July 02, 2025
Restaurants Are Losing Their Tables to Delivery Apps
Delivery is no longer just a convenience, but the backbone of the global food service recovery. In 2024, delivery accounted for 21% of total consumer food service sales worldwide, up from just 9% in 2019, according to Euromonitor International’s latest report.
The global consumer food service market grew to USD 3.2 trillion in 2024, marking a 5.5% increase from 2023, even in the face of persistent inflation and economic headwinds. Notably, Asia Pacific led the charge, contributing 40% of global foodservice sales and projected to maintain a 6% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) through 2029.
Rocio Franco, senior consultant at Euromonitor International, said: “Inflation and economic uncertainty remain major concerns for consumers. Despite global transactions recovering to pre-pandemic levels, indicating strong demand in the industry, consumers are still cutting back on spending and opting for more affordable options.”
But the real growth story is delivery. As dining preferences shift, delivery continues to gain momentum at the expense of traditional eat-in experiences. Euromonitor forecasts delivery will make up 24% of the market by 2029, while eat-in dining is set to decline to 52%, losing 3% of its share in the same timeframe. This transition highlights an accelerating consumer demand for value, flexibility, and convenience.
Apps Help Capitalise It
Third-party delivery apps have capitalised on this trend by slashing fees, promoting loyalty perks, and using aggressive discounts to increase frequency and retain customers. These platforms are no longer just logistics providers—they’re becoming key players in customer experience and brand loyalty.
Limited-service restaurants are also seeing strong gains, offering affordable and diverse menu formats that appeal to a wide consumer base. With a focus on “snackification”—bite-sized, budget-friendly items and modular premium add-ons—these outlets are winning over value-conscious diners looking for both affordability and choice.
At the same time, the food service industry is undergoing a rapid digital transformation. Brands are investing in proprietary apps, hyper-personalised promotions, and expanded loyalty programs, enabling them to tailor experiences around customer preferences and shopping behaviour. Whether through self-service kiosks, voice-activated drive-thrus, or facial recognition tech, the goal is clear: create smoother, smarter, and more memorable touchpoints.