Reading, Writing, and Resolving

At the beginning of a new year, and certainly at the dawn of a decade, we have the opportunity to set resolutions, affirmations, dreams, and hypotheses. Beyond soul searching or even speculation, I sink my teeth into literature from across the industry that may offer insight or an edge against competition.

Here’s what I’m reading, so far, in 2020.

Starboard Magazine

Luxury brands are taking to the sea, the air, and the rails in 2020. The relationship between hospitality and transportation is closer than ever before, evoking historic ocean liners and luxury trains in a brand new way. Starboard was born for those in the business of brining style to travel. Issue 3 covers everything from the high seas to outer space. Local restaurateurs LDV Hospitality’s first foray in cruising with Onda by Scarpetta aboard Norwegian’s new Encore vessel is featured alongside visuals for Lufthansa’s Sky Retreat and specifics on the first space hotel from The Gateway Foundation set for completion in 2027. If you’re not already a loyal follower of their sister publications Supper and Sleeper Magazines, I’d suggest that change.

Catalyst by Convene Blog

Coworking will enter a new collaborative phase where landlords and flex providers work together to create the “right” spaces for today’s progressive companies demanding experiences and flexibility. The cream rises to the top and profitability defeats growth for growth’s sake according to Catalyst by Convene. Offering overarching acumen on flexible meeting and event spaces, this blog continues to share unprecedented access to a growing industry ecosystem. Sign up at Convene.com.

Eater

After Eater columnist Brenna Houch scrutinized the many lists, listicles, top-tens, and the like throughout cyberspace, she created the holy grail of hospitality trends for 2020. Here are a few I feel compelled to share with my peers in the equipment and supplies community. 

In 2019, we saw a brave new world while some other, long-simmered trends finally reached critical mass and took-off. Tamper-proof delivery packaging; Reusable containers; Self-serve kiosks; Voice-command ordering; Robots; Ghost kitchens; Tasting menus; Indoor growing chambers; Sustainability; and an overall drive towards wellness.

A few more from their list that we’re elated to see take over in 2020: Track and trace food labeling, guaranteeing food safety in supply chains; Personalized guest experience through technology and artificial intelligence; Chef collaborations; Functional water; Coffee stations; Food Entertainment; More specials and loyalty programs; Delivery kitchens; Zero-waste kitchens, and an overall drive towards pet wellness. Read the full list at Year In Eater.

Color of the Year

It should be no surprise that customers and suppliers will be more discerning than ever in 2020. This applies as much to form as it does function. Following major fashion trends for the new year, we’re seeing an even stronger commitment to the social impact of purchases, an influence of natural materials in design, the beauty of bespoke and personalization, and color blocking. Green will remain, grey will return, and classic blue is the ‘Pantone of the Year’.

My highlights mirror the unwavering pillars of Singer’s commitment to partnership and the reinvention of foodservice consulting. I look forward to the trends yet uncharted that the Roaring Twenties will bring.

Of course, you can see all that this year will have to offer at LMTprovisions.com. We look forward to sharing our 2020 vision with you.

Happy New Year!

Originally published in Total Food Service Magazine, January 2020, Vol. 29, No. 9.