A new Gallup poll reveals that for the first time since it began tracking views on U.S. industries, Americans have a more negative than positive opinion of the grocery industry. The shift in perception is largely due to rising food prices and growing concerns about food safety. Nearly half of respondents expressed a negative opinion of the grocery sector, with only 33% viewing it positively.This marks a significant change from the typical favorability the grocery industry has enjoyed.
Similarly, the restaurant industry has experienced a dip in favorability, with only 52% of respondents holding a positive view, down nine percentage points from the previous year. The negative perception comes at a time when the cost of dining out has risen, and staffing shortages persist across the hospitality sector. The last time restaurant ratings were this low was during the 2008 financial crisis.