Its Restaurant and Bars Report 2025, quotes its own BDO Consumer sentiment survey, which has highlighted a strong rebound in the dining-out sector, with a 10-percentage-point increase in year-over-year sentiment as consumers begin to prioritise eating out after a period of reduced activity.
This resurgence has been driven primarily by 18 to 24 and 25 to 34-year-olds, who continue to shape demand through a mix of affordability-driven choices and a renewed appetite for experiential dining.
Competitive edge
The BDO report said that concepts such as The Murder Express in London, which offer a fully immersive experience, blending fine dining with live entertainment in a vintage train setting, are proving popular.
As consumers seek more than just a meal, venues that embrace themed décor, curated storytelling, and interactive service models will gain a competitive edge, the report said, which will enhance customer loyalty and drive footfall.
However, economic uncertainty continues to shape consumer spending habits, driving demand for value-led promotions and loyalty incentives.
Drinking out sentiment has also improved according to the BDO consumer study. Sentiment has improved, rising six percentage points from Winter 2023 to Winter 2024, but still sits at -10% overall.
Despite broader challenges, 18 to 24-year-olds are driving this activity, making it the only age group expecting to drink out more in the next period.
Unique experiences
With going-out habits closely tied to age and income, younger and wealthier consumers remain the most resilient, venues have turned to creating unique experiences like wine tastings, quizzes, and interactive events while juggling operational costs to remain competitive.
BDO head of leisure and hospitality Mark Edwards said: “The growth period for the sector may be slower in accelerating than hoped and may even be fragile for some period to come, but the foundations are well laid.
“Culturally, in the UK as elsewhere, there is no evidence that we are becoming more socially isolationist. The idea of eating out, socialising, going away from home for holiday, visiting friends and family, is as important to consumers as ever and so focusing on what you can control now is crucial.”
