The RCA and Unilever have ‘pivoted’ their support for foodservice businesses, kicking off #TakeawayTuesday as many businesses report plans to continue their takeaway and delivery solutions.
Research by Food Industry Foresight found that as a result of COVID-19 100 per cent of restaurant and café businesses surveyed had moved to takeaway, and 57 per cent had introduced delivery. Of these, 95 per cent plan to keep takeaway as a revenue stream, and 68 per cent will continue delivery.
In March the Restaurant and Catering Association (R&CA) launched national campaign #EatAloneTogether in partnership with Entertainment and Unilever Food Solutions (UFS).
Recognising the market climate, this has evolved into #TakeawayTuesday, encouraging all Australians to place an order every Tuesday in support of foodservice businesses and casual dining.
The program kicks off 21 July, and will take place every Tuesday thereafter while trade is affected.
“COVID-19 continues to impact the restaurant industry in a big way, particularly with the second wave of restrictions coming into effect in NSW and Victoria, as well as international borders remaining closed and restaurants facing an absence of both international and domestic tourism,” says RCA CEO Wes Lambert.
RCA, UFS and Entertainment will be building awareness of the day and encouraging the public to order takeaway, pick up or delivery from their favourite local and hashtag them to show support.
The initiative notes the growth in demand for takeaway and delivery, and suggests it may be a necessary part of future operations.
“People built new habits and discovered things they may otherwise not have done,” says Angela Ritchie, executive for national chain Jamaica Blue.
“We believe those customers that started buying takeaway during lockdown when there was only takeaway available may now be more likely to grab takeaway when they don’t have the time to sit in.”
