The foodservice and hospitality landscape is evolving, and 2026 is shaping up to be a year defined by sharper expectations, smarter operations and more informed consumers. Across venues, staying connected to emerging trends isn’t about chasing what’s new, it’s about understanding how customer behaviour, technology and supply chains are reshaping the way venues operate. From sustainability and alternative proteins to

Research reveals that 95% of purchasing decisions are subconscious, driven by emotional responses rather than rational analysis (Research and Metric).  It’s a jaw-dropping statistic and one which cannot be overlooked. Increasingly, successful brands are tapping into this insight, focusing on culture, community and emotive storytelling to capture the attention of their customer base and draw them in on an emotional

Small businesses don’t need huge budgets to make a big marketing impact — in fact, there are plenty of powerful, free ways to reach new customers and build loyalty. From email marketing and PR, to collaborations with local businesses, the most effective strategies are rooted in storytelling, community and showing up where your audience already is. Meet Jenn Donovan. Jenn

This December, local restaurants are joining forces for DineSmart, a national campaign supporting people experiencing homelessness. Diners are invited to add a small $2 donation to their bill and every donation stays local, supporting grassroots organisations providing food relief, housing support, domestic violence assistance, and more. Over two decades, the campaign has raised $4.4 million and distributed 1,151 grassroots grants

These days, the desire to build authentic business relationships is no longer considered an endearing characteristic of a company, now it’s a necessity in getting an edge on the competition. Modern brands are working hard to respond to current consumer demands, who want to feel valued by the brands they buy from. But building trust from consumers and developing a