Independents vs. Chains: Consumer insights as to who wins what

A broad-brush story in today’s Marketing Daily points to the differences between chain restaurants and independent cafes… from the viewpoint of the consumer.  Click here to see the story.

Implications:  Of course, this story doesn’t provide an actionable plan for any chain or independent restaurant, but it gives some great pointers as to questions you might ask in local research of your own.  There are plenty of independent restaurant owners who would love to have the resources of a big chain operation, but there are also an abundant number of franchise restaurateurs who would love to have the local menu and flexibility of an independent café. 

The truth is, you both have advantages worth talking about.  The key is to focus on your strengths… as seen by the consumers you serve.

Mike Anderson, for the Elm Street Economics consumer trends blog. A service of The Center for Sales Strategy, Inc.