CHICAGO — Technomic has released its list of six trends expected to impact Canada’s foodservice industry in 2018.
The forecast predicts significant changes in the coming year, noting that consumers’ cravings for new flavour pairings and the evolution of alternative diets are helping to shape the menu of the future. The tech revolution has also played a large part in shaping where the foodservice industry is headed — creating new opportunities for operators to reach their customers in ways they never dreamed of.
“Third-party delivery has brought Canadian operators to the tech forefront,” says Erik Thoresen, principal at Technomic. “Despite hurdles around fees and deliverability of certain menu items, these platforms have opened up new marketing channels for operators and increased their ability to compete within a broader trading area.”
Highlights from Technomic’s 2018 Canadian Trends Forecast include:
• Putting plants to work: Plants are cropping up across the menu, with veggie noodles, plant milks and indulgent plant-based proteins poised to solidify more prominent placement on menu boards next year.
• Indigenous cuisines inspire: Chefs will bring new attention to the foods of the First Nations by shining a light on Canada’s native cuisines.
• Delivering convenience: To stay competitive, operators that are quick to perfect their delivery process — maintaining food temperature, quality and friendly service — will excel.
The full report is available for download at technomic.com.
