In this study we analyze a large dataset of Facebook activities of local restaurants in Amsterdam, Houston, London and New York. Doing so gives broad insights in their Facebook usage and the communication patterns between them and their costumers. The dataset is quite rich and the presented statistics are merely the tip of the iceberg.
DOCUMENT
Social media are rapidly becoming a viable way of service marketing and customer engagement in the hospitality industry. Facebook, for instance, allows restaurants to publish information, multimedia content and engage with their customers e.g., to answer questions or learn about their preferences. Being active on social media has become increasingly important as customers more frequently turn to social media and the Web for restaurant reviews before deciding to visit (Lewis and Chambers, 2000).
DOCUMENT
About 20% of energy intake in the Netherlands is consumed out-of-home. Eating out-of-home is associated with higher energy intake and poorer nutrition. Menu labeling can be considered a promising instrument to improve dietary choices in the out-of-home sector. Effectiveness depends on the presentation format of the label and its attractiveness and usability to restaurant guests and restaurant owners. This exploratory study investigated which menu labeling format would be mostly appreciated by (a) (potential) restaurant guests (n386) and (b) the uninvestigated group of restaurant owners (n41) if menu labeling would be implemented in Dutch full-service restaurants. A cross-sectional survey design was used to investigate three distinct menu labeling formats: a simple health logo; (star) ranking and calorie information. Questionnaires were used as study tool. Ranking has been shown to be the most appreciated menu labeling format by both (potential) restaurant guests and owners. Statistical analysis showed that label preference of potential restaurant guests was significantly associated with age, possibly associated with level of education, and not associated with health consciousness. In summary, we found that ranking is the most appreciated menu label format according to both (potential) restaurant guests and restaurant owners, suggesting it to be a promising way to improve healthy eating out-of-home.
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