Tag: Foodservice

Executive Chef: Latin Flavor Explosion Has Only Just Begun

Twin Peaks’ executive chef predicts spicy flavors will continue to dominate menus, as consumers increasingly crave regional dishes from Latin America, like birria tacos. Now, more than ever, diners are embracing authentic cuisine.

AI and Independent Restaurants: Experts Share Tips, Predictions

Yum Brands’ new AI platform, Byte by Yum, illustrates the potential of proprietary tech for QSR giants, but independent restaurants can also leverage similar, customizable platforms. Experts advise starting small with AI for specific tasks and monitoring its outputs closely to ensure that it enhances efficiency.

The Specialty Shift: Health, Premiumization, Value Will Shape 2025

The demand for better-for-you products is driving shifts across the food industry, prompting demands for premium ingredients and transparent messaging. Consumers are also embracing bold flavors, premiumization, and redefined notions of value, as noted in the 2025 Specialty Food Industry Outlook Report, which FI co-authored.

Baily Foods’ Secret to Authentic Asian Cuisine

Innova Market Insights recently noted that two in three consumers are open to trying new international food, with Asian cuisines ranking second most popular for meals (after the consumer’s local cuisine). And, according to a …

Specialty Food Spotlight: Sampling Year Ahead With Winter Fancy Food Show

The quest to lower one’s biological age, which reflects physiological health rather than years lived, could soon reshape the health and wellness landscape, driven by advancements in aging research. The F&B industry has a unique opportunity to innovate products that support longevity.

3 Key Takeaways From NRF 2025 – Retail’s Big Show

At the recent Retail’s Big Show event by the NRF, technology took center stage, showing the need for businesses to transform their operations with a digital future in mind. Here’s a look at three themes slated to take over retail in the new year.

Why You Need The 2025 Spirit Gas Grill

SPONSORED CONTENT What does Weber have in store for 2025? The company spoke with The Food Institute about its new 2025 SPIRIT gas grill line. Featuring Weber's proprietary Boost Burners, a snap-jet ignition system, an ...

GLP-1 Drugs’ Ripple Effects, Circana’s Tips for Adapting to Them

The rapid adoption of weight-loss drugs is reshaping purchasing habits. Circana experts highlight opportunities for brands to align with GLP-1 users’ goals by offering tailored, portion-controlled products and leveraging personalized marketing strategies to capture this evolving market.

BREAKING: Panera CEO Steps Down

Panera CEO Jose Alberto Dueñas stepped down from his role as CEO today, with current CFO Paul Carbone taking his place until a permanent position holder is found. What could this mean for the future of the chain?

Driving Profit with the Better-for-You Shopper

The better-for-you shopper has more to spend on groceries every month, attracting grocers and brands to invest in the market. These shoppers are worth an estimated $285 billion each year.

Phygital Prowess: 2025’s Recipe for Restaurant Success

As restaurants compete in an increasingly “phygital” world, blending digital and physical experiences is key to meeting consumer expectations in 2025. Restaurant-tech company Tillster expects curbside pickup to ramp up, too.

What’s Ahead in 2025?

2024 was marked yet again by challenges as inflation, geopolitical instability, the growth of artificial intelligence, severe weather events, and more all impacted the food industry during the year. But with a new administration and ...

Subway Pivots as it Seeks to Get Back on Track

Subway recently scrapped its latest ambitious 6-inch Meal Deal after it failed to meet expectations. Is the company’s latest expansion strategy enough to give it solid footing?

FI Spotlight: What You Need to Know About CES 2025

Step into the future of food service at CES 2025, where cutting-edge tech exhibitions showcase the latest innovations. Let's dive into what's changing at the upcoming show and the top themes in this exciting FI ...

Coffee Omakase, Flights Capture Consumer Interest

A recent Trend Tracker report from Yelp found that “coffee omakase” enjoyed a shocking 5,173% rise in searches between Sept. ’23-’24. What’s behind this surge in interest?

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Cava’s Secret Sauce: The QSR Is So Hot Right Now

The latest financial data shows Cava is enjoying tremendous success, outpacing the fast-casual dining segment and sustaining jaw-dropping growth. Some of this success is likely thanks to its Gen Z engagement strategy.

Why End-to-End Solutions are Key for C-Store Success

SPONSORED CONTENT When it comes to retail, it's all about the consumer. How has the consumer evolved, and how can businesses properly identify and address these changing needs? What strategy is best for each company? ...

Restaurant Operators Optimistic About Year Ahead

Independent restaurant operators are optimistic as they look ahead to 2025, with 63% reporting profit growth and a focus on cost management over consumer price hikes, according to a new survey. The industry anticipates further expansion, too.

Data-Driven Dining: Restaurant Insights for 2025

Amid inflationary headwinds and fluctuating consumer demand, restaurant operators are facing difficult times. What are consumers looking for when they eat out, and what operators are successfully navigating the current climate? The Food Institute hosted …

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.

FI Spotlight: Bringing A Restaurant Back To Life

Since 1966, Steak & Ale was a beloved restaurant chain, known for its tableside service and its affordability, enabling patrons to treat themselves to dining outside of the home, once known as an unattainable luxury. ...