Weekly Roundup – Week of 1.27.25

January 31, 2025

Find insights and trending stories surrounding the food and beverage industry this week – all curated by our team of strategists and food enthusiasts:

Egg Prices Soar: A Closer Look at the Surge

Egg prices have become one of the biggest food stories of the year, impacting everyone from farmers and food manufacturers to grocers and everyday consumers. Fast Company’s article indicates that “wholesale costs for large eggs in the Midwest have skyrocketed to $5.57 per dozen—a 150% increase from the previous year—while California prices have soared even higher at $8.85 per dozen.” This surge is largely driven by a severe avian influenza outbreak that has drastically reduced the laying hen population, compounded by ongoing inflationary pressures. As supply struggles to meet demand, businesses across the food supply chain are grappling with higher costs, while shoppers face sticker shock at the grocery store – with no immediate relief in sight. Read More

Featured Podcast: How Technology Will Help Restaurants Flourish

With inflation impacting consumer spending, restaurants must find innovative ways to drive traffic and stay competitive. In The Food Institute Podcast, André Moraes of PepsiCo Digital Lab discusses how experiences, micro-influencers, and the Local Eats program can help restaurants attract and retain customers in 2025. Personalized marketing through digital tools and hyper-local influencer partnerships allows restaurants to connect with their communities and enhance brand loyalty. Moraes emphasizes the importance of experiential dining—whether through exclusive menu items, interactive events, or unique promotions—to create buzz and encourage repeat visits. Listen Now

Key Themes From The Winter Fancy Food Show

The Winter Fancy Food Show in Las Vegas set the tone for 2025, showcasing how authenticity, resilience, and bold innovation are shaping the future of specialty food. Industry leaders emphasized the growing consumer demand for mission-driven brands, premium offerings, and sensorial flavor experiences, despite economic uncertainties. From the rise of “chaos cooking” to the ongoing pickle craze, the show highlighted evolving trends that will define the next wave of food innovation. Read Story

Will Restaurants Score Big This Super Bowl Sunday?

As Super Bowl Sunday approaches on February 9, bars and restaurants have a prime opportunity to attract patrons by offering game-day favorites like hot wings, barbecue, 7-layer dip, and pizza. To stand out, experts suggest crafting menus with shareable items that pair well with beverages, such as nachos and sliders. Offering package deals or pre-sale options can further entice customers. Given that “snack food sales surged by 14.9% during Super Bowl week in 2024”, establishments should prepare for increased demand. Moving forward, food manufacturers have opportunities to connect with operators well ahead of high-volume, traffic-driving events to discuss strategies and menu optimizations. Read Article

Bold Beverage Brands Make Big News

In a significant shift within the retail sector, Costco has announced plans to replace Pepsi products with Coca-Cola offerings in its food courts starting this summer. This decision marks a return to Coca-Cola after the retailer switched to Pepsi in 2013 to maintain the affordability of its renowned $1.50 hot dog combo. The move aligns with broader industry trends, as other chains like Subway and Culver’s have also recently altered their beverage partnerships.

Meanwhile, Starbucks is embarking on a comprehensive strategy to revitalize its in-store experience under the leadership of new CEO Brian Niccol. Changes implemented across approximately 11,000 North American stores include offering ceramic mugs and free refills for in-store customers, reintroducing condiment bars, and bringing back personalized messages on to-go cups. Additionally, the company has revised its policy to require purchases for restroom access and seating, a move that has sparked some controversy. These initiatives aim to reverse declining sales by encouraging customers to linger and increase their in-store purchases.

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