Valentine’s Day is positive for the food sector outside the home

Valentine’s Day was a success for the away-from-home food sector, which can solve two of the main problems faced by establishments: passing on inflation to the final price of services and making business profitable. However, caution must be exercised, as the absence of commemorative dates in the coming months may bring difficulties. This is the analysis of João Ricardo Tonin, economist at FoodCo.

According to Abrasel (Brazilian Association of Bars and Restaurants), 19% of the restaurants that do not open their doors on Mondays, made an exception this Valentine’s Day. According to Tonin, people have just received their salaries, and as giving gifts and going out to dinner are traditions on the date, the atmosphere among businessmen in the sector is one of optimism.

In April, 21% of food establishments away from home were still operating at a loss, 41% had their finances in balance and 37% were making a profit, according to data from Abrasel. Even so, the economist signals that April’s performance was the best of the year so far, which indicates improvement.

The large number of commemorative dates in the first months of the year boosted the sector. Tonin warns, however, that the next special date will only be in August, Father’s Day.

“The next 60 days will not be so easy for the industry. Although we have a better economic perspective ahead, it is important to guarantee a reserve for unforeseen situations in the future. We still face instability in gas, energy and labor prices, which represent significant costs for the sector”, concludes Tonin.

The FoodCo. with the complete and audio analysis of the economist João Ricardo Tonin is an exclusive weekly content for the platform’s subscribers. FoodCo. is the largest community of bar and restaurant owners in Brazil. There are more than 13,000 entrepreneurs in the sector gathered in a network of knowledge and networking, with access to essential content for those who undertake food outside the home.