Full-Service Restaurants in Chile

2020 IMPACT

Closures and ongoing restrictions dampen growth for full-service players

The onset of COVID-19 in Chile saw the government install a lockdown from March 2020, closing essential retailers, public places, offices, schools and foodservice venues. While foodservice venues were closed for dine-in experiences, they were permitted to operate delivery and takeaway services during lockdown times.

Strategic alliance remain central to sales strategies for players

Strategic alliances continued to be key for many players, especially those related to banks and cards discounts. Special discounts on certain days or on certain products have become the norm, extending beyond traditionally being used by limited-service players, to being used by full-service players during COVID-19.

Smaller players install their own delivery systems, avoiding last-mile apps

The high costs of last-mile players commissions were an issue for smaller players during 2020, leading many to choose to create their own apps and online delivery services. In response to heightened demand, many last-mile players increased their commission rates, making it impossible for many smaller players to partner with these apps, and have it being financially worthwhile.

RECOVERY AND OPPORTUNITIES

Recovery is aided by the roll-out of the COVID-19 vaccine

While the early forecast period is set to show the start of a recovery for full-service restaurants, a return to 2019 levels is not immediate. The gradual reopening of the country and the Paso a Paso program has allowed for limited capacity in terraces, with no more than four patrons in any one table, and this has helped to restart the industry somewhat.

Following the rising interest in home deliveries, full-service restaurants invest in online ordering

Over the coming years, full-service restaurants will need to continue investing in improving the delivery capacity of their products. As e-commerce and online ordering saw a rise in sales during 2020, this is set to boost interest and sales in the platform over the coming years.

Players deliver the experience and not just the meals

Full-service restaurants can find opportunities by concentrating on ways to deliver the experience of dining in their outlets to the home, making this a part of the ordering process. Offering exclusive online products, adding pre-determined mini menus, and connecting with consumers in the post-sale experience through social media, are all strategies that can make players stand out and encourage repeat purchases.