CONCLUSION

The forecast for foodservice in 2025 is promising, thanks to a rebounding economy and consumer optimism.

THE FUTURE OF
FOODSERVICE

As overall GDP and consumer sentiment continue their upward trajectory and inflation keeps subsiding, particularly in the Away-From-Home (AFH) dining segment, a resilient economy takes shape as the industry moves into the new year.

By efficiently using existing ingredients and creatively upcycling excess produce, operators can smartly manage their food costs while creating new, unique experiences for diners—and often, showcase these sustainability efforts to climate-conscious customers.

Q2 2024 U.S. GDP increased at 3% (compared to increasing at 1.4% in Q1 2024).¹

Consumer Sentiment Index was at 68.2 in June 2024; up from 64.3 in June 2023.²

Monthly food inflation rate was 2.2% in July 2024; down from 4.9% in July 2023.³

^{Sources: 1. Bureau of Economic Analysis, as cited in Datassental Economic Indicators (August 2024) ; 2. Thomson Reuters University of Michigan Survey of Consumers, as cited in Datassental Economic Indicators (August 2024) ; 3. Bureau of Labor Statistics, as cited in Datassental Economic Indicators (August 2024)}

PREPARING FOR A NEW YEAR

People’s evolving preferences for things like plant-based meals and non-dairy alternatives are a great opportunity for operators to provide convenience and customization, especially to Gen Z and Millennials. The key, however, lies in striking a balance between personalization and price sensitivity.

Not to mention, the adoption of automation and AI will keep accelerating. For instance, self-service kiosks and automated food prep tasks can help reduce costs, improve service times and deliver consistent, high-quality meals as the foodservice industry heads into an era of providing personalized dining experience at a value.

Which trend do you think could be the most valuable for your business in the upcoming year?

Reducing food waste to minimize cost
Expanding menu offerings like non-dairy alternatives
Communicating sustainability initiatives across multiple channels
Adopting automation to improve efficiency

About Nestlé Professional Solutions

Nestlé Professional Solutions provides the finest ingredients, operational knowledge, and uncompromised support to operators, leading the foodservice industry with end-to-end service and pace-setting solutions. The result: consistent delivery of quality and delicious food and beverage experiences out of home.

Bringing a total portfolio of dependable, on-trend, and innovative culinary and beverage brands—from Stouffers^®, Minor’s^®, and Chef-mate^® to Seattle’s Best Coffee^®, Coffee mate^®, and NESCAFÉ^®—Nestlé Professional Solutions offers products to delight customers every moment of every day.

For additional food & beverage industry news, trends and insights, product information, and more, visit www.nestleprofessional.com.

The information provided is based on a general industry overview and is not specific to your business operation. Each operation is unique, and business decisions should be made after consultation with appropriate experts.