Abstract:
This research aimed to (1) compare the decision-making in selecting restaurant services among Thai tourists in Dan Chang District based on demographic characteristics, (2) study the behavior of Thai tourists in using restaurant services in the area, and (3) examine the influence of service marketing mix factors on the decision-making in choosing restaurant services among Thai tourists in Dan Chang District, Suphan Buri Province. This study employed quantitative research methods using questionnaires as a tool to collect data from a sample group comprising 400 Thai tourists who traveled to Dan Chang District and had used restaurant services in the area. The sample was selected through purposive sampling. A pilot test was conducted with 30 respondents. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including mean, standard deviation, F-test (ANOVA), and multiple regression analysis.
The research findings revealed that (1) In comparing the decision-making in choosing restaurant services among Thai tourists, it was found that gender, age, education level, and monthly income significantly influenced differences in their decision-making. (2) The behavior of Thai tourists in using restaurant services showed that most had traveled 23 times. The primary purpose of their trips was leisure and relaxation. Most traveled by private car and typically stayed overnight for 12 nights. They tended to plan and book accommodations in advance. The main channel for finding restaurants was through reviews on social media platforms such as Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram. Most tourists preferred local or traditional restaurants. The most common dining time was during lunch hours. The acceptable price range per person was between 201300 baht, and the main reason for choosing a restaurant was the taste of the food. And (3) The overall service marketing mix significantly influenced the decision-making of Thai tourists in choosing restaurant services. In particular, the components of product, price, and people were statistically significant factors (at the 0.05 level) affecting customer satisfaction and motivation in service selection. In addition, the study revealed that certain demographic characteristicssuch as age, income level, and occupationhad a statistically significant relationship (in terms of differences in mean values) with decision-making in choosing restaurant services. These findings can be applied to develop appropriate service marketing strategies for restaurant businesses in secondary cities, which can enhance competitiveness, increase customer satisfaction, and promote sustainable food tourism in Dan Chang District, Suphan Buri Province.