Young and educated. This is the profile of patrons-types that emerges from the October 2024 previews of a survey on out-of-home consumption habits, promoted by Fiera Milano and HostMilano and conducted by CSA Research.

Among the most significant data, it stands out that young people between 18 and 34 go to restaurants up to 3 or more times a week, while the percentage drops to 22 percent for over-65s. Level of education also influences behavior: only 17 percent of people with low educational qualifications habitually frequent restaurants, compared to 37 percent of those with a college education. Regarding consumption occasions, lunch is the most preferred time by 45 percent of respondents, followed by social dinners, seen as an opportunity to socialize and share experiences.

However, by what criteria do Italians choose a place to eat out? The Top 3 most cited see, in order, quality and freshness of ingredients, relevant for 85 percent of consumers; affordability, cited as a decisive factor by 72 percent; and atmosphere and service, which count for 65 percent of respondents. In parallel, the affirmation of food delivery continues, with particularly strong growth in southern Italy and medium-sized cities: in these areas, the use of delivery has increased by 25 percent in the past two years.

This data shows how the industry is undergoing an intense transformation, aimed at adapting to new demands for quality, accessibility and innovation highlighted by consumers. The results offer valuable insights for the restaurant industry, which is called upon to anticipate emerging expectations and improve the dining experience both in the dining room and in home services. Insights that can be further developed at Host 2025, particularly in the rich schedule of events.

The survey is an ongoing project until Host 2025, at fieramilano - Rho from 17 to 21October 2025, thus accompanying with data and insights the supply chain players to optimally seize the opportunities of the exhibition. Starting in Italy, with 1,500 interviews with a representative sample and including analysis with opinion leaders, the research will gradually expand to a total sample of 8,000 respondents from, in addition to Italy, the Middle East, Spain, France, Germany, the United Kingdom and the United States.