Historically, this group was an important HVP consumer, but with the economic decline of the 1985-93 and the devaluation, they sharply cut back consumption, especially of imported goods. The 150,000 member Lebanese population is an important middle and upper-middle income market with certain of their own tastes and preferences. They tend to dominate the retail and wholesale trade and therefore have a strong influence on importing and marketing decisions. Generally, middle and high income groups own refrigerators and, to a lesser extent, microwaves. However, microwave ready foods are not popular because of the availability of cheap household labor.
Most women are self-employed and combine household and work activities.
Women's buying decisions are centered on basic necessities. Decisions on high value products are generally made by men, except among the Lebanese and expatriate groups. Because of the budget constraints faced by the family, dining out is not common. Recently, Lebanese fast food outlets, which serve hamburgers, hot dogs, pizza and Lebanese snack foods, have become popular among the middle income group. High class restaurants are frequented at night and during the weekends by high income and some upper middle income groups.