Emergence of dark kitchens and factors shaping consumer patronage: a review

Abstract

Due to the dearth of thorough literature reviews, this review compiles information on the evolving concept of dark kitchens. Forty-nine research articles indexed in the Scopus database were gathered for the review. Performance analysis and science mapping were used to track research evolution, map the intellectual structure and identify research gaps through VOSviewer and Biblioshiny. The findings suggest that dark kitchens research arguably began in 2019 and continues to grow steadily. While studies are predominantly collaborative, Cai Ruiying and Leung are the most influential scholars. Most of the studies are from India and the United States, with sub-Saharan Africa underrepresented. The thematic discussions on dark kitchens revolve around technology and sustainability, consumer behaviour, methodological frameworks, labour dynamics and business adaptation during emergencies. Dark kitchens, COVID-19 and purchase decisions are interconnected concepts. The review underscores the importance of continued investigation into this evolving paradigm, especially in sub-Saharan Africa.