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INSIGHTS & TRENDS
Helping you take action
LEVERAGING THE ‘NEXTGEN CASUAL’ TREND TO ENHANCE CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE
To address today’s consumer dining preferences, a number of operators are utilizing streamlined menus, multiple ordering methods and a more personalized approach—key characteristics of the NextGen Casual restaurant concept that’s gained traction in recent years. The Smokey Bones full-service restaurant chain, for instance, plans to open its first drive-thru this year in Bowling Green, Kentucky. […]
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5 Pork Trends that Can Transform Your Menu—Without Multiplying Costs
In recent months, numerous restaurants have struggled with labor and supply chain constraints. Roughly 70% of operators don’t have enough employees to support consumer demand; and 96% have experienced key food and beverage item shortages—which can make offering a menu that piques customers’ interest challenging. For some, utilizing versatile proteins that can be served during […]
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Despite Challenges, Operators Remain Focused on Quality, Innovation
Survey finds labor and cost issues are biggest obstacles when it comes to menu development Staffing difficulties, supply chain issues and operating costs rank as top concerns among restaurant operators in the current environment. But operators are still focused on quality and innovation, according to a survey by Nation’s Restaurant News and Clemens Food Group. […]
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NAE and Other Premium Claims Matter Now More Than Ever: Here’s Why
The COVID-19 pandemic prompted Americans to make a number of lifestyle changes—including altering what they eat. During the height of the lockdown period, 7 in 10 changed the types of food they were consuming to improve their diet. Some began eating more animal-based protein, which a greater number of consumers said they viewed as healthy […]
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Fire Up the ‘Cue
No culinary preparation is better suited to summer holidays and gatherings than barbecue. It commands the spotlight in May, which is widely recognized as National Barbecue Month and (with Memorial Day weekend) the unofficial start of summer grilling season, but its appeal endures through all months and seasons. Although American consumers can and do fire […]
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