DoorDash has released new data from its annual Online Ordering Trends Report, with the results showing some interesting trends when it comes to ordering habits, peak times, and convenience.
The 2024 year-end report was compiled from consumer surveys as well as aggregated DoorDash data, with the new information confirming ongoing growth across the online ordering sector despite the cost-of-living pressures many are currently facing.
68 per cent of customers are ordering food delivery the same or more often than 2023. 49 per cent ordered food for delivery, while 66 per cent opted to pick up their food from the venue.
The most popular time to order food on DoorDash is 6pm on Saturday, with the platform noting a 31 per cent increase in same-store orders, a 4 per cent rise in same-store pickup orders, and 32 per cent growth in same-store delivery orders from financial year 2022-2023.
The report shows an increase in consumer demand for low- or non-alcoholic drinks as well as venues that offer promotions, loyalty programs, and well-priced items.
New trends have also emerged when it comes to ordering time, with late-night orders placed between midnight and 5am increasing by 107 per cent and early morning orders placed between 5-11am jumping by 58 per cent.
Millennials and gen Z are more likely to place late-minute food orders (74 per cent and 79 per cent respectively) compared to Baby Boomers (38 per cent), with the younger generations also relying heavily on social media when it comes to finding new restaurants to order from.
The report also covered preferred eating location, which primarily revolved around convenience and comfort.
13 per cent of gen Z customers often eat from bed, with 4 per cent preferring to eat on the couch and 39 choosing to eat in the kitchen or at the dining table.
It’s also a good reminder to ensure your packaging is as sustainable as possible given gen Z and Millennials prefer to eat straight from the container over using their own plateware.
The report was created by Dynata on behalf of DoorDash, which surveyed 1,012 respondents of varying ages, professional backgrounds, and income levels.
