Value, Value, Value: Cash-Strapped Holiday Shoppers Get Creative

As consumers buckle under the weight of financial pressures, this holiday shopping season will look a bit different than its predecessors.

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?

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.

What’s Up with Airline Food? Shake Shack, Delta Partner on Burgers in the Sky

Delta’s latest partnership with Shake Shack has been met with excitement; however, is it enough to shake the airline’s negative in-flight meal image?

7-Eleven Pilots Food-Centric Design Amidst Headwinds

7-Eleven parent Seven & i Holdings Co. recently outlined plans to update its domestic footprint with improved food experiences. This could be a winning strategy for a business that has faced headwinds of late.

Makers Eye Precision Fermentation, Alt Protein for Solutions

With the world’s population expected to reach nearly 10 billion by 2050, manufacturers are looking for unique solutions to satisfy the growing consumer base’s nutrient-dense needs. Can precision fermentation be the key?

Hops Crossing: Functional Beer, Candy Brews to Trend in 2025

Beer trends in 2025 include accelerated interest in saccharine brews as well as better-for-you beverages, according to a recent report. The Food Institute takes a look at some of the forces motivating these shifts.

3 Key Takeaways from Gulfood Manufacturing 2024

The Food Institute attended this week’s Gulfood Manufacturing 2024 event in Dubai and noted that the gathering highlighted advancements in sustainable practices, alt-protein, and tech-enabled ingredients. It also illustrated the industry’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

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.

Holiday Shopping Spread: Christmas Comes Early

A new report finds that holiday cheer has surpassed the final weeks of the year. Instead, shoppers and retailers are getting an early jumpstart on the season.

Next-Gen Retail Media is Here for Grocery Delivery Platforms

Instacart, DoorDash, and Just Eat Takeaway have all entered the retail media space and are continuing to deliver on unique advertising capabilities for CPGs and retailers.

Modern ‘Boss Mindset’ Entails Empowering Employees, Leaders Say

At a recent Hugo Boss event, The Food Institute’s Brian Choi and Jump Rope Innovation’s Robyn Carter discussed effective modern leadership and the state of the food industry today.

Amazon’s Latest Pilot Could Be a Masterclass in Unified Shopping

Amazon recently debuted its latest brick-and-mortar format in Chicago: Amazon Grocery. Its strategy, however, may take business from Whole Foods or motivate shoppers to stay in its ecosystem.

Bobagate: Actor Simu Liu Sparks Controversy Over RTD Boba Tea

On a recently aired episode of Dragons’ Den, actor Simu Liu accused a better-for-you boba brand of cultural appropriation, incites online controversy in a movement dubbed “bobagate.”

Consumer Angst Necessitates F&B Industry Action

Roughly 86% of shoppers report consumer frustration when shopping for groceries. A new report sheds light on the woes that plague the shopper journey, while also offering advice to manufacturers and retailers looking to retain their consumer base.

3 Key Takeaways from Fresh Thyme Market’s 2025 Food Trends

Fresh Thyme Market recently revealed its 2025 food trends aimed at identifying the consumer preferences shaping Midwestern palates in the coming year. Mangoes, spicy foods, and non-alcoholic beverages are all slated to grain ground.

U.S. Water Quality a Growing Concern for Foodservice

Although tap water in the U.S. is generally safe to drink, Americans don’t trust it: one report found only 41% of customers perceive their water safe. Consumers remain weary of water sources, leaving restaurant operators in a tough spot.

The Future of Grocery Shopping is Omnichannel

Food and beverage stakeholders already know that to guarantee a sale, one must meet consumers where they are. Today, that’s online. Nearly 70% of consumers purchase groceries online in some capacity, according to recent data …

CPGs Bet Big on Plant-Based Packaging

Plant-based packaging is gaining momentum, prompted by environmental concerns, regulatory pressures, and corporate sustainability efforts. With a projected 9% CAGR in the plant-based packaging market expected through 2032, companies like Califia Farms are innovating with recyclable solutions.

McDonald’s Debuts Chicken Big Mac

McDonald’s is launching a Chicken Big Mac, a limited-time twist on its iconic Big Mac, starting October 10 at participating U.S. locations. The chain piloted the sandwich at an LA pop-up and is promoting it through a social media-driven campaign.

Wellness, Emotions Fuel Snacking Trends

In just a few years, consumer snacking has evolved, driven by a greater focus on nutrient density and one’s emotional connection to food. This shift has accelerated the demand for healthier snacks that offer both pleasure and functionality.

Sugar Rush: Consumers Kick Off Halloween Shopping Earlier Than Ever

Halloween spending is expected to hit $11.6 billion this year, with nearly half of shoppers starting early to embrace the season. Confectionery sales are anticipated to grow by 3-5%.

On-the-Go Brews Usher in New Era of Coffee Consumption

With National Coffee Day (Sept. 29) nearly upon us, specialty coffee maintains a 13-year high. As a result, brands continue to flock to the category for opportunities.

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.

From Urban Markets to Suburban Sprawl: Grocers Testing New Territories

Across the U.S., national retailers are expanding both in their communities and testing new markets. Trader Joe’s alone expects 22 additional locations to open by year’s end.

Private Label: an Increasingly Effective Retail Lever

Private label represents roughly 19% of the market. It offers brands and retailers an opportunity to deliver on price, taste, and quality.

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.

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.

3 Key Takeaways From Plant Based World Expo 2024

Innovation was rife at this year’s Plant Based World Expo; on display were breakout processes to better deliver on taste, texture, and even price.

7-Eleven Parent Clarifies Buyout Rejection

7-Eleven owner Seven & i Holdings Co. commented on its rejection of Alimentation Couche-Tard’s proposal to acquire the company.