The Joy of Meal Assembly: A Culinary Revolution for Time-Starved Generations

 

In the ever-evolving landscape of foodservice, one trend has emerged as a beacon of convenience and satisfaction for modern consumers: the rise of fresh prepared ready-2-eat (RTE) and heat-n-eat meals. Steven Johnson the Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions®, has observed a significant shift in consumer behavior, especially among Gen Z and Millennial cohorts.

These younger generations are redefining the dining experience, prioritizing convenience and variety while shunning the traditional kitchen for innovative, time-saving solutions. Let's delve into the historical context and industry facts that underscore why mix-and-match meal component bundling is becoming the preferred choice for today's busy lifestyles.

A Historical Perspective: The Decline of Home Cooking

The decline in cooking skills among younger generations is a well-documented phenomenon. Unlike their parents and grandparents, who grew up in households where cooking from scratch was a daily ritual, Gen Z and Millennials have been raised in a world of convenience. According to a 2020 report by the International Food Information Council, only 25% of Millennials and Gen Zers report cooking from scratch daily, compared to 50% of Baby Boomers. This decline in cooking skills is further exacerbated by hectic schedules, with 64% of Millennials citing a lack of time as the primary reason they do not cook more often.

The Time-Starved Consumer: A New Reality

The modern lifestyle has left Gen Z and Millennials more time-starved than any previous generation. A 2021 survey by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics found that the average American spends only 37 minutes per day on meal preparation, a sharp decline from the 60 minutes recorded in the 1960s. This reduction in time spent cooking is driven by increased work commitments, longer commutes, and the desire for more leisure time.

For these generations, the question, "What's for dinner?" has evolved from a culinary challenge into a logistical one. The traditional sit-down meal, meticulously prepared at home, has given way to the demand for fast, convenient, and customizable dining solutions. This shift is not just a passing trend; it's a reflection of a fundamental change in how we perceive and prioritize our time.

Fresh Prepared Ready-2-Eat and Heat-N-Eat: The Ultimate Solution

Enter the era of fresh prepared RTE and heat-n-eat meals, a category that has exploded in popularity over the last decade. These offerings provide a perfect blend of convenience, quality, and variety, catering to the diverse tastes and dietary preferences of today's consumers. According to the Food Marketing Institute, the demand for these meals has grown by 25% annually since 2015, with the market size expected to reach $55 billion by 2025.

The appeal of these meals lies in their flexibility and ease of use. Consumers can quickly assemble a nutritious and delicious meal by combining various components, such as protein, vegetables, grains, and sauces. This mix-and-match approach allows for endless customization, enabling individuals to cater to their specific tastes and dietary needs without the hassle of cooking from scratch.

Empowering Meal Assembly: The Grocerant's Role

Restaurants, Service Deli’s, Convenience Stores can or are becoming, a hybrid of legacy grocery stores, convenience stores and chain restaurants, most are or have become the epicenter of this meal assembly revolution. They offer a wide array of fresh prepared RTE and heat-n-eat options, designed to appeal to the time-strapped, convenience-seeking consumer. Whether it's a grab-and-go sushi platter, a hot rotisserie chicken, or a selection of gourmet salads, grocerants provide an easy and efficient way to answer the daily dinner dilemma and many have drive-thru’s.

The concept of meal assembly at grocerants type outlets goes beyond mere convenience; it also empowers consumers to make healthier choices. With transparent ingredient lists and nutritional information, customers can make informed decisions, selecting meals that align with their health goals and dietary restrictions.

The Joy of Meal Assembly: A Culinary Renaissance

The joy of meal assembly lies in its simplicity and accessibility. For Gen Z and Millennials, who may lack the cooking skills of previous generations, it offers a way to enjoy diverse and exciting meals without the stress of meal planning and preparation. It also opens the door to culinary exploration, allowing consumers to experiment with new flavors and cuisines in a low-risk, low-commitment manner.

Moreover, this trend aligns with the broader movement towards sustainability and reducing food waste. By purchasing only the components they need, consumers can minimize waste and make more environmentally conscious choices.

Think About This: The Future of Dining

As we look to the future, the trend towards fresh prepared RTE and heat-n-eat meals shows no signs of slowing down. For grocerants and other foodservice providers, the opportunity lies in continuing to innovate and expand their offerings, catering to the evolving tastes and preferences of Gen Z and Millennials. The mix-and-match meal component bundling approach is not just a solution for the time-starved consumer; it's a culinary renaissance that brings joy, convenience, and variety to the dining experience.

In the words of the Grocerant Guru®, "The joy of meal assembly is the joy of choice, the joy of convenience, and the joy of savoring every moment." For today's consumers, it's the answer to that age-old question: What's for dinner?

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

EG America Embraces the Grocerant Niche with $5 Meal Deals

 

Yes, the Grocerant Guru® has long championed the appeal of mix-and-match meal component bundling, a hallmark of the grocerant niche. This summer, the team at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions® believe that EG America is setting a new standard by leveraging this approach to captivate both new and returning customers with their $5 meal deals. This strategy not only caters to the on-the-go lifestyle of summer travelers but also reinforces the value-driven dining experience that today's consumers crave.

Customization at the Core

EG America's $5 meal deal epitomizes the essence of customizable convenience. Which started June 19 and running through September 3, customers can create their perfect meal combination from the following options:

·         Main Course: Choice of any two roller grill items or two cheese or pepperoni pizza slices.

·         Beverage: Choice of a 1-liter bottle of Pepsi, Mountain Dew, Aquafina, or Brisk.

·         Snack: Choice of Lay's, Miss Vickie's, Ruffles, or Sun Chips in 1.375-ounce or 1.5-ounce bags.

By allowing customers to mix and match these components, EG America taps into the grocerant trend of personalized dining experiences, making meal times not just convenient but also tailored to individual tastes and preferences. Brian Ferguson, EG America's chief marketing officer, highlights this value proposition, stating, "Our new $5 summer meal deals offer our guests a quick meal on the go, at a great price."

More Than Just a Meal

In addition to the $5 meal deal, EG America is enticing customers with other appealing offers. Their doughnut combo, available from June 19 through September 4, includes two doughnuts and a large hot or iced coffee for just $4. As Michael Limoges, senior vice president of store operations, notes, "Few food items go better with coffee than a doughnut, and with this deal, we're offering our guests both."

EG America's focus on enhancing the coffee experience is another strategic move, emphasizing their reputation for quality beverages. The introduction of their XL cup size ensures that customers can enjoy more of their favorite coffee, adding both convenience and value to their daily routines.

A Commitment to Convenience and Value

With over 1,600 retail locations under various banners including Cumberland Farms, Kwik Shop, and Turkey Hill, EG America is well-positioned to deliver these value-driven deals across the country. The company’s commitment to providing quick, affordable, and customizable meal options aligns perfectly with the grocerant model, which prioritizes convenience, quality, and personalization.

This summer, as travelers hit the road, EG America's innovative meal deals offer them a refreshing alternative to traditional fast-food options. By embracing mix-and-match meal component bundling, EG America not only attracts new customers but also encourages repeat visits, fostering loyalty through value and variety.

In the ever-evolving landscape of convenience retail, EG America's $5 meal deals are a testament to the power of the grocerant niche. They demonstrate that by prioritizing customer preferences and offering customizable, affordable meal options, convenience stores can significantly enhance their appeal and drive customer frequency. As the Grocerant Guru®, I applaud EG America for their forward-thinking approach and look forward to seeing more retailers adopt similar strategies.

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

The Importance of Grocerant Meals at Casey’s General Stores

 

Casey’s General Stores has long been a staple in the hearts of communities across its 16-state footprint. According to Steven Johnson Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions®.  Caseys operates at the intersection of a convenience store retailer and pizza chain.  Casey’s plays a vital role in providing essential goods and services to its customers. However, in recent years, the concept of grocerant meals has gained prominence, and Casey’s has recognized their significance in meeting the evolving needs of its patrons according to Johnson.

What Are Grocerant Meals?

Grocerant meals refer to the fusion of grocery and restaurant offerings within a single establishment. These meals are freshly prepared, convenient, and ready-to-eat options that customers can purchase directly from the store. They bridge the gap between traditional grocery shopping and dining out, providing a convenient solution for busy individuals and families.

Why Are Grocerant Meals Important?

1.       Convenience for Customers:

o    In today’s fast-paced world, convenience is key. Grocerant meals allow customers to grab a satisfying meal without the hassle of cooking or waiting at a restaurant.

o    Casey’s General Stores strategically position themselves as a one-stop-shop, and grocerant meals enhance this convenience factor.

2.       Variety and Freshness:

o    Grocerant meals offer a diverse menu, catering to different tastes and dietary preferences.

o    Casey’s commitment to freshness ensures that these meals are prepared with quality ingredients, appealing to health-conscious consumers.

3.       Community Engagement:

o    Casey’s is deeply ingrained in the communities it serves. By offering grocerant meals, they create a gathering space where neighbors can connect over food.

o    Local favorites and regional specialties become part of the Casey’s experience, fostering a sense of belonging.

4.       Adaptation to Changing Lifestyles:

o    As work schedules shift and families juggle multiple responsibilities, the demand for convenient meal options grows.

o    Grocerant meals align with modern lifestyles, providing an alternative to traditional home-cooked meals.

5.       Revenue Diversification:

o    Grocerant meals contribute to Casey’s revenue diversification strategy.

o    They attract new customers who may not have visited the store solely for fuel or snacks, expanding the customer base.

Casey’s #HereforGood Hunger Campaign

Beyond grocerant meals, Casey’s has demonstrated its commitment to community well-being through initiatives like the #HereforGood Hunger campaign. By partnering with the Feeding America network, Casey’s raised over $1.5 million for local food banks, providing more than 15 million meals to children and families in need¹. This campaign exemplifies Casey’s dedication to making a positive impact beyond its store walls.

There can be no doubt that, grocerant meals play a crucial role in Casey’s General Stores’ mission to serve its communities. So much so that, the convenience store chain announced that Joe Cruz will serve as its first-ever chief pizza & beer officer, beating out more than 500 qualified candidates for the prestigious and mouth-watering role. As they continue to evolve and innovate, Casey’s remains a beacon of convenience, quality, and community support.

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