In the fast-paced world of foodservice, keeping your menu fresh and exciting is key to staying ahead of the game. Menu innovation is all about keeping your customers happy, attracting new ones, and making your brand stand out. Recent headlines in Nation’s Restaurant News illustrate the importance.
Keeping Up with What People Want
Consumers’ tastes are always changing, influenced by new food trends, health fads, and cultural shifts. Some well-known chains saw a big drop in business in 2023 because they didn’t update their menus to match consumer needs. When you factor in the highly competitive landscape, it is crucial to keep up with current trends to avoid losing customers to competitors.
Recent examples in the News
Applebee’s has made a commitment to add a new culinary capability every year, starting with hand breading. The launch of a new line of chicken sandwiches utilizes this technique, but the real power is being able to apply this technique to other menu items. Cracker Barrel is also making big moves. They’re about to roll out the largest menu revamp in their history. This massive update is all about modernizing their offerings while staying true to their roots.
Wrapping It Up
Menu innovation isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a must-have for success in the restaurant world. By keeping their menus fresh, restaurants can adapt to changing tastes, draw in new customers, and stay ahead of the competition. Applebee’s and Cracker Barrel are great examples of how important it is to stay flexible and creative in a constantly evolving market. As dining trends continue to shift, those who prioritize menu innovation will be the ones who thrive.
At Charlie Baggs Culinary Innovations, we have extensive experience supporting commercial and noncommercial operators with consumer-informed menu development that drives cravability and guest satisfaction. If you need help with menu innovation or employee training, please click on the “Contact Us Today” button below and we’ll set up a time to connect!
