A recent consumer survey revealed that 25% of respondents consider “the ability to order using a touch screen” an important factor when selecting a conveyor belt sushi restaurant, reflecting a growing acceptance of this dining model.
TOKYO, JAPAN (WS News Publisher) – The “2024 Revolving Sushi Consumer Survey,” conducted with 12,323 participants aged 15 to 59 across Japan, found that over 70% of people prefer dining at conveyor belt sushi establishments. Notably, more than a quarter of respondents view touch screen ordering as a significant feature in their restaurant choice, emphasizing the popularity of conveyor belt sushi as a favored way to enjoy sushi and the public’s embrace of this dining innovation.
According to the survey, 70.5% of consumers opt for sushi at conveyor belt restaurants, surpassing those who purchase sushi from supermarkets (51.3%) or make hand-rolled sushi at home (20.2%). Among conveyor belt sushi patrons, 40% visit these restaurants at least once a month, with the 20-29 age group showing the most enthusiasm—46.5% dine there monthly.
When choosing a conveyor belt sushi restaurant, consumers prioritize three main factors: affordability, proximity, and fresh ingredients. Notably, 26.3% of respondents highlighted the importance of touch screen ordering in their decision-making process.
Although a nuisance incident occurred in Japan’s conveyor belt sushi in early 2023, which affected consumers’ confidence in food safety on the conveyor belt, many conveyor belt sushi restaurants have reformed their meal supply methods and switched to touch-screen ordering and fresh-to-order meals. The meal service model improves the quality of meals and increases consumers’ confidence in food hygiene.
After the COVID-19 epidemic, sushi terrorist attacks, and other incidents, cooked-to-order ensures that fresh meals are provided quickly and prevents customers from getting the wrong sushi ordered by others. Restaurants can also better track consumer preferences. Industry analysts point out that chain stores that offer locally produced, mid- to high-priced sushi tend to shift to new methods.
Conveyor belt sushi restaurants are both convenient and fun and have become indispensable dining options for Japanese people. However, the reform of the catering model has caused them to lose their unique service style and the excitement of customers enjoying the dazzling array of delicious food constantly appearing in front of their eyes. How sushi operators can reform a service model made to order and cater to visually stimulating consumption has become the focus of continuous challenges for conveyor belt sushi operators.
