Weekly Roundup – Week of 11.04.24
November 8, 2024
Your weekly serving of food and beverage insights and industry news – all curated by our team of strategists and food enthusiasts:
Is Foodservice Primed For a Year of Growth?
As 2024 brings renewed optimism to the U.S. restaurant industry, independent operators are finding stability and growth opportunities after years of economic challenges. According to a recent report from Toast, around 63% of restaurant leaders saw profit acceleration this year, and many are optimistic about the road ahead. The 2024 Voice of the Restaurant Industry Survey highlights this sentiment, with stakeholders reporting improved resilience, strategic cost-saving measures, and interest in AI to streamline operations and enhance customer experience. With AI integration set to help optimize menus and pricing, a quarter of restaurants are considering expansion within the next six months—positioning the industry for what could be a strong year of growth. Read More
Adapting to the Evolving C-Store Consumer
In today’s fast-paced retail world, understanding the evolving consumer is more critical than ever. How can businesses effectively identify and address these shifting needs? In this insightful video, The Food Institute CEO Brian Choi sits down with Acosta Group’s Darian Pickett to explore strategies for navigating consumer changes and the advantages of an end-to-end approach for brands both big and small in the convenience store space. Watch now
IFIC Survey Reveals American Attitudes Toward Sweeteners
New research from the International Food Information Council (IFIC) sheds light on how Americans perceive low- and no-calorie sweeteners amid shifting global health recommendations. The 2024 IFIC survey found that while some Americans have adjusted their sweetener habits, many still favor caloric “natural” options like honey and brown sugar. Conflicting international guidance on sweeteners, particularly from 2023 World Health Organization reports, sparked curiosity yet had minimal impact on U.S. consumption trends. Notably, many Americans choose to conduct their own research on sweetener safety rather than relying solely on health professionals. This underscores a need for clear, consistent guidance to help consumers make informed decisions about sweetener use. Find All Survey Insights Here
Filipino Flavors on the Rise, Driving By Gen Z
Filipino cuisine is experiencing a surge in popularity in the U.S., particularly among Gen Z consumers, according to recent Tastewise research. Driven by the visibility of the Filipino-American community and amplified by social media, interest in Filipino dishes has grown by 50% in the past year. Known for its rich, diverse flavors and affordability, Filipino food appeals to young consumers looking for bold and budget-friendly options. Signature dishes like kare kare, adobo, and lumpia are gaining traction, blending traditional recipes with modern twists. As Filipino-American chefs and influencers continue to highlight this unique culinary fusion, the appetite for Filipino flavors is expected to keep expanding. Read Article
Soft Drinks Appeal To Budget-Minded Shoppers
According to a Fast Company article, inflation is causing a surprising trend: soda is making a comeback. With rising costs for other treats, consumers are turning to budget-friendly options like a $2 bottle of soda compared to a pricier bag of chips. This shift reverses a long decline in soda consumption due to health concerns. The surge is even stronger for sugar-free options like Coke Zero, reflecting a desire for both affordability and perceived health benefits. This trend helps Dr Pepper overtake Pepsi as the second most popular soda, highlighting the power of price in a competitive market. Read Story
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