FI Fast Break audio news: Jan. 14, 2025

The latest FI Fast Break news podcast examines the so-called “burger boom” that has hit chain restaurants’ menus.

In other food industry news, Walmart is expanding its drone delivery services to 150 locations across the U.S. through its partnership with Wing. “By expanding drone delivery to new major metro areas, we are helping more customers solve for their last-minute needs faster than ever before,” said Greg Cathey, SVP of digital fulfillment transformation at Walmart, in a statement. Full Story

Meanwhile, Target is muscling into Whole Foods territory with a major wellness expansion, betting that affordable, better‑for‑you goods can revive slipping sales. But with health pushes from Walmart and Amazon underway, the retailer’s path to growth remains anything but simple. FI Focus

Elsewhere, ‘SenseMaxxing,’ i.e. embracing experiential intensity, and ‘palate promiscuity,’ combining multiple global flavors and ingredients into one meal, are among the 2026 breakout trends identified by Specialty Food Association. “SenseMaxxing is the consumer’s quiet rebellion against sameness,” said Kevin Ryan, founder & CEO of Malachite Strategy and SFA trend partner, in a statement. Full Story 

 And finally, U.S. manufacturing activity declined in Dec. for a 10th consecutive month, with the ISM Manufacturing PMI dipping to 47.9 – the lowest reading of 2025. Of the six largest manufacturing sectors, only Computer & Electronic Products expanded, with 85% of manufacturing GDP reporting contraction, reported Food Manufacturing. Full Story