A recent Harris Poll commissioned by Omaha Steaks found while 40 percent of Americans have cut back on purchases, more than half (55 percent) are unwilling to sacrifice their summer grill-outs.
The company surveyed more than 2,000 U.S. adults before summer to better gauge how changing food purchasing habits impact Americans’ attitudes and behaviors around grilling and shopping, how they plan to spend their time this summer, how they’ll celebrate Father’s Day and other occasions.
One of the biggest survey findings highlights that Americans overestimate that dads want tools for Father’s Day. Forty-eight percent of dads want to be given a steak dinner (up 10 percent from last year’s survey) or quality time with loved ones (44 percent). A meaty meal is the gift most coveted by dads, besting other traditional gifts like tools/appliances, alcohol, clothing, tech, books, games or sporting equipment.
“I’m a dad and I know that us dads crave and appreciate shared experiences with family,” said CEO Todd Simon.
“What a stark difference between what we think dads want versus what dads actually say they want. Of course, given the enduring popularity of Omaha Steaks as Father’s Day gifts, we already know this to be true. So, give dad what he really wants – steak – and the family experiences that naturally come with it.”
Seventy percent of Americans are struggling to stay on budget and the same amount are looking to reduce how much meat they throw away at home due to spoilage. Shoppers are turning to frozen meat to combat fresh meat waste (56 percent) and offset rising prices (45 percent). And while the majority of consumers are doing most of their shopping in stores, less than half (44 percent) agree they can find quality meat options in the freezer section of grocery stores.
Nine out of 10 (92 percent) Americans look forward to grilling, with 84 percent agreeing they would like to do even more grilling this summer than last year. Americans shared they enjoy the smells, sounds and taste, with 68 percent loving the sensory experience grilling brings. And for 35 percent of Americans, grilling was named as a stress reliever – an increase from last summer. However, seven in 10 Americans note they struggle with being able to fire up the grill with short notice due to difficulties in finding or choosing specific protein options.
“Our survey reminded us that people want the best of both worlds: 80 percent said they want restaurant quality steaks at home. And when it comes down to it, we know more than anyone nothing beats a premium cut of meat, grilled to perfection, and enjoyed with your family and loved ones,” said Nate Rempe, president and chief operating officer.
“That’s why for more than a century, we’ve delivered unmatched offerings crafted by our expert team of butchers to ensure people get that gourmet experience like you would at a steakhouse, every time in the comfort of your own home or backyard.”
For grilling techniques, recipes and tips from Omaha Steaks Executive Chef David Rose, click here.
