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Media centre /
Press releasePOSH RESTAURANTS FALL OUT OF FAVOUR WITH 'RESERVED' BRITS20 August 2003Most prefer an old favourite when eating a celebratory meal We might enjoy a takeaway every weekend, but cut-price convenience cuisine is definitely off the menu when it comes to celebrating a financial windfall with friends and family, according to research by National Savings and Investments. A reflection of the reserved national character, NS&I discovered that flashy restaurants are falling out of favour when it comes to pushing the boat out in celebration. Nearly half of us (46%) would rather flash our cash in a tried and tested local restaurant. Research revealed that an upturn in finances would lead to an outbreak of generosity among the British. A third (33%) of those questioned said that money would be no object when paying for a whiz-bang celebration meal for friends and family at a restaurant, and just over a quarter (26%) would spend between £40 and £79 per head. And we may watch cookery programmes in our millions, but hardly any of us (3%) would think of donning an apron and preparing home-cooked treats to celebrate with friends and family. While Indian and Chinese dishes are the most popular among British diners, nearly half (47%) said they were most likely to celebrate an increase in personal wealth with the food of our continental cousins (Italian, French or Spanish). What does it all mean? Psychologist Donna Dawson said, "Sharing food is a symbolic way to share the good fortune, a bonding experience harking back to our early ancestors. And eating out means that the organiser doesn't have to do any work! "The reason we tend to choose a tried and tested, familiar restaurant is not because we are cheap or unadventurous, but because we know what to expect at a time when we want to increase face, not lose it. "However, there are some personality differences: while 'flamboyant' personalities may take a chance on less familiar food in a more expensive restaurant in order to boost their social image, those with 'practical' personalities will spend just as much of their windfall on a modest certainty." Gill Cattanach, NS&I commercial director said, "Most people want to celebrate a financial windfall with nearest and dearest, but once the party is over thoughts turn to the straightforward and secure investment of their money. That's where National Savings and Investments comes in. We offer 100% risk-free investments and, with Premium Bonds, you also get the element of fun that comes with the chance of winning regular tax free prizes or the £1 million jackpot. "Each month, people are celebrating all over the UK as National Savings and Investments pays out around 700,000 Premium Bond prizes worth over £35 million." Ends Notes to EditorsResearch conducted by National Savings and Investments in July 2003. Since the first draw in 1957, ERNIE has awarded over 103 million prizes worth £6.61 billion. Prizes range from £50 to £1million. 14,005 prizes £1,000 - £1million were paid out August 2002 - August 2003. Media enquiries Further information on National Savings and Investments (NS&I), including press releases and product information, is available on the website at www.nsandi.com. You can also contact the NS&I Media Team. NS&I has a number of spokespeople available for interviews and our experienced radio team is available via our ISDN line: 020 7602 4522.
Media team The numbers below are for media use only. Customers wishing to contact NS&I can find details here.
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