CONSUMER PERCEPTION OF LOCAL PRODUCTS IN URBAN RESTAURANTS
Abstract
This paper aims to analyze how consumers perceive the use of local products in urban restaurants. The main objective is to identify the factors that influence customers’ attitudes and behavior toward local products. The study starts from the idea that, in recent years, interest in sustainable eating and supporting local producers has increased significantly, especially among the urban population. The research was based on a questionnaire applied to a sample of consumers, complemented by discussions with representatives of restaurants that promote local products. The results show that aspects such as authenticity, perceived quality, and trust in the origin of ingredients have a strong impact on purchasing decisions. Moreover, the way restaurants communicate the origin of their products positively influences customers’ perceptions. The conclusions suggest that closer collaboration between restaurants and local producers could contribute to the development of more responsible consumption patterns and the strengthening of the local economy.
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