More Italians will choose Christmas lunch at a restaurant

There is a slight increase in the number of Italians who will celebrate Christmas in a restaurant this year. According to forecasts by Fipe-Confcommercio 5.4 million people will dine out, in one of over 90 thousand restaurants. The number of restaurateurs who will work on Christmas Day is also growing, at 68.6% against 66.2% last year. Business is expected to reach 420 million Euro, up 5.8% compared to last year. The Christmas lunch menu will be designed to satisfy every need: two thirds of restaurants will offer all-inclusive formulas (66.7%), with prices averaging 78 euros per person (compared to 74 euros in 2023). Most restaurants fall in the price range between €50 and €80, but 14.3% will also offer options under €50. For the little ones, the dedicated menu will be available in one in two restaurants, with an average cost of 30 euros.

Christmas is also an important time for tourism: 20% of the clientele will be visitors, both Italian and foreign, confirming the central role of catering in promoting the Italian tourist offer. There is moderate optimism among entrepreneurs in the sector: the balance between those who foresee a better Christmas and those who fear a drop is decidedly positive (+30%).

"Christmas represents a moment of reflection and rediscovered serenity for many families, an occasion to get together, share and feel closer - says Lino Enrico Stoppani, president of Fipe-Confcommercio -. In a period marked by great uncertainty, linked both to international conflicts and economic uncertainties, food and catering are confirmed as instruments of conviviality and comfort. However, we must not forget that behind these moments of joy there are hundreds of thousands of catering professionals who will work even during the festive period to make it all possible. Our thanks go to them, because they represent the beating heart of Italian tradition and of Christmas itself'.