The ECEP Mid-Year Trends Report identifies meaningful shifts in hospitality expected to stand the test of time By Liese Gardner In today’s dynamic hospitality landscape, trends come and go like the seasons. However, some developments transcend short-lived fads, shaping the industry’s future in profound ways. Released this June, the ECEP Trends Report identifies pivotal … [Read more...] about Six Catering Trends with a Lasting Impact
Spotlight
Preparing to Sell Your Catering Business
Nine steps to take for a successful exit strategy By Dale Vaillancourt You know the catering high you get after a successful event? Even though you’re bone-tired, you arrive home, put your feet up, and celebrate—perhaps with a cocktail—reveling in a job well done. Much like any catered event, your career will end, too. If you want to enjoy that same well-earned … [Read more...] about Preparing to Sell Your Catering Business
Grilling with a Purpose
Operation BBQ Relief serves communities in need with hot meals and helping hands By Sara Perez Webber Stan Hays tells volunteers they’ll “find their ‘why’” when they help people in need through Operation BBQ Relief. “When you hand that meal to somebody, and they literally are in tears thanking you for something as simple as a pulled pork sandwich, when you know … [Read more...] about Grilling with a Purpose
Eco-Friendly Strategies
Steps to ensure your business is serving sustainably By Joy Pouros, Culinary Software Services Embracing sustainability in the foodservice industry isn’t just a trend; it’s a fundamental shift that encompasses many aspects of your day-to-day operations. If that sounds intimidating or off-putting, it shouldn’t. Many sustainable practices are also just good business, … [Read more...] about Eco-Friendly Strategies
Saying “I Do” to AI
Event professionals are finding innovative ways to enhance their services by creatively using AI tools By Rachael Soete, managing director of Culinary Canvas Artificial intelligence (AI) has been a hot topic in countless industries for years, but only recently have event professionals faced the reality and impact of the tool within their profession. Since COVID, clients … [Read more...] about Saying “I Do” to AI
Close the Gen Z Gap
Three ways to serve up success with young foodservice employees By Scott Greenberg “So, what’s the most stressful part of running your operation?” I pose this question to audience members before every conference keynote. Most answer the same: “Employees.” High turnover, frequent call-outs, apathy— many foodservice employers just can’t get the stability and … [Read more...] about Close the Gen Z Gap
Brave New Kitchens
Professional kitchen design and equipment are evolving with the times By Sara Perez Webber When it comes to designing professional kitchens, “efficiency and flexibility will never go out of style, regardless of the trends,” says Marisa Mangani, president of Mise En Place Design in Sarasota, Florida. “It’s all about making money, saving steps, minimizing labor and having … [Read more...] about Brave New Kitchens
Managing Risk in 2024
What foodservice firms need to know about the latest operating pressures By Kim Gore, HUB International The restaurant and foodservice industry ended 2023 on a high note as consumer spending was projected by Foodservice Equipment & Supplies to hit $845.7 billion, versus $790 billion in 2022. But that was without the lift of alcohol sales, and without factoring in … [Read more...] about Managing Risk in 2024
Increase Your Score in 2024
Tips for upping your social media game like a pro By Mark Sorenson, CEO of Social High Rise In 2024, if your business isn’t killing it on social media, you’re falling behind—it’s as simple as that. This is more than just showing off your dishes. It’s about using social media smartly to grab your customers’ attention and sway their dining decisions. Consider this: A … [Read more...] about Increase Your Score in 2024
Datassential Releases 2024 Food Trends Report
Leading food-and-beverage market research firm Datassential has released findings from its annual trend report, covering predictions for 2024. According to its research, 63% of consumers say they are optimistic about the year ahead. A major food trend identified by the report is “European 2.0.” According to Datassential, a new generation of chefs is rethinking classic … [Read more...] about Datassential Releases 2024 Food Trends Report
