Food service industry news

Here are some recent news articles and trends in the food service industry:

Trends:

  1. Plant-based eating: Plant-based diets are on the rise, with 39% of consumers saying they're eating more plant-based meals than they were a year ago. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
  2. Delivery and takeout: The demand for delivery and takeout is increasing, with 60% of consumers saying they're more likely to order from a restaurant that offers delivery or takeout. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
  3. Sustainability: Consumers are increasingly concerned about the environmental impact of food production and disposal, leading to a growing demand for sustainable practices in the food service industry. (Source: Food Marketing Institute)
  4. Technology: Technology is playing a bigger role in the food service industry, with restaurants using apps, online ordering, and digital menus to improve customer experience and streamline operations. (Source: Nation's Restaurant News)

News:

  1. McDonald's to test plant-based McRib: McDonald's is testing a plant-based version of its popular McRib sandwich in several locations. (Source: CNN)
  2. Starbucks to offer plant-based whipped cream: Starbucks is introducing a plant-based whipped cream option made from coconut oil and almond milk. (Source: Food Business News)
  3. Domino's to offer autonomous delivery: Domino's is partnering with Nuro, a robotics company, to offer autonomous delivery in several cities. (Source: The Verge)
  4. Wendy's to test self-service kiosks: Wendy's is testing self-service kiosks in several locations to improve customer experience and reduce labor costs. (Source: Nation's Restaurant News)
  5. Chipotle to offer digital ordering: Chipotle is rolling out digital ordering and self-service kiosks in several locations to improve customer experience and increase sales. (Source: QSR Magazine)
  6. Panera Bread to eliminate artificial preservatives: Panera Bread is committing to eliminate artificial preservatives, sweeteners, and flavors from its menu by the end of 2020. (Source: Food Business News)
  7. Dunkin' to test mobile ordering: Dunkin' is testing mobile ordering and self-service kiosks in several locations to improve customer experience and increase sales. (Source: Nation's Restaurant News)

Industry Insights:

  1. Restaurant sales growth slows: Restaurant sales growth has slowed in recent months, with same-store sales growth declining to 2.5% in June. (Source: National Restaurant Association)
  2. Food prices rising: Food prices are rising due to increased costs of ingredients, labor, and transportation, leading to higher menu prices and profit margins. (Source: Food Marketing Institute)
  3. Labor shortages: Labor shortages are a growing concern in the food service industry, with many restaurants struggling to find and retain qualified employees. (Source: Nation's Restaurant News)

I hope this information is helpful!