Foodservice Trends 2024

The foodservice industry had several highs and lows in 2023, and for 2024 we think there will be a huge emergence of innovation to adapt to the changing environment. From smart kitchen equipment to Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other technological advancements that will support businesses to reach and serve customers effectively. Also, consumers are more mindful of the economic conditions which create unique challenges for establishments.

Credit: Google

Restaurant Labour Trends:

• The foodservice industry is embracing automation with the introduction of robots to handle tasks like serving tables and taking orders. Before integrating these technologies, businesses should consider maintenance needs and customer reactions.

• Gen Z, known for their tech-savvy nature, is entering the workforce, seeking enjoyable jobs with good pay, benefits, and a socially responsible culture. To attract them, employers should offer incentives like competitive pay and a supportive environment.

• The industry is seeing a rise in establishments asking for tips, leading to tip fatigue among staff. To address this, businesses may implement automatic gratuity charges.

• As employee activism grows, foodservice workers may increasingly turn to unionization, which could impact operations and require employers to understand labor laws and worker rights.

Credit: Google

Restaurant Marketing Trends:

• Location-based marketing capitalises on smartphones to send promotions to nearby customers, driving impulse purchases.

• To attract diners amidst the rise of take-out, restaurants are offering experience-centric dining, combining fun activities with great food for a memorable night out.

• QR codes, once used mainly for menus, are expanding into advertisements on billboards and flyers, offering special rewards and promotions.

• Businesses are optimising voice search to cater to the increasing use of smart home and car devices, enhancing online visibility and attracting new customers.

Credit: Google

Technology Trends:

• The restaurant industry is embracing AI to automate tasks like order-taking and inventory management, enhancing efficiency and customer service.

• Restaurants are also shifting towards in-house delivery apps to avoid high commission fees and maintain control over the customer experience.

• Contactless payment methods, accelerated by the pandemic, are becoming the norm, offering convenience and safety.

• Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) technologies are poised to transform the dining experience, with restaurants using them to offer immersive virtual tours, interactive menus, and engaging experiences.

Credit: Google

Service Trends:

• Pop-up restaurants have become trendy and will continue to grow, offering unique dining experiences in unconventional spaces.

• Restaurants are enhancing children's menus with healthier options like grilled fish tacos, appealing to health-conscious families.

• Flexibility in operating hours, including extended breakfast and late-night menus, will cater to changing consumer habits.

• Sustainability will be a key focus, with more restaurants prioritising eco-friendly practices like sourcing from regenerative farms and using sustainable packaging. The industry is adapting to meet evolving consumer demands while embracing sustainability.

Credit: Google

Stay ahead of the curve by keeping an eye on foodservice trends impacting your business. Contact us at info@imaginefmcg.com to explore how we can support your restaurant's success.

–Mirfat Khamis, Digital Marketing Specialist, Imagine