The Future of Fast Food: A Perspective from the Grocerant Guru®

 

Steven Johnson the Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions®, has been observing the evolution of the food industry for years. One of the most exciting developments in recent times is the rise of technology-driven concepts like Speedy Eats, a trailblazer in the quick-service food industry. This innovative company is setting a new standard for fast food consumption, leaving traditional chain restaurants struggling to keep up. 

The Speedy Eats Revolution 

Established in 2019 as a pizza kitchen, Speedy Eats has evolved into a technological powerhouse, leveraging cutting-edge technology to deliver fresh, healthy meals on-the-go. The company's mission is to redefine the culinary experience, one speedy delivery at a time. 

Speedy Eats recently announced the launch of its groundbreaking unmanned drive-through concept, a testament to its commitment to innovation and convenience. This concept is set to revolutionize the fast-food industry, offering a streamlined ordering process through cashless payment options and a QR code verification system. 

The Technological Edge 

What sets Speedy Eats apart is its integration with third-party delivery services like GrubHub and collaborations with top companies like Valqari and Indro Robotics for drone and automated ground delivery. The company also uses image recognition technology for verifying customers' identities or ages for age-restricted items. 

Moreover, Speedy Eats optimizes delivery routes using machine learning, ensuring efficient and timely deliveries. It also features a customizable inventory management system with interactive shelves and a real-time dashboard for operators. 

The Challenge for Chain Restaurants 

The rise of Speedy Eats poses a significant challenge for traditional chain restaurants. These establishments must now grapple with the reality of a new competitor that operates 24/7, caters to the needs of busy consumers around the clock, and leverages technology to enhance the convenience and efficiency of food delivery. 

Traditional chain restaurants must adapt quickly or risk being left behind. They need to embrace technology and innovation, just as Speedy Eats has done, to meet the evolving demands of today's consumers. 

The Future of Fast Food 

With 12 locations in Baton Rouge and plans for expansion, Speedy Eats is poised to transform the fast food industry, one parking lot at a time. As the Grocerant Guru, I'm excited to see how this will shape the future of fast food. The integration of automation and efficiency into food service, as exemplified by Speedy Eats, is a trend that resonates with me and, undoubtedly, with consumers as well. 

Think about this, the future of fast food is here, and it's called Speedy Eats. Traditional chain restaurants must rise to the challenge or risk becoming obsolete. The race is on, and Speedy Eats is leading the pack. Do you agree? Let me know.

Do your food marketing ideas look more like yesterday than tomorrow? Interested in learning how our Grocerant Guru® can edify your retail food brand while creating a platform for consumer convenient meal participation, differentiation, and individualization?  Email us at: Steve@FoodserviceSolutions.us or visit: us on our social media sites by clicking one of the following links: Facebook,  LinkedIn, or Twitter

Grocerant Boom Shakes Up Restaurant Landscape: Consumers Seek Convenience and Value

 

The way we eat is changing. While traditional restaurants still hold a place in our hearts (and stomachs), a new trend is emerging: the grocerant aka retailers that sell fresh prepared meals and meal components for takeout and delivery.

Steven Johnson the Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions® continues to see wider consumers migration between retail food sectors as time-starved, price sensitive consumers seek cooking from scratch home meal replacement options.   

Grocerants most often are restaurants, convenience stores, and grocery stores that offer prepared restaurant-quality meals alongside traditional menus, meals, or CPG foods. This migration towards grocerants is having a significant impact on the restaurant industry, with some chains struggling to adapt.

Here's a closer look at how consumer preferences are driving this change:

·         Convenience is King: Consumers today are busier than ever, and they crave convenient meal solutions. Grocerants niche retailers offer pre-made meals that can be heated up at home, saving time and effort compared to traditional restaurant dining.

·         Value Matters: Grocerants niche retailers often provide a more affordable option compared to eating out. Shoppers can pick up a prepared meal for the same price, or even less, than the cost of a restaurant entrée which traditional commands a tip.

·         Variety is the Spice of Life: Grocerant niche retailers come from every sector of food retail, offer a wide selection of prepared meals, catering to different dietary needs and preferences. This allows consumers to find exactly what they're looking for without having to settle for a limited menu.

Traditional Chains Feeling the Heat

Battle for Share of Stomach

While grocerants niche retailers rise in popularity, some established restaurant chains are facing challenges. Here are a few examples:

·         Krystal: This classic burger joint has been around for decades, but it's struggling to keep up with the times. Their menu might not cater to the current health-conscious consumer, and their bankruptcy filing in 2020 highlights financial difficulties.

·         Pie Five Pizza: This create-your-own pizza concept seemed innovative at first, but it appears it hasn't captured the market share it was hoping for. Grocerant niche retailers often have similar build-your-own meal options, but within the grocery store setting and sell for much less.

·         Fuddruckers: Known for their high-quality ingredients, Fuddruckers has seen a significant decline in locations. While new ownership might bring a turnaround, the grocerant niche retail convenience factor poses a threat.

·         Steak n’ Shake: While their iconic menu items remain popular, Steak n’ Shake has seen a drop in restaurant numbers. Grocerant niche retailers might be luring away customers seeking a similar burger experience at a more convenient location.

While it's important to remember that the restaurant industry is constantly evolving. These are just a few examples of how grocerant niche retailers are impacting the landscape. As consumer preferences continue to shift, we can expect to see further changes in the way we dine.

Don’t over reach. Are you ready for some fresh ideations? Do your food marketing ideations look more like yesterday than tomorrow? Interested in learning how Foodservice Solutions® can edify your retail food brand while creating a platform for consumer convenient meal participation, differentiation and individualization?  Email us at: Steve@FoodserviceSolutions.us or visit us on our social media sites by clicking the following links: Facebook,  LinkedIn, or Twitter

Competition for Food Consumers Driving Change

 

Steven Johnson Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions® and his team, have been closely observing the battle for the consumer's stomach among restaurants, grocery stores, and convenience stores. The recent Numerator's Consumer Confidence report provides some interesting insights into this ongoing competition. 

The report reveals a slight dip in consumer confidence in April, with the score dropping to 56.9 [3]. This reflects a growing concern among consumers about job availability and financial stability. Despite these concerns, the food sector continues to be a battleground for consumer dollars. 

Interestingly, consumers are increasingly turning to cost-saving measures. A significant 43.7% are using coupons and discount codes, while 42.9% are opting to cook meals at home. This trend is a clear indication of the growing importance of grocery stores in the food sector. 

In fact, recent trends suggest that grocery stores are gaining an edge over restaurants in the food spending market share [4]. This shift has been driven by the pandemic, which has seen consumers increasingly turn to grocery stores for their food needs. 

Convenience stores are also making their mark. They're becoming popular alternatives to traditional fast-food restaurants, with consumers seeking quick, on-the-go meals. In 2023, convenience stores were primarily visited for food on the go, with 77% of consumers eating the meal they purchased in their car. 

However, the competition is far from over. Restaurants continue to gain market share, with their share nearly 56% in December. Despite higher prices compared to grocery stores, consumers have not significantly shifted their food dollars back to grocery stores and supermarkets. 

Think about this, while consumers are feeling less confident about the economy, the battle for the share of stomach continues. Currently, it appears that grocery stores and convenience stores are gaining ground, but restaurants are not far behind. As the Grocerant Guru®, I'll be keeping a close eye on these trends and how they evolve in the future. Stay tuned for more insights! 

Invite Foodservice Solutions® to complete a Grocerant ScoreCard, or for product positioning or placement assistance, or call our Grocerant Guru®.  Since 1991 Foodservice Solutions® of Tacoma, WA has been the global leader in the Grocerant niche. Contact: Steve@FoodserviceSolutions.us or 253-759-7869

Grocery Stores vs Fast Food: The Battle Heats Up with Harris Teeter's $5 Meal Days

 

In just another example of how Kroger still can’t quite figure out grocerant niche ready-2-eat and heat-N-eat fresh prepared food. Steven Johnson Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA. based Foodservice Solutions® believes the line between customer relevance and price for a meal fresh prepared, flavorful, and fast meal is very close to $5 once again today.   In the face of rising dining out costs, grocery stores are stepping up their game to garner consumer that migrated to the restaurant sector. Harris Teeter, a prominent player in the grocery sector, is leading the charge with its innovative "$5 Meal Days" initiative. This move is a clear indication of the escalating competition between grocery stores and fast-food restaurants. 

The5 Meal Days offer is available at select Harris Teeter stores in the greater Washington, D.C., area, including their latest addition at UrbA Plaza, Arlington, Va. The deal includes a variety of popular prepared food items, available for just 5 Meal Days offer is available at select Harris Teeter stores in the greater Washington D.C., area including their latest additional at UrbA Plaza, Arlington, Va. The deal includes a variety of popular grocerant niche fresh prepared ready-2-Eat items for just $5 each weekday.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics' inflation report released in April reveals that the cost of dining out rose by 0.3% in March, while the grocery sector remained stable. This data underscores the growing financial appeal of grocery shopping over dining out. 

In response to these market dynamics, grocery stores are launching attractive deals and promotions. The goal? To position themselves as the go-to destination for quality, budget-friendly meals. Harris Teeter's $5 Meal Days is a prime example of this strategy. Here's what's on the menu: 

·                     Mondays: Whole cheese and pepperoni pizzas (freshly baked and "take and bake") 

·                     Tuesdays: Whole rotisserie chicken 

·                     Wednesdays: Deli green salads 

·                     Thursdays: Eight pieces of fried and baked chicken 

·                     Fridays: Select sushi items 

These deals are available for in-store purchase only, and customers must use their Harris Teeter VIC card to avail the special price. 

Harris Teeter, a subsidiary of The Kroger Co., operates over 250 stores and 70+ fuel centers across multiple states. It's worth noting that Kroger ranks No. 4 on The PG 100, Progressive Grocer’s 2023 list of the top food and consumables retailers in North America. 

As the lines between grocery stores and fast-food restaurants continue to blur, it's clear that the grocery sector is not backing down. Instead, they're leveraging their strengths to provide consumers with cost-effective, quality meal options. The $5 Meal Days initiative by Harris Teeter is a testament to this evolving landscape. Stay tuned for more updates in this exciting grocery-fast food saga. 

Foodservice Solutions® specializes in outsourced business development. We can help you identify, quantify and qualify additional food retail segment opportunities or a new menu product segment and brand and menu integration strategy.  Foodservice Solutions® of Tacoma WA is the global leader in the Grocerant niche visit us on our social media sites by clicking one of the following links: Facebook,  LinkedIn, or Twitter

Here are ten things to do to get the most out of the National Restaurant Show in Chicago

 

According to Steven Johnson Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions® it not to late to review the following ten insights before you step on the floor of the National Restaurant Show in Chicago, this year.

Before the Show:

1.       Set Goals and Priorities: Determine what you want to achieve at the show. Are you looking for new equipment, ingredients, or technology? Do you want to network with specific vendors or industry professionals? Having clear goals will help you prioritize your time. National Restaurant Association Show

2.       Pre-register: Save time and money by registering beforehand. This will also allow you to browse the exhibitor list and plan your route through the show floor. National Restaurant Association Show

3.       Research Exhibitors: Make a list of exhibitors you want to visit based on your goals. Review exhibitor profiles and new product announcements to target your time.

Do you want to build a 

Larger Share of Stomach

Plan Ahead

During the Show:

4.       Plan Your Schedule: Map out a plan for each day, allocating time for specific booths, educational sessions, and networking events.

5.       Pack Light: Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking. Bring a backpack to carry brochures and samples.

6.       Bring Business Cards: Network with vendors and attendees by exchanging business cards.

Maximizing Your Experience:

7.       Attend Educational Sessions: Learn from industry experts on the latest trends, innovations, and best practices.

8.       Sample Products: Many exhibitors offer free samples of their food and beverages. This is a great way to try new products and meet with vendors.

9.       Take Notes: Jot down key information from exhibitor conversations and educational sessions for future reference.

10.   Follow Up: After the show, connect with vendors and attendees via email or LinkedIn to continue building relationships.

By following these tips, you can make the most of your time and money at the National Restaurant Show in Chicago.

For international corporate presentations, regional chain presentations, educational forums, or keynotes contact: Steven Johnson Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions.  His extensive experience as a multi-unit restaurant operator, consultant, brand / product positioning expert, and public speaking will leave success clues for all. For more information visit GrocerantGuru.com, FoodserviceSolutions.US or call 1-253-759-7869

Are Restaurant Prices to HIGH?

 

In the face of persistent inflation, consumers are increasingly turning to promotions, discounts, and loyalty programs to manage the rising costs of dining out. A significant 78% of Americans concur that escalating menu prices have made dining out more challenging this year. 

Once again StevenJohnson Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions®, wants to share some important insights; this time recent findings from Givex’s 2024 Restaurant and Dining Trends Survey, with a particular focus on the price-value-service equilibrium and its resulting consumer discontinuity. 

The economic turbulence has inevitably reshaped how people approach dining out. While there's a heightened sensitivity to price, there's also a growing appreciation for value-added services such as loyalty programs and promotional offers. These tools are proving instrumental in helping restaurants maintain customer engagement during these tough times. 

Promotions are a major incentive for 86% of Americans to dine out, closely followed by coupons and discounts at 81%. Additionally, loyalty programs hold value for 65% of respondents, and nearly half (47%) are drawn to Happy Hour deals. This trend clearly indicates consumers' efforts to optimize value in response to rising menu prices and the ongoing impacts of inflation. 

Key insights from the survey include: 

1.       Inflation Impact: Higher menu prices have made dining out more challenging over the past year, as agreed by 78% of Americans. 

2.       Shifts in Dining and Delivery: About 41% of respondents are dining out less frequently, while 45% have reduced their food delivery orders compared to last year. Meanwhile, 60% report cooking more at home. 

3.       Loyalty Programs: Almost half of all Americans prioritize grocery loyalty programs, with 49% rating them as most important. Overall, 87% of Americans participate in at least one loyalty program. 

4.       Technology Adoption: There's a growing acceptance of AI, specifically conversational AI-driven product recommendation technology, in the restaurant industry, with 52% of Americans comfortable with its implementation. In the 2024 Restaurant Technology Study co-sponsored by Givex, 63% of restaurant operators surveyed said they are planning to use or add AI or automation/robotics into their operations. 

Do You Want To Build A

Larger Share of Stomach

As we navigate through this period of economic adjustment, understanding consumer priorities is crucial for businesses aiming to enhance customer experiences and drive sales. The insights from the 2024 survey provide critical data that can assist restaurant owners and operators in making strategic decisions that align with customer preferences. 

For more information about the technology solutions offered by Givex, please visit their website. Remember, the key to success in these challenging times is finding the right balance between price, value, and service. Stay tuned for more insights from your Grocerant Guru® and Foodservice Solutions® team. 

Invite Foodservice Solutions® to complete a Grocerant ScoreCard, or for product positioning or placement assistance, or call our Grocerant Guru®.  Since 1991 Foodservice Solutions® of Tacoma, WA has been the global leader in the Grocerant niche. Contact: Steve@FoodserviceSolutions.us or 253-759-7869