Fast Casual Is Bright Spot As Consumers Sour On Fast Food

The annual survey of full-service and limited-service restaurant customers, indicates that customer satisfaction with fast food companies is falling while full-service chains remain steady. The trend is being driven by shifting consumer preferences as well as economics. As the jobs picture improves and wages climb, albeit slightly, consumers have more money in their pocket and are choosing quality over price. Chains that provide healthier choices with higher quality ingredients are in favor over established brands.

The American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) Restaurant Report, which is based on more than 5,000 customer surveys conducted in the first quarter 2015, will provide scores on a 100-point scale for the nation’s largest fast food (and “fast casual”) and full-service restaurant chains, including:

* Quick Service Restaurants: Arby’s, Burger King, Chick-fil-A, Chipotle, Domino’s, Dunkin’ Donuts, Jack in the Box, KFC, Little Caesar, McDonald’s, Panera Bread, Papa John’s, Pizza Hut, Starbucks, Subway, Taco Bell, Wendy’s
* Full Service Restaurants: Applebee’s, Chili’s, Cracker Barrel, Denny’s, LongHorn Steakhouse, Olive Garden, Outback Steakhouse, Red Lobster, Red Robin, Ruby Tuesday, Texas Roadhouse, TGI Fridays