Why it is the topic trending: • New Menu Items from a Popular Chain: Taco Bell is a well-known and frequently discussed fast food chain, so any new menu additions are likely to generate interest. • Limited-Time Availability: The fact that these items are only available for a limited time creates a sense of urgency and encourages…
Category: Innovation
Embracing legacy, driving innovation: Taco John’s approach to modern restaurant leadership
Taco John’s prioritizes balancing tradition with innovation to stay relevant in the evolving restaurant industry, focusing on people, menu innovation, technology, local connections and strategic growth partnerships. President and CEO Heather Neary explains the brand’s leadership ethos. Source: Embracing legacy, driving innovation: Taco John’s approach to modern restaurant leadership | QSR Web
Insight of the Day: What’s next for bakeries? Insights from ABA’s 2024 Playbooks
Findings:1. Variety Drives Purchases: Consumers who purchase diverse bakery items across categories and meal applications shop more frequently, increasing sales.2. Economic Considerations: Inflation has pushed consumers to buy smaller quantities more often, emphasizing promotions and affordability.3. Generational Preferences: • Millennials prefer diverse sizes and fresh options (e.g., tortillas) and lead trends in savoury pastries. • Boomers favor…
Insight of the Day: Innovation is not dead – Mars Food and Nutrition R&D head on the future of big food
Findings: • Consumers demand convenient, healthy, and tasty foods that fit their busy lifestyles without compromising quality or environmental values. • AI and emerging technologies are critical for accelerating product development and meeting consumer expectations. • Collaboration between brands and suppliers is essential to delivering innovative solutions.Key Takeaways: • Convenience, health, and sustainability are the core consumer…
Insight of the Day: Innovation in wine branding and packaging
Findings: • Gen Z (aged 12-27) is drinking wine less frequently, influenced by health-consciousness, affordability concerns, and a preference for experiential over traditional consumption. • Packaging innovation, non-traditional branding, and alternative formats are reshaping how wine is presented to attract younger LDA consumers.Key Takeaway:Wine brands must innovate with casual, accessible, and experiential branding, align with…
Insight of the Day: The State of Fashion: “2025 will be difficult, but not for ‘challenger’ brands”
Findings1. The global fashion market is valued at $2.5 trillion, but 80% of executives expect no improvement in 2025.2. 70% of executives cite low consumer confidence as a significant challenge.3. Challenger sportswear brands like On, Hoka, and Arc’teryx are outperforming incumbents like Nike and Adidas, with 57% of profits expected from this segment.4. Second-hand shopping and a focus on value…
Innovation of the Day: Fan-Made Sandwich Creations
Findings: • Burger King has announced the finalists in its ‘Million Dollar Whopper Contest’, with three innovative Whopper creations. • The finalists include the ‘Fried Pickle Ranch Whopper’, the ‘Maple Bourbon BBQ Whopper’, and the ‘Mexican Street Corn Whopper’, each offering unique ingredient combinations and flavor profiles.Key Takeaway: • Burger King is leveraging customer-driven innovation…