Current and "Emerging" Trends in Foodservice (Back Of The House)

Sustainability:

Sustainability has become a major trend in the foodservice industry. As more consumers wish to know that the environment is being considered, this is in their food choices, so restaurants have begun to opt for eco-friendly practices . These efforts include reducing food waste, using locally and ethically sourced ingredients, using compostable or reusable packaging, and equipping themselves with energy-efficient equipment.

Plant-Based Options:

Undoubtedly, the demand for plant-based foods has been increasing in recent years due to increased vegetarian and vegan diets . Therefore, many restaurants choose to diversify their menus by offering plant-based burgers, tofu-based main courses, vegetable-prioritized bowls, and other items. This trend is driven by concerns about health and the environment, as well as a growing consumer interest in meat alterative, not only vegetarians but also meat-eaters.

Online Ordering and Delivery:

Not only the Covid-19 pandemic showed the importance of online ordering and delivery services market. Nowadays, they have become a huge part of the relationship between the consumer and the restaurant, increasing business revenue . Thus, more restaurants are investing in online ordering systems and adjusting their menus for delivery services to address the trend and meet demand, which, on the one hand, will preserve the trend. On the other hand, it devalues it, depriving it of the charm and convenience of newness.

Ghost Kitchens:

Ghost kitchens are commercial facilities where food is prepared to be delivered or taken away; there are no diners in them . Therefore, for restaurants, such kitchens have become efficient because they do not require a physical location and spend their time working on output alone. Furthermore, ghost kitchens allow restaurants to experiment with new concepts, reach new markets, and reduce production costs.

Technology Integration:

Technological developments in many areas, including foodservice . As restaurants use tools to streamline operation, improve customer experience, and collect data to enhance marketing, the trend becomes: restaurants integrate technology. An example could be developing mobile applications for ordering or a client value system based on the history of past orders.

These are just a few of the trends of the current situation in the foodservice industry. As the consumer is the final indicator of analysis, it is necessary for the restaurant businesses to adapt better to the demand.