Consumers: Dining out on confidence

1997 will be the year of eating out, according to research by a national business consultancy. Retail Directions believes that growing consumer confidence, combined with money from building society flotations, will filter into the leisure sectors of the economy, bringing an increase in restaurant and pub trade.

"The money coming from the building society flotations during 1997 will be spent by the family on leisure pursuits and not on household items or improvements, as has always happened in the past," said managing director Robert Eldridge.

The company said 1997 would also see a lessening of enthusiasm for supermarket loyalty cards, unless consumers saw more meaningful benefits.