Younger Americans Cut Back on Dining Out, Impacting Fast-Casual Chains Like Cava and Chipotle
Younger consumers are tightening their belts, and fast-casual restaurants are feeling the pinch. Cava, the Mediterranean-style chain, reported slower same-restaurant sales growth in Q3 as 18- to 34-year-olds dine out less frequently. CFO Tricia Tolivar notes this demographic faces mounting economic pressures—student loan repayments, inflation—yet those who still visit Cava aren’t skimping on orders. Premium proteins, drinks, and pita chips remain in their baskets.
The trend isn’t isolated. Chipotle executives warn the fast-casual sector risks being perceived as offering poor value, a critical misstep when affordability dominates consumer priorities. With discretionary spending under scrutiny, chains must adapt to retain younger patrons or risk further softening demand.
