News

Recessionary diners: Eat out more but tip less

28 June 2012

 Seven out of ten Brits tip less than 10% reveals latest Livebookings Dining Index

Despite the tough economic climate, many consumers remain defiant about enjoying a meal out with family and friends. Whilst the frequency of eating out has risen in the last six months , the majority of Brits are making sure they monitor their spending on alcohol, food and tips.

In the latest Livebookings Dining Index, restaurants report that seven out of every ten customers (73%) tip less than 10% of their bill, and 82% of restaurants feel that consumers are generally tipping less than they did six months ago.* The findings show that, on average, Brits spend between £11 and £20 on food, and less than £10 each on alcohol when dining out. This means UK diners often leave as little as £1.50 to tip the service they receive.

Colin Tenwick, CEO of Livebookings, explains: “Despite the fact many households have to work hard at the moment to balance the books, dining out is one luxury consumers aren’t getting rid of. Rather, they are looking out for the best value deals and keeping an eye on how much they spend. Restaurants need to make sure they don’t cut back on service quality and deliver a memorable dining experience to keep customers coming back for more.”

The Livebookings Index reveals the amount people are willing to tip has decreased in the last six months, and seven out of ten restaurants report that diners are spending more on special offers.

The most booked restaurants for special offers in 2012 are The Waldorf, Fire & Stone, OXO Tower, Quaglino’s and Aladin.

10 most popular special offers

1. Homage Grand Salon at The Waldorf
2. Fire & Stone
3. OXO Tower
4. Quaglino's
5. Aladin
6. Ristorante Semplice
7. Planet Hollywood London
8. Citrus Restaurant
9. Harlequin Restaurant
10. Kings Road Steakhouse & Grill - Marco Pierre White

The full Livebookings Dining Index report is available at: http://www.livebookings.co.uk/livebookings_restaurant_index

*Taste of the Nation survey 2011 – eating out has risen by 12% in the last six months