According to data released by market research firm M Science, sales at major grocery chains dropped in August, while restaurant sales grew, a clear indication that Americans are spending more of their income allocated for meals in restaurants as states relax Covid restrictions. Not surprisingly, more densely populated areas, which have had more stringent dining restrictions, saw less restaurant growth than less densely populated areas.
FreshDirect, which provides service to New York City and throughout the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast, was the only online-delivery service that experienced positive month-on-month sales growth in August. On the other hand, Instacart had a severe drop off in sales. The company attributed the decline to customers’ weariness with high costs of delivery and a greater sense of safety with in-person shopping.
M Science reported that all subsectors across the restaurant industry, including QSRs, casual and fast casual restaurants, saw monthly sales accelerate in August.