As we continue to see the effects of COVID-19 in 2020, it is more recently clear how the pandemic has affected the seafood industry. According to the Santa Barbara Independent, while other foodservice and food-related industries have been eligible for assistance, it has been harder to get a handle on the pandemic’s effect on seafood.
“That is, in large part, due to the fact that policymakers lack sufficient real-time data to see how the seafood industry is faring in the time of lockdowns and social distancing,” according to University of Vermont ecologist Easton White, as cited in the Independent’s article.
Economists now know that this dip in the seafood market was in large part due to lesser demand as restaurants across the country closed or capacity and sales have dramatically been impacted. Now, the cycle is reversed, and with some restaurants reopened at some capacity, they are unable to stock product for the dishes on their menus due to lower harvesting and production.
To reimagine menus, National Restaurant Consultants CEO Richard Weil suggests, “Ongoing communications with your seafood vendors now more than ever. Stay flexible with the seafood side of your menu. And make sure the menu posted on your website and Facebook or other social media platforms is current.”
An interesting note in seafood sales, however, was that more consumers were ordering seafood as carry-out. While the restaurants are slow and the broad demand is down, this shows that, where it can be made available, consumers are still very hungry for seafood.
It’s a consideration restaurant can make as many establishments revert back to a carry-out only model. Weil adds, “Seafood is a great way to attract new guests and repeat guests who have discovered your carry-out options. A seafood dish makes a great special. We must seek every opportunity to stay at the top of the minds of consumers.”
Whether or not your restaurant serves seafood, our restaurant consultants can help navigate all of the challenges brought on by this year. Contact a restaurant consultant today.
