Weekly Roundup – Week of 1.8.24

January 12, 2024

Technology, trends, and fun new foods comprise this week’s roundup of food and beverage-related topics – all curated by our team of strategists and food enthusiasts:

CES 2024 Spotlights Groundbreaking Technologies

A wave of culinary advancements swept through the event, featuring chef-like robots, AI-powered appliances, and an array of high-tech kitchen gadgets that challenge the notion of humans needing to cook or mix drinks themselves. Chef AI displayed its cutting-edge AI-powered one-touch air fryer, promising a new era of effortless cooking. Meanwhile, Bartesian’s cocktail-mixing appliance eliminates the guesswork from bartending, offering a seamless and precise mixology experience. Taking center stage was Artly Coffee’s barista bot replicating the preparation and artistry of a human coffee shop barista. Discover More.

Walmart Set to Revolutionize The Shopping Experience

The retail giant introduced innovative AI-powered technologies geared towards elevating the consumer experience, both in-store and online. Among the notable advancements is a generative AI-powered search feature, promising a seamless and enhanced shopping journey. Rather than searching for multiple items separately, a user will be able to search by categories – think throwing a Fourth of July party or a brunch. Walmart is also expanding its drone delivery service to Texas, marking the sixth state to which customers can benefit from this convenient delivery platform. In addition, to ensure a more efficient and hassle-free shopping process, the company is poised to streamline checkouts at Sam’s Club by eliminating receipt-check lines near exits. Read More.

Technomic Shares Growth Predictions For QSRs

Beverage concepts have been on a steady incline the past two years and Technomic predicts this trend will gain further momentum throughout 2024. The surge is attributed to a growing consumer shift towards indulging in specialty beverages outside their homes as an affordable means of self-treat. In addition, the global insights firm foresees a shift in consumer behavior, indicating a reduced reliance on delivery services in favor of an increased preference for takeout and drive-thru options. Notably, breakfast foodservice is expected to claim a larger share, surpassing traditional lunchtime dining. Find the full forecast, Here.

Six Trends Expected To Shape The FoodBev Industry

From consumers and retailers experiencing price-hike fatigue to reinvigorating the plant-based foods and cultivated meats categories, Food Dive sheds light on key motivations impacting the F&B industry. The article notes, “After two years of price hikes in an attempt to offset surging costs, food manufacturers have less room to increase them again in 2024 — and in some cases will be forced to implement cuts.” Analysts believe the breakfast cereal category will continue to decline due to consumers’ concerns over processed ingredients. Meanwhile, the cultivated meat category wrestles with an enduring challenge—overcoming the negative perception associated with ‘lab-grown’ food and the ongoing need to educate consumers. Learn More.

Food Fanatics Rejoice

Consumers have two new reasons to get excited – the Mochi Donut movement and Cravings Kits.

Mochi donuts are the latest sensation captivating the menus of restaurants and donut shops alike. Seamlessly blending American-style donuts with the distinct flair of Japanese mochi, these donuts are comprised of eight small, pull-apart balls, in a circular shape and come in a variety of flavors. Along with donut and coffee shops, this fun finger food is expected to complement casual dining menus and grab-and-go-type venues.

In addition, Taco Bell at Home introduces the first-ever Crunchwrap Supreme and Chipotle Chicken Quesadilla “Cravings Kits.” Featuring the signature Taco Bell restaurant ingredients, seasonings, and sauces, these kits allow fans to recreate their favorite Taco Bell classics in the comfort of their homes. Alan Kleinerman, Vice President of Disruptive Innovation at The Kraft Heinz Company, expressed excitement, stating that the release of the Cravings Kits aligns with Kraft Heinz’s commitment to leading the future of food.

Stop back every Friday for more weekly roundups of the food and beverage industry’s hottest topics.