Focus Archive

Safety, Productivity Found at Intersection of People and AI

At a recent International Foodservice Distributors Association (IFDA) event, stakeholders considered AI’s industry impact. Topics included supply chain dynamics, tech-enabled safety measures, and the need for in-person connectivity.

From Pests to Plates: Insect Market to Mature

The global edible insect market is slated to grow by $11.42 billion from 2024-28, with the growing food shortage as a contributing factor, as well as the high nutrient density and low rearing cost of insects. However, insects are often perceived as “unhygienic” in many cultures.

Baking Up Success: Why Americans Splurge on Specialty Cookies

U.S. cookie sales are projected to reach $12.48 billion this year, with growth driven by demand for both indulgent treats and healthier, specialty options like gluten-free cookies. The trend reflects consumer demand for cleaner ingredients and allergen-free alternatives.

4 Reasons Fresh Meatless Chicken Nuggets Aren’t Selling

The alternative meat market has struggled across the board in recent years, but some plant-based products are bearing the brunt. Sales of fresh, meatless chicken nuggets have sharply declined by 56.2% in 2024 – but why?

Consumer Behavior Modifying Retail Seasons

The back-to-school shopping season has spread across multiple waves due to shifting consumer behavior. This trend may impact holiday shopping too, with retailers expecting slower sales growth.

Imports Surging Ahead of East, Gulf Port Strike Threat

Retailers have ramped up their merchandise deliveries amid a threatened strike by U.S. dockworkers that could disrupt the imminent holiday shopping season. 45,000 dockworkers are poised to walk out at 36 ports along the East and Gulf coasts following the expiration of the longshoremen’s six-year master contract, which expires on October 1.

Groceries, Healthcare Prove a Winning Retail Combination

A new report from Placer.ai highlights that grocery stores offering in-store healthcare services are seeing increased foot traffic, particularly from higher-income customers. Wellness offerings not only boost store visits but also enhance customer loyalty.

Consumers Double Down on Convenience, Fresh

A new report reveals that 52% of consumers value convenience more than before. Grocers are responding by investing in convenience offerings, but face challenges competing with C-stores.

Pistachios: The Little Green Nut Surging in Popularity

Google trends analysis shows a 60% rise in searches for pistachios since 2019, putting product manufacturers, restaurateurs, and grocers in a unique position to leverage this explosive growth to their advantage.

The Cheat Code: 4 Tips for Marketing to Video Game Fans

Food and beverage brands are tapping into the gamer market with marketing tactics like in-game product placements and creative snack options. Protein-packed and handheld snacks are also on the rise as gamers seek healthier choices.

Advertisement
FI-Home-NEW-2020Gaps
FI-Home-NEW-2020Gaps
Advertisement

The Lunch Line: What’s Driving Higher Costs at QSRs?

Data from the Toast digital restaurant platform show eating out at quick-service restaurants (QSRs) for lunch in the second quarter got more expensive, with prices up more than 4% from last year. And though hourly …

The Shifting Landscape of Grocery Retail: Four Key Trends

Retailers are navigating a complex landscape right now marked by regulatory scrutiny, rising shrinkage, and financially stretched consumers. These pressures are forcing retailers to adapt quickly, according to Supermarket Guru Phil Lempert.

Beyond Religion: The Business Case for Kosher Certification

Kosher certification is trusted by more than 10 million Americans who have a range of dietary requirements from various religious backgrounds. Attaining a kosher certification is easier than you might think – and it can boost a brand’s bottom line.

African Swine Fever Vaccine Rolled out Amid Virus Surge

The Philippines has begun rolling out an unproven African swine fever vaccine produced in Vietnam to try to stem an outbreak of the virus plaguing pig farming across three continents, SciDev.Net reported. ASF is caused …