Weekly Roundup – Week of 4.14.25
April 18, 2025
From teen trends to smart tech in C-Stores, we cover the latest F&B stories this week – all curated by our team of strategists and food enthusiasts:
Teen Spending Trends: Crunchy Snacks, Influencer Impact, and Digital Dominance
A recent survey by Piper Sandler reveals that U.S. teens are spending more in 2025, with an average annual expenditure of $2,388. Food remains a significant priority, especially among male teens, who allocate 23% of their spending to it. Snack preferences are led by brands like Goldfish, Lays, and Cheez-It, while fast-food favorites include Chick-fil-A and Starbucks. Social media continues to influence teen choices, with TikTok being the preferred platform for 47% of respondents, followed by Instagram and Snapchat. Influencers such as MrBeast, Alix Earle, and Kai Cenat play a pivotal role in shaping brand perceptions and preferences among this demographic. Food brands that follow trends and partner with key influencers can reach this diverse group of consumers. Learn More
High Delivery Fees & Subscription Costs Shift Consumer Spend To In-store Shopping
Online grocery shopping continues to face key barriers, with high delivery fees and subscription costs deterring 22% and 20% of in-store-only shoppers, respectively. Despite improvements in services like Instacart, consumer frustrations around fees and product availability persist. Inflation adds further complexity, as 69% of consumers report being very or extremely concerned about food prices, prompting a shift toward in-store shopping where many believe they get better deals. Food brands and grocers must address perceptions of value, offer visible private label options online, and enhance transparency to win long-term loyalty. Understanding these shopper priorities will be critical in navigating the next wave of grocery ecommerce. Read More
Elevating Efficiency and Customer Experience In C-stores With Smart Tech
Convenience Stores are embracing smart technology to redefine the shopping experience and streamline operations. Innovations like electronic shelf labels (ESLs) and IoT-enabled smart shelves provide real-time inventory data, reducing stock issues and allowing for dynamic pricing and personalized promotions. Digital signage enhances customer engagement by displaying tailored content, while cloud-based management systems automate pricing updates and improve inventory accuracy, saving time and boosting sales. These technological advancements not only increase operational efficiency but also enhance customer satisfaction, positioning convenience stores for sustained growth in a competitive retail landscape. Read Article
Crunch Is The New “Swicy”
The latest food trend making noise—literally—is all about crunch. Fast Company dives into what’s driving the “crunch-craze” and finds that after a year of chewy gummies and “swicy” (sweet + spicy) flavors, consumers are now craving bold textures that add excitement to every bite. Social mentions of “crunchy” foods are up 13%, and brands are responding with crispy snacks, textured toppings, and even crunchy elements in drinks and desserts. Whole Foods has dubbed crunch the “texture of the moment,” noting its influence beyond snacks and into full meals. The trend is also showing up in plant-based foods and international snacks, adding variety and surprise. For food and beverage brands, texture has become just as important as flavor—offering a new way to deliver comfort, satisfaction, and fun. Read Story
Gen Alpha’s Favorite Brands: A Glimpse into the Future of Consumer Trends
In this week’s episode of The Food Institute Podcast, the spotlight is on Generation Alpha’s evolving brand preferences. Digital platforms like YouTube and Netflix dominate their favorites list, reflecting their deep-rooted digital engagement. Interestingly, McDonald’s stands out as a non-digital brand that continues to resonate with this young cohort. For businesses in the food and beverage sector, understanding these preferences is crucial, as Gen Alpha’s influence on purchasing decisions is growing rapidly. Listen Now
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