Consumer Preferences and Consumption Patterns of Dates

Introduction

Scimitar Research undertook a comprehensive study to understand consumer habits, preferences, and perceptions regarding the consumption of dates. This research aimed to gather detailed insights into how end consumers incorporate dates into their diets, their social media influences, and their overall consumption patterns. The study was conducted in multiple phases, targeting different groups of respondents including date users, non-users, and occasional users.

Objective

• Understand Consumer Lifestyle and Consumption Habits: Explore daily routines, vacation habits, dining out preferences, and brand preferences in various product categories.
• Analyze Social Media Usage: Assess the impact of social media platforms and influencers on consumer behavior and food choices.
• Investigate Date Consumption: Gather detailed information on the consumption patterns, preferences, and purchasing behaviors related to dates.
• Identify Needs and Gaps in the Market: Determine the availability and satisfaction with date varieties, and uncover any gaps in the market that could be addressed.
• Understand Barriers for Non-Consumers: Explore reasons behind non-consumption and potential motivators for trying dates.
• Examine Occasional Consumption Patterns: Investigate why some consumers only occasionally consume dates and what might encourage more frequent consumption.

Methodology

The study utilized a structured survey approach with different question sets administered to various respondent groups:

• Lifestyle and Consumption Habits: Administered to all respondents to provide context on their daily routines and preferences.
• Social Media Usage: Assessed across all respondents to understand the influence of digital platforms on food choices.
• Social Media Usage: Assessed across all respondents to understand the influence of digital platforms on food choices.
• Dates Consumption: Targeted at date users to collect detailed information on their consumption patterns, preferences, and purchasing habits.
• Needs & Gaps: Administered to date users to identify market needs and potential product improvements.
• Not Consuming Dates: Focused on non-users to explore reasons for non-consumption and potential motivators.
• Occasional Consumption: Addressed those who consume dates occasionally to understand barriers and opportunities for increased consumption.

Conclusion

The study provided valuable insights into consumer preferences and behaviors related to dates. Key findings include a strong interest in date-based innovations and a need for more variety in the market. Non-consumers showed potential for conversion with targeted marketing and product offerings. The study's results will help guide future product development and marketing strategies for date producers and retailers.