Shift in dining habits signals possible upturn for US food retail, delivery firms

Cash-conscious consumers in the US choosing to eat in rather than dine out have raised the prospect of an upturn in earnings for supermarkets and food delivery firms, according to data, analysts and company executives.

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WASHINGTON - Cash-conscious consumers in the US choosing to eat in rather than dine out have raised the prospect of an upturn in earnings for supermarkets and food delivery firms, according to data, analysts and company executives.

US President Donald Trump's tariff policies have added to economic uncertainty, increased the likelihood of stubborn inflation and made consumers question whether restaurants are worth the expense.

"I eat much more at home because first of all, eating out is way more expensive lately, and quality is not always guaranteed," Ms Marilena Graziano, a Florence-based teacher, told Reuters.

Dutch retailer Ahold Delhaize, owner of the Food Lion and Giant Food stores in the US, said earlier in August that it was increasing its offers tailored to low-cost eating in.

"We have solutions for customers to have a very affordable meal of US$2.50 (S$3.20) per person at home with the family," Ahold's chief executive Frans Muller said in an interview in August. "We have increased a lot of that proposition in our stores."