Back-to-School Foodservice
for Today's Students
Gen Z and Gen Alpha differ in significant ways from previous generations. Foodservice operators need to account for these differences to make cafeterias, on-campus operations, and other student-friendly options their first choice.
BACK-TO-SCHOOL FOODSERVICE FOR TODAY'S STUDENTS
Looking for valueGen Z is dining out and ordering in significantly more year-over-year.
At the same time, nearly 50% are “troubled” by grocery and restaurant prices.1
Looking for variety33% of Gen Z have traveled internationally and had their tastes changed by the experience.1 K-12 students are more diverse than in previous years. They’re looking for halal, kosher, vegan, and allergy-friendly options.2
1. Datassential Gen Z Evolving Habits–Elevate Huddle (Nov 2024); 2. Datassential IFMA US Foodservice Forecast 2025 (April 2025)
The youngest generations don’t just diverge from older cohorts: There are also differences between Gen Z and Gen Alpha when it comes to values and beliefs. These impact their spending and food choices.1
Sources: 1. Datassential Gen Z Evolving Habits – Elevate Huddle (Nov 2024)
65% of Gen Z drinks cold coffee most often. 63% prefer coffee with a lot of added flavors.1 Students expect to be able to personalize their cup. Give them options: A DIY flavor station is a great way to offer customization and connect with young diners.
Something For EveryoneCoffee mate® Oat Milk and Almond Milk creamers are plant-based, vegan, gluten free, and packed with flavor.Offer even more options with a Coffee mate® variety pack: flavors like Italian Sweet Crème, Salted Caramel Chocolate, and Vanilla Caramel can really sweeten your cold coffee bar.
Sources: 1. Kantar Profiles/Mintel (May 2023)
Sources: 1. Datassential 2024 Generational Trends: Gen Z Grows Up (April 2025); 2. NielsenIQ Mid-Year Consumer Outlook Guide (2025)
Nearly 33% of Gen Z follow a food brand on social media—almost 10% more than the general population1. And about 40% are likely to purchase via social media2. So, what are the best ways to reach this audience?
Create and publicize accounts.Develop an organic social presence and encourage comments, reviews, and conversations.Answer patrons' common questions through owned media channels.Build up reviews and work with influencers.Consider how digital rewards may pay big dividends.
1.
2.3.
4.
5.
Younger generations crave authentic connections, whether with influencers, brands, restaurants, or their campus foodservice operation. Tailoring offerings to their desire for snacks, convenience, and more adventurous items can pay big dividends.
Include and highlight halal, kosher, and vegan items.
Offer global flavors to appeal to students who have traveled—or are just excited to try new things.
Offer snacks and grab-and-go items throughout the day and night.
Connect to the campus communityDuke University’s foodservice offers cooking classes, chef demos, and themed dinners.
At James Madison University, students can order food from campus restaurants for delivery to their dorm or the library.
UMass-Amherst asks the campus community for family recipes. These serve as the basis for an annual meal and are compiled in a cookbook.1
Sources: 1. U.S. News & World Report (May 2024)
By understanding the values and beliefs that motivate high-school and college students, foodservice operators can keep their cafeterias and restaurants busy and profitable.
Further reading from Nestlé Professional SolutionsGrab & Go Snacks, Long-Term Success
Make Your Cold Coffee a Hot Commodity Top 3 College & University Food Service Insights in 2025Learn Sustainability From College Foodservice
