, with 72% deeming it important that the origin of meat is listed on the menu. It also uncovered that nearly 80% of consumers would check the origin of meat on the menu in restaurants.