Restaurants: QSR and food-to-go drive growth amid cautious market conditions

Why It Is the Topic Trending • Consumer Demand for Convenience: The fast-paced lifestyle of consumers is driving the need for quick and accessible dining options. • Growth in Food-to-Go Segment: Increasing preference for on-the-go meals reflects changing consumer habits, especially post-pandemic. • Technological Advancements: The rise of digital ordering and delivery services is reshaping…

Food: From Kardashian popcorn to pancakes – is the protein health craze worth it?

Why it is the topic trending: • Proliferation of High-Protein Products: The market is seeing a significant increase in the launch of high-protein versions of various food items, including unexpected categories like desserts and snacks. • Celebrity Endorsements: High-profile celebrities are promoting or launching protein-rich products, drawing public attention. • Rising Sales Figures: Data indicates a substantial increase…

Food: Calorie counts on menus and food labels may not help consumers choose healthier foods, new research shows

Why it is the topic trending: • Counterintuitive Findings: The study reveals a surprising and potentially concerning outcome: calorie information can actually hinder people’s ability to accurately judge the healthiness of food. • Challenges Current Public Health Assumptions: The research questions the effectiveness of widespread calorie labeling, a common strategy in public health initiatives. • Relevance to…

Food: From H Mart to Mainstream: The Rise of Asian Food Brands

Why it is the topic trending: • Significant Market Growth: Sales in the “Asian/ethnic aisle” are growing at a rate nearly four times faster than overall grocery sales. • Cultural Phenomenon: Asian grocers like H Mart and 99 Ranch are recognized as a significant cultural force. • Masterclass in Modern Branding: The success of Asian food brands offers…

Beverages: Patrons select emotions to order cocktails at Suntory’s ‘Glass and Words’ pop-up bar in Tokyo

Why it is the topic trending: • Innovative Concept: Ordering cocktails based on emotions is a novel and attention-grabbing idea, offering a unique experience compared to traditional bar menus. • Immersive Experience: The “Glass and Words” pop-up provides an immersive encounter that goes beyond simply ordering and consuming a drink. • Demystifying Cocktail Culture: The concept aims to…

Shopping: Spending Growth Slowing Among All Income Groups

Why it is the topic trending: • Economic Indicator: Consumer spending is a key indicator of economic health, and a slowdown across all income levels signals potential concerns about economic growth. • Shift in Spending Patterns: The report highlights a shift from discretionary to non-discretionary spending, reflecting the impact of inflation on essential goods and services. •…

Automotive: Study Reveals Over Half Of Americans Are Open To A Car Subscription Instead Of Purchasing

Why it is the topic trending: • Shifting Ownership Models: The traditional model of car ownership (purchasing, financing, or leasing) is being challenged by the potential appeal of a subscription model. • iPhone Analogy: The article draws a parallel to the popularity of subscription models for smartphones, suggesting a potential shift in consumer preferences towards this model…

Restaurants: Why Fast Casual Keeps Winning

Why it is the topic trending: • Fastest Growing Segment: The fast-casual sector has been the fastest-growing restaurant segment for the past two decades. • Unexpected Sales Gains: Analysts are surprised by how fast-casual brands are increasing sales, particularly noting that this growth isn’t solely driven by participating in “value wars” or deep discounts. • Trade-Up Phenomenon: Traditionally,…

Food: Top 100 Food Trends in May

Why is the topic trending: • Highlighting Innovation in Food: The article showcases new and inventive food products and trends emerging in May 2025, indicating a dynamic and evolving food industry. • Focus on Convenience and Functionality: Several trends emphasize ease of consumption and added benefits like extra-long noodles for gamers and protein-enriched popcorn. • Reimagining Classic…