Australia still hasn't joined the other countries in their shift for a healthier lifestyle despite alarming results provided by researchers. In a study published by the Guardian, the obesity crisis in Australia is worse than it seems. New evidence shows that 40% of adults are dangerously obese.
Moreover, a recent study conducted by the government-backed Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO) has provided proof of this shocking phenomenon. It was found out that the average Australian consumes three times more junk food than the recommended daily allowance. "This type of food is no longer just an indulgence, it's becoming mainstream and Australians are eating it each and every day", Manny Noakes, CSIRO Research Director was quoted saying.
Thus, Australia has become a perfect testing ground for fast food chains like Domino's Pizza, McDonald's, KFC and Pizza Hut. These fast food chains may have experienced a decline in sales in some other countries, but not in Australia. Australia has about 23 million consumers for fast food. Their demographic characteristics and Australia's location are perfect combination for fast food chains to test their food innovations and create a clear analysis before launching it to the main market. "Opportunity costs are low, global competitors don't closely track the market, so you can camouflage what you're doing," said Rohan Miller, a business expert at Sydney University.
So far, the market has positive response to these new ideas and technology. McDonald's Australia has been beating down the U.S. sales for ten consecutive months after launching the DIY burger menu service, home delivery and cafe redesigns. The U.S. giant now has 750 stores around Australia with touch screen kiosks allowing customers to customize their burgers. The "create your taste" idea has been one of the most significant innovations of the burger chain since the introduction of Mc Cafe. KFC Australia has been consistently increasing sales after launching mobile ordering apps and social media marketing. Its parent company "YUM!" who also owns Pizza Hut and Taco Bell have been increasing sales around 3% each year, becoming the second most popular fast food chain next to McDonald's. KFC recently opened its gourmet trial store last February, a concept they intend to roll out nationally if it proves successful.
Australians can expect to be subjected to even more tests as fast food companies find ways to provide variations from their usual offerings.
