There is no doubt it cost a lot to go out to eat at fast food restaurant, fast casual restaurants and full-service sit-down restaurants.  That’s a problem for the restaurant industry according to Steven Johnson Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions®. Some new research insights on how the culinary interests of younger generations are shaping the food industry, particularly in the realm of hand-held foods. The latest Y-Pulse Youth Lifestyle Monitor report reveals that more than half of 8- to 18-year-olds relish the opportunity to prepare meals ..read more

  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, leveragin ..read more

  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 ..read more

  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 ..read more

  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. &nb ..read more

  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 ..read more

  Success does leave clues and McDonald’s has picked up a lot of clues over the years and according to Steven Johnson Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions® from time to time they share some of the clues will all of us.  When they do it’s important that you take note of what they are saying.   This is one of those times. Fast-food behemoth McDonald's is making a strategic shift towards digital marketing, with plans to invest hundreds of millions of dollars in digital innovation. This includes new ordering channels, personalization, and loyalty programs ..read more

  Steven Johnson the Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions®, is thrilled to share this news about Domino's, a restaurant company that's setting a new standard in corporate philanthropy. Domino’s has pledged to raise a staggering $300 million by 2034 for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, marking the largest financial commitment ever made to a children's hospital by a corporation or private entity.  This announcement, made by Domino's CEO Russell Weiner at the company's 2024 Worldwide Rally in Las Vegas, is a testament to the company's dedication to making a ..read more

  There are at several reasons that Steven Johnosn, the Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA Based Foodservice Solutions® thinks that Buffalo Wild Wings' latest venture, Buffalo Wild Wings GO (BWW GO) will be a big hit.  This innovative concept is a game-changer in the Grocerant Niche for five key reasons:  1.                   Smaller Footprint, Bigger Impact: BWW GO's compact design allows it to fit into bustling areas like airports, malls, and college campuses. This strategic placement brings ..read more

  ALDI, a renowned global grocery brand, has been making waves in the grocery industry with its aggressive expansion plans has left success clues for all retailers to follow. The company's unique marketing strategy and relentless focus on customer value have been instrumental in its rise to prominence. Steven Johnson Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions® delves into why ALDI's consumer focus is garnering sales, empowering it to add 800 new stores, and why legacy grocery stores should be concerned. That said, Johnson notes consumers love the prices and discovery ..read more