Weekly Roundup – Week of 1.30.2023
February 3, 2023
This week’s roundup highlights the latest food and beverage-related news across foodservice and retail, all curated by our team of strategists and food enthusiasts:
4 Reasons Candy Sales Will Sweeten At C-stores During 2023
C-store Dive reviewed candy sales within convenience stores and uncovered a few key motivators as to why consumers indulge in confectionary purchases, and industry experts weigh in on predictions for the year. “The convenience channel is closing in on grocery as the top channel to buy candy,” said Anne-Marie Roerink, principal of 210 Analytics, a marketing research firm focused on food retailing. One reason for growth can be linked to consumers shifting to more snacking occasions. Acosta reported that “25% of Americans say they are snacking more, and oftentimes, candy is used as a snack or bought in tandem with other snack products.” Roerink also noted that millennials are driving candy sales, indexing above any other demographic on shopping at c-stores. And, candy innovations in flavors and textures are helping boost impulse buys, too. While supply chain issues may flatten candy sales early in the year, experts say sales will sweeten again in Q3 and beyond. See All Four.
The NAFEM Show Inspires Foodservice Success Once Again
#NAFEM2023 is the only show 100 percent dedicated to equipment and supply solutions to move foodservice business forward. Off to an impressive start, attendees are connecting with industry-leading manufacturers, dealers, distributors, and operators while experiencing cutting-edge products and engaging educational opportunities. Exhibitors and attendees have also taken advantage of networking events off the show floor such as the initial Kick-Off party and The NAFEM Party hosted Thursday night. The show’s General Manager, Deirdre Flynn, offers, “It’s one of the most efficient ways to discover what’s trending today. Be inspired and hear new ideas that can transform the way you operate today – and in the future.” Learn More.
Plant-Based Meal Kit Delivery Service Is Taking Root
According to a recent report by Adroit Market Research, the global vegan meal kit delivery service market is expected to reach $62.3 billion (USD) by 2029, growing at an average compound rate of 16.6% during the forecast period, as cited within The Food Institute article. Increased frequency of Americans eating more plant-forward foods, opportunities for personalization and rewards programs, and the overarching convenience attributes of pre-made meals and front-door delivery are all contributors to the growing success of vegan meal kit delivery services. Read Article.
FDA Announces Plan To Develop Front-of-Package Label Standards
In an effort to create a standardized, science-based scheme for front-of-package labeling, the FDA looks to conduct a controlled study with 3,000 U.S. adults populating a 15-minute, web-based questionnaire. Once results are collected and vetted, the FDA’s goal is to help consumers identify foods that can be incorporated into their healthy lifestyles with clear package labeling of easily identifiable nutritional callouts and symbols. This front-of-packaging display will be in addition to and complement the Nutritional Facts Label located on packages. Read More.
Restaurant Spotlight: From Fabulous Fine Dining To Healthy Fast Food
As traveling has picked up since the onset of COVID, a couple hand-picked culinary experts announce their top ten up-and-coming restaurants worth the trip. Here are a few highlighted in a recent Forbes article: France’s newest three-star, La Villa Madie, brings scenic views and masterfully balanced flavors. Also topping their list is Silver Lakes Farm in Alazani Valley, Georgia, a farm-restaurant secluded from paved roads, involving a two-drive over mountains and offers “ultra-charming ambiance and grand feasts”. Last but not least, Mélisse, located in Santa Monica, California, services 70 guests within a personalized, comfortable space while they listen to vinyl favorites from artists like the Rolling Stones, Queen, and Aretha Franklin.
Do fast food restaurants offer healthy menu items? Well, sort of. As many of us try incorporating healthy meals during the week, our choices can be limited when we’re on the road or crunched for time. Brit Co. reviewed popular fast-food joints and revealed items that fall under the “healthier side” of their menus.
Here are a few for consideration:
- Chipotle’s Burrito Bowl and Taco Bell’s Taco Bowl
- McDonald’s Egg McMuffin and Starbucks’ Egg & Cheddar Protein Box
- Papa John’s Garden Fresh Pizza
- Wendy’s Avocado Chicken Salad
- Chick-Fil-A Grilled Chicken Nuggets
Operators can leverage consumers’ desire for making better eating choices by promoting their healthier menu items more frequently and targeting busy families on the go.
Stop back every week for news highlights and noteworthy stories.
