Trends

Keeping the foodservice equipment marketplace up to date with the latest menu and concept trends.

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Creative space allocation and equipment specification can help foodservice designers and operators navigate the trickiest logistical challenges any space may present. Here MVP Services Group’s Eric Norman shares five tips he leveraged across two recent foodservice design projects.

FE&S introduces you to a group of professionals positively shaping the foodservice industry through their outlooks, actions and more.

The new refrigeration regulations developed by the Environmental Protection Agency will spice up the conversation that surrounds a foodservice operator’s decision to repair or replace an existing piece of equipment. A veteran service agent outlines some of the factors foodservice operators will have to weigh moving forward.

Foodservice venues represent a sure thing for gaming operations looking to enhance their customers’ experiences and bottom lines. Operators require heavy-duty and flexible equipment packages to hit the jackpot.

Their ease of use and versatility make microwave ovens popular pieces of equipment among foodservice operators of all sizes. Here are five tips to keep these kitchen workhorses galloping ahead.

The foodservice industry continues to change dramatically in all segments, from commercial to non-commercial alike. Changing consumer palates and eating behaviors have a lot to do with this. Research has shown the majority of us want better quality, fresher food and more comfortable, interesting dining environments, whether we’re in a fine dining restaurant or a hospital. Some of the industry’s top foodservice consultants share their take on the outside influences impacting these changes in a variety of segments.

Feeding on-the-run consumers via grab-AND-go offerings can help operators boost sales by appealing to customers’ need for convenience.

Last July, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released a series of new rules prohibiting certain refrigerants because of their high global warming potential (GWP). The announcements, however, started a flurry of rumors, worries and myths in the foodservice community because of the confusion about which refrigerants would be banned and how that might affect existing equipment and future selections.

Career options seem endless for many high school students who often go on to college and even change majors several times. For Pine Tree Food Equipment’s Dan Poulin, though, the transition from student to professional was pretty straightforward.

Every year, the National Restaurant Association reveals its anticipated What’s Hot survey results collected from chefs and other members of the American Culinary Federation, which sheds light on new trends in the industry as well as perennial ones making it to more mainstream status. While the list revolves mainly around food trends, it has many implications when it comes to design and equipment. We picked out a few of our favorites.

Krystal, the 84-year-old, Southern quick-service burger concept, partnered with Georgia Power to implement a new energy-saving program and test several other initiatives.

Designing foodservice operations to meet the expectations of Millennials and other emerging generations remains a topic of constant discussion. Equally important, though is recruiting Millennials to become the next generation of restaurant and foodservice industry workers.

Restaurants can be profit centers for convenience retailers with decent store traffic that enlists the help of experienced foodservice personnel.

Sometimes it seems there’s a plan for everything. A plan for the day. A plan for the weekend, when you might meet up with friends or go on a family outing. A plan for the kitchen, so you know what needs to go where. A plan for the project, with goals, actions and assessments.

They say that art imitates life. In some instances, though, life could be better served by imitating art. In this thought-provoking piece, consultant Matthew Mabel outlines five key lessons members of the foodservice industry, including operators, consultants and other members of the supply chain, can learn from the legendary David Bowie.

Operations overcome diners’ preconceived flavor expectations and find solutions to succeed in the competitive barbecue segment.

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