Food Influencers Drive Restaurant Visits: New Survey Reveals Industry Impact

A groundbreaking new study conducted by Dubai-based marketing agency, Reach has confirmed the significant impact that food influencers and bloggers have on the restaurant industry within the UAE.

The survey, conducted with a broad spectrum of respondents including consumers, journalists and hospitality and marketing professionals, highlights the key trends and relationships between food influencers and the region’s dining establishments.

80 percent of respondents confirmed they follow food influencers or bloggers across the online channels with almost 70 percent of those questioned admitting they have been to a restaurant because they had seen an influencer attend, highlighting the persuasive power of the online figures.

The strongest result was from those specifically questioned within the hospitality sector with 85 percent stating having experienced increased footfall as a result of influencer visits. This is undeniable proof the positive impact inviting relevant influencers can have on the success of a restaurant in regard to attendance.

More than 60 percent of those surveyed said they acknowledge that influencers do influence their choice of visiting restaurants in the region and 63 percent believe food influencers are integral for the success of a restaurant.

Despite their impact, the majority of respondents felt influencers should not be receive financial incentives for visiting restaurants with some continuing that it would depend on circumstances such influencer insights, relevance and whether it was a more in-depth collaboration.

Ihab Ghazal, Founder and CEO of Reach, commented: “These interesting findings illuminate the powerful influence of food bloggers and influencers in shaping dining trends and driving restaurant patronage. As the ever-changing relationship between social media and dining continues to evolve, restaurants and influencers alike must navigate these dynamics to maximise their mutual benefits.

“At Reach, we are the bridge between the influencers and client, ensuring a harmonious and coefficient partnership that will be constructive for both parties. We are thrilled this survey has confirmed just how valuable utilising relevant influencers can be for the industry and we look forward to developing these relationships further, as well as growing our own client and influencer portfolios”

To find out more about Reach and its 360 degree marketing services, please visit: https://reachdxb.me/ or follow on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/reachdxb.