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Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Are you brown bagging it more?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
CNBC recently reported that with budgets tighter than ever, more people are bringing their lunch to work instead of going out to eat or buying from a cafeteria or takeout.
“In terms of value, it’s always going to be cheaper,” says Harry Balzer, an analyst at market researcher NPD Group. “Besides saving money, consumers are looking for convenience,” Balzer adds.
I’ve always been a “self-packer.” In fact, my husband and kids are too. It gives us control over what we eat. Bringing my own food lets me vary what I’m having depending on my mood (or what we had for dinner the night before). Sometimes it’s a sandwich, other times leftovers or in a pinch I’ll just throw in some hummus from the fridge and a pita. For me, there’s a sense of security of knowing I’ll be eating something I like instead of being dependent on what the cafeteria is serving that day or what will be left by the time I get there.
Also, being able to eat when I want, where I want, instead of having to go out foraging for food saves time, which face it, always seems tight these days.
On the other hand, I have friends who want the break. They need to be able to get up and get out of the office to make it through the day. Having the excuse of going out for food provides that. Others I know, especially my single friends, often make lunch their main meal and treat themselves to something really yummy.
What about you? Do you brown bag it or is buying lunch a must for you? Have recent financial situations influenced your decision?
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