Weekly Roundup – Week of 3.16.26
March 20, 2026
From mastering e-commerce to March Madness moments at restaurants, read this week’s hottest stories – all curated by our team of strategists and food enthusiasts:
Building Tech Trust in an Era of Skepticism
Consumers are hitting a breaking point with digital overload, and it’s showing up in how they choose where to eat. More than ever, people are craving real, human experiences over automated ones. For operators, that’s a signal of connection beating convenience. In 2026, the brands that float to the top won’t just rely on apps and promos. They’ll lean into storytelling, personality, and the people behind the brand to build lasting loyalty. Read More
Mastering the E-Commerce Maze for CPG Growth
Growing a CPG brand today is more than just getting online. Brands need to stand out once they’re there. With rising acquisition costs and endless competition, the focus is pivoting to subscriptions, personalization, and building real brand stickiness. E-commerce growth will rely on earning repeatable placement in the cart and not just a one-time click order. Read Article
March Madness Is a Win, Even If Your Team Isn’t
March Madness isn’t just a big moment for basketball; it’s a big moment for restaurants, too. New research shows that traffic lifts during the tournament aren’t limited to sports bars or host cities. Operators across the board see a boost. The takeaway? You don’t need a perfect bracket (or even a TV wall) to benefit, just the right mix of occasion-driven offers, convenience, and group-friendly experiences. Read Story
Canned Caffeine and Premium Pours: The New Beverage Hierarchy
The way consumers get their caffeine is changing fast. Traditional coffee is slipping, while energy drinks and premium, café-style options are gaining ground. It’s a mix of convenience and treat-worthy indulgence. Think grab-and-go for the daily boost, and upgraded drinks when it’s worth it. This opens the door for retailers to rethink shelf space and offer less basic, more premium and high-performing options. Learn More
Why Nestlé Is Going All-In on Frozen
Frozen food is having a cool moment. And, Nestlé is betting big that it’s just getting started. The company sees the category as a major growth driver, thanks to its mix of convenience, value, and evolving consumer needs. From high-protein meals to more premium options, frozen is no longer just a backup plan for food brands. It’s becoming a strategic centerpiece for how big brands stay relevant and profitable moving forward. Read On
Don’t miss a roundup. We publish the week’s top food and beverage stories every Friday.
