Venus Wafers is modernizing food manufacturing with automation to boost efficiency, enhance safety, and maintain product quality—all while investing in its workforce and long-standing legacy.
At the recent Summer Fancy Food Show, industry leaders discussed the promising future for specialty food makers. Despite economic headwinds, consumers are expected to largely increase or maintain their consumption in many key categories.
Facing record-high beef prices, restaurants are reworking menus and investing in vertical supply chains to stay afloat. Some are rebranding leaner protein choices as “wellness-driven,” while giants like Walmart cut out the middleman entirely.
US Foods is eyeing a blockbuster merger with Performance Food Group, aiming to dominate the independent restaurant channel and outpace Sysco. But with steep costs and FTC hurdles, the deal’s anything but a sure thing.
Cracker Barrel is attempting to modernize its brand with sleeker decor, streamlined retail, and booze on the menu. CEO Julie Felss Masino faces the challenge of evolution without eroding identity.
