FOODSERVICE FUTURIST: RESTAURANTS AND QSRS ARE GETTING A HIGH-TECH UPGRADE

As we navigate through ongoing industry disruption, foodservice futurists are making it clear that the field is far from static – and continuing to evolve at a blistering clip. Heck, just visit your favorite restaurant or QSR and you can already see how much it’s changed since pre-pandemic times. Since we get the pleasure of working as foodservice futurists often, what say we take a quick peek at some new happenings in the field?

For instance, perhaps you’ve noted the meteoric rise of ghost kitchens, or delivery-only restaurants. Driven by digital platforms and soaring demand for takeout and delivery options, ghost kitchens allow for streamlined operations, minimized overheads, and the ability to rapidly pivot to consumer preferences. These “virtual restaurants” have emerged as a sustainable and scalable business model for restaurateurs in urban areas.

But in tandem with ghost kitchens, automation is making significant strides in foodservice. Robotic chefs and servers, AI-powered ordering systems, and self-service kiosks are increasingly commonplace. They boost efficiency, reduce human error, and provide seamless service, appealing to the tech-savvy, convenience-seeking clientele. Robots like Flippy, the burger-flipping machine, are now not just novelties but serious contributors to operational efficiency.

Of course, sustainability is a dominant theme in today’s market landscape, per leading foodservice futurists and keynote speakers. More businesses are championing farm-to-table concepts, aiming to reduce their carbon footprint, promote local produce, and provide transparent sourcing. Moreover, eco-friendly packaging, energy-efficient appliances, and food waste reduction strategies are being widely adopted, signifying an industry-wide shift towards green initiatives.

Plant-based and cultured meats continue to carve out their market share too, reflecting a growing consumer preference for alternatives to traditional meat due to health, ethical, or environmental concerns. With advancements in food science, these alternatives are no longer just approximations but compelling counterparts to meat in terms of taste and texture.

Health-focused menus are another major development to keep on your radar, reflecting society’s increasing awareness of the links between diet and wellness. Menus now feature gluten-free, low-carb, and allergy-friendly options, as well as dishes tailored to specific diets like keto, paleo, and vegan. Additionally, functional foods — those that offer health benefits beyond basic nutrition, like fermented foods and foods high in antioxidants — are also gaining traction.

And, of course, personalization is a key theme in the foodservice industry. The rise of AI and data analytics allows businesses to offer customized experiences. From personalized menu recommendations based on dietary preferences and past orders to custom meal plans and nutrition tracking, technology is enabling a new level of custom-tailoring in food service.