Weekly Roundup – Week of 3.18.24

March 22, 2024

Dive into the latest trends and news stories related to foodservice, retail, and consumers – all curated by our team of strategists and food enthusiasts:

Pizza! Pizza! Pizza!

Datassential released its 2024 Pizza Keynote report, packed with invaluable insights to help food ingredient brands and operators cater to the desires of today’s pizza lovers. Whether it is wholesome ingredients, decadent toppings, or innovative crusts, pizza lovers want it all and refuse to compromise. And they are not just settling for less – they’re aiming to devour as much, if not more, pizza this year, both at home and away. Per the trends, one thing operators must never skimp on is the quality of their toppings. Discover all the savory details, Here!

Effective Storytelling Increases Loyalty and Purchases

Brands that master the art of storytelling can increase the perceived value of their products by up to twenty times, according to a Grocery Dive article. This isn’t just about selling a product; it’s about forging authentic connections with consumers, fostering loyalty, and driving repeat purchases. In today’s market, consumers crave more than great taste – they yearn for products with compelling narratives that resonate with their values and aspirations. POS signage, social media posts, and employee training are a few effective ways to bring brand stories to the forefront. Read Article.

Rethinking Protein

A recent study on protein trends in 2024 sheds light on the dynamic shifts in consumer preferences, offering valuable insights for food businesses looking to adapt to the evolving market. This comprehensive report not only provides a glimpse into what consumers desire and require but also delves into broader cultural trends such as changing family dynamics and shifting perceptions of value. From redefining the notion of “less is more” to understanding the evolving concept of value, the study equips food manufacturers, foodservice operators, and retailers with actionable strategies to cater to fluctuating budgets and evolving tastes. Read More.

Legacy Chains Make Strategic Business Shifts

Legacy chains are finding themselves at a crossroads, necessitating strategic business resets to stay ahead of the curve. The relentless cycle of openings and closings, innovation, and tradition, reflects the industry’s scramble to adapt to the fast-paced demands of today’s consumers and the looming challenges and opportunities of tomorrow’s market. Both Panera and Starbucks are embarking on strategic pivots in their business models. While one is overhauling its core menu, including a shift away from promoting clean ingredients and animal welfare, the other is embracing a journey to reset, renew, and reinvent. Learn More.

Beverages Reign Supreme

The beverage scene is undergoing a fluid transformation, driven by social media influence and functional innovation. A new viral sensation captivating TikTok is the Dirty Soda. This concoction marries traditional soda with a twist, incorporating creamy elements like milk, half-and-half, or nondairy alternatives such as coconut cream, alongside flavor enhancements like lime juice or syrups. Recognizing the soaring popularity of this trend, major chains including Swig’s, Topgolf, Sonic, and Jack in the Box have quickly introduced their iterations of the dirty soda, catering to a growing demand among consumers.

But the innovation does not stop there. Electrolyte-infused beverages a.k.a. Hydration Drinks, once consumed to remedy hangovers, have now emerged as a sought-after staple for athletes and everyday enthusiasts seeking a daily boost. In a fiercely competitive landscape and a market projected to reach nearly $59 billion by 2032, brands are continuously striving to stay relevant and differentiate themselves.

Craving more digestible insights and notable food and beverage news? Make sure to visit our blog weekly to stay in the loop!