It is very important for Quick Service Restaurants (QSRs), to critically understand consumer preferences of their potential customers since the food and beverage industry is very dynamic and highly competitive. We recently conducted a research study where we carried out in-depth exploration of the coffee-drinking habits of individuals with an aim to closely examine the intricacies of consumer behavior and product preferred by individuals within this sector.

Our team carefully planned every aspect of the study, from finding a suitable venue in the center of Delhi (NCR) to evaluating data arranged from 80 participants over the course of 15 days. We organized face-to-face interviews where we engaged with a diverse range of participants including both young adults and working professionals. Their love for coffee, which is a routine beverage consumed both at as well as in restaurants like CCD and Barista, brought them together.

But why focus on such a narrow demographic? We get the answer when we understand the diverse preferences of consumers who not only appreciate their daily coffee but also seek out unique coffee experiences away from home.

But what distinguishes this study? Let's take a moment to reflect on what motivates our decisions to choose one coffee over another. Is it the smell, taste, or the brand itself? Our study sought to answer these issues by comparing the client's coffee offerings to those of its competitors. The winning product resulting from the blind product test was based not only on taste, but also on how well it resonated with the target audience’s general impression and specific qualities of the product.

Our study’s ramifications go far beyond determining the most popular coffee. It provides a perspective through which to examine the rise in coffee demand, ensuring that the findings are consistent with the brand's strategic goals. This not only provides the client with concrete data into improving their product lineup, but a precedent for other QSRs looking to captivate their customers' palates, is also established.  

The findings of our study describe how to better understand the consumers’ preferences which are very necessary for quick-service restaurants. By taking into consideration these findings, QSRs can improve their offerings, better customize their marketing methods, and eventually develop a deeper connection with their customers by engaging directly with them which will encourage loyalty and promote growth in the highly competitive food and beverage market.