When you visit your favorite restaurant, ask yourself, is it because of the food? Or is it because of the experience you enjoy going there? The food might lead you to a restaurant, but it's the experience that will keep you coming back for more.
In fact, according to a recent report, 74% of consumers noted a positive experience influences their purchasing decision in the restaurant industry. One of the most critical components of the consumer experience is customer safety with the food.
Check out this guide to learn more about how food safety impacts the customer experience and what the industry is doing to improve it.
Customer Loyalty
Having a loyal customer base is critical for any industry, especially in the food industry. There was a recent study focusing on finding factors that increased customer satisfaction in China's fast-food restaurants. The study concluded one of the most critical factors that drive customer loyalty is the guest experience and how satisfied they are with the service.
The satisfaction from customers often led to the repurchasing of menu items and consumers returning for another visit. Customer safety should be a primary concern to please the customers and enhancing their dining experience.
When customers have a bad experience because of food safety concerns, it can deter them from ever coming back. A recent survey identified that 60 percent of individuals who experienced a foodborne illness said they would never return to the restaurant.
Employee Training and Certifications
Most restaurants now spend a significant part of the employee's first few shifts going over food safety training. They learn about how you should do things to address the customers and food safety concerns they have. This is essential information employees need to know to give them the ability to provide the best consumer experience possible.
The training materials will focus on preventing foodborne illnesses from developing and spreading to protect customers better. From the customer's perspective, when managers and other employees obtain food safety certifications, it can help give them peace of mind. They know the employee will handle their food appropriately.
Industry Concerns
Something else to keep in mind is that food safety can go beyond just restaurants. It can affect entire supply chains and distributors as well.
Suppose a significant outbreak happens, such as the E. Coli outbreak in 2006 linked to spinach. It can influence consumers' purchasing habits even after the event is over. Customers might not order spinach salads as a result, which can disrupt the supply chain.
Enhancing the Customer Experience
When it comes to the food industry, there are two primary concerns - customers and food safety. The customers are going to keep the business running by paying for its services. Food safety is going to enhance the customer experience and keep them satisfied to come back again.
If you are interested in improving the customer experience through better food safety protocols, contact us today, and we can help you get started.