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NATIONAL NEWS
Hot Concepts in Ethnic Cuisines Poke
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National News
Harpoon Brewery and Dunkin’ Craft introduce three new beers for fall. Harpoon Dunkin’ Blueberry Matcha IPA, Harpoon Dunkin’ Maple Crème Blonde Ale and Harpoon Dunkin’ Midnight American Porter join Harpoon Dunkin’ Pumpkin Spiced Latte Ale this year. Get a Dunkin’ Dozen. Another Broken Egg Cafe recently opened its fourth location in Indiana at 5025 East 82nd St. in Indianapolis. In addition to being the only daytime cafe with a bar producing hand-crafted cocktails, the award-winning brand is one of the fastest-growing breakfast and brunch concepts nationwide. Bonchon Korean fried chicken breaks ground in Michigan for the first time and they’re opening new locations in Ohio. Bringing some spicy and soy garlic flavor to the Great Lakes state in the following cities: Ann Arbor, Lansing, and Royal Oak. In Ohio, they’ll be opening new locations in Kenwood and Cincinnati. Dunkin’ continues to propel non-traditional development and capitalize on convenience in 2021. The leading coffee brand targets airports, universities and travel plazas for growth. Looking ahead toward the remainder of the year, Dunkin’ plans to continue opening non-traditional locations by focusing on airport expansion within New York’s JFK Airport in Terminal 1 and Chicago’s O’Hare Airport in Terminal 5. Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers makes its debut in New Jersey with the opening of Linden restaurant. The Linden restaurant marks the concept’s first location in New Jersey and entrance into its 34th state, continuing the brand’s development growth across the country. Giant Eagle becomes the first U.S. grocery and convenience store chain to accept Paypal and Venmo in store. Global branded payments company Blackhawk Network is enabling the technology to broaden PayPal and Venmo payment acceptance at Giant Eagle and GetGo stores across the country. Jack in the Box, one of the nation’s leading QSR chains, awards 16 franchise development agreements to open 64 new restaurants. The leading QSR concept is growing in new and existing markets following the relaunch of its franchising program. JW Marriott, part of Marriott International, debuts in North Carolina with the opening of JW Marriott Charlotte, located in the city’s dynamic Uptown neighborhood. The 381-room luxury hotel, including 34 custom suites, offers discerning guests an urban retreat with inspired surroundings in which to relax and be present. Southeastern Grocers Inc., parent company and home of Fresco y Más, Harveys Supermarket and Winn-Dixie grocery stores, won 13 awards for its private label dairy products, competing against dairy industry leaders across North America at the annual World Dairy Expo Championship sponsored by the Wisconsin Dairy Products Association. Toyota marks its 50 millionth Corolla sold. From a humble start, the Corolla grew to become the world’s best-selling model, and Toyota is celebrating this milestone car’s place in automotive history and customers’ lives. The Brown Palace Hotel & Spa, a legend among downtown Denver hotels since 1892 announces the renovation completion of the hotel’s historic Top of the Brown Suites including the 8th and 9th floors and the three famed Presidential Suites: the Eisenhower, the Reagan and the Roosevelt as well as Palace Arms, various meeting spaces and the Club Lounge. The National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association’s annual convention, where the entire frozen and refrigerated industry comes together, returns in-person Oct. 16-19, in San Diego, Calif. Check for any updates and changes.
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Technomic Study: Labor Crisis for Food-Service Industry Might Remain
PepsiCo to Enhance Safe Water Access
PepsiCo wants to replenish more water than it uses and become "Net Water Positive" by 2030, part of a plan to fight water shortages that also includes continued collaboration with WaterAid to ensure safe water access in Sub-Saharan Africa. To reach its goal, PepsiCo said it would follow stricter water use guidelines at all its facilities, nearly half of which are in high-risk watershed areas. -Source: WaterAid ATTENTION SUPPLIERS
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Technomic recently released the “Crisis on the Front Lines Multi Client Study,” uncovering drivers and deterrents to unit-level employment in the commercial restaurant industry among job seekers and current employees. The strategic study also uncovers strategies and tactics for operators as they navigate staffing locations and positioning their brand as employers of choice. "Food-service operators are facing new challenges in connecting with job-seekers while also keeping up with rising consumer demand," explains Melissa Wilson, adviser at Technomic. "The employment value proposition has changed as a result of the pandemic, and operators will need to adjust hiring and retention strategies to effectively compete for workers in this environment and going forward."
Key findings: n The labor crisis is not a temporary situation Call now for a tour n Former restaurant employees who left the industry prior to the pandemic, are now in more or to learn more! traditional career-oriented jobs, including office positions (30%) and teaching/education (17%) 815.834.2621 or 630-335-1886 n The employment value proposition has jbarrios@bandbfoods.com changed n 85% cite work-life balance and professional management as the most important factors in a job n Independent restaurants are viewed more positively than chains as employers n 66% view independent restaurant operators positively as employers vs. 55% who say the same for chains. In fact, 20% say their perceptions of chains as employers are negative or very negative.
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Schlotzsky's Nationwide Franchise Development Nears 100 Restaurants
Schlotzsky's, a leading fast-casual restaurant franchise known for its bold flavors and famous sandwich, The Original, announced it has Schlotzsky's prototype location in Derby, Kansas. signed more Moving forward, 99 percent of Schlotzsky’s locathan 75 deals tions will feature a drive-thru windows. in 2021 to develop new restaurants in New Mexico, Arizona, Oklahoma and other markets across the U.S., putting the brand on a clear path to sign 100 new restaurant deals in 2021.
Celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, Schlotzsky's recently evolved its prototype design to better serve guests and meet their demands for convenience and off-premises access, which in turn has led to favorable growth and development.
NRA Seeks Further Federal Aid
The National Restaurant Association has written to Congress with another plea for further federal aid for restaurants that are struggling as a new wave of COVID-19 cases fueled by the Delta variant of the coronavirus is leading some people to cancel dining-out plans. The letter urges leaders in the House and Senate to allocate more funds for the Restaurant Revitalization Fund grant program. -Source: Restaurant Business
Ill. Restaurant's Tribute to Service Members Killed in Kabul Goes Viral
As the war in Afghanistan came to a close, a restaurant’s silent tribute to the 13 service members killed at Kabul Airport quickly went viral.
If you drive down Illinois Route 177 Staff Sgt. Jordan Emrick Memorial Highway will take you to Hoyleton, Ill. “It’s a very small, farming community,” Tina Kretzer said of the town about 30 minutes northwest of Mt. Vernon, Ill.
“The military is very important to us and our community,” said LD Kretzer. Kretzer’s Bar & Grill is Hoyleton’s only restaurant.
The restaurant is closed on Tuesdays, but there’s still one table that’s occupied: A high-top holds 13 place settings with cans of beer, a small American fl ag, a candle and a “Reserved” sign. “People are giving their lives for our country for the freedom that we have,” said LD Kretzer. “They’re giving their all for us. Some of these service members are only 20 years old and their life is gone, for us.”
A picture of Kretzer’s tribute to the 13 service members killed in Kabul quickly went viral online. It’s unclear how long the memorial will stay up. “That table is a table (for) four that could turn several thousand dollars in a week’s time, and it doesn’t mean anything to us,” said LD Kretzer. “It’s more important to honor their lives.”
“I’ll leave it there for a long time probably,” said Tina Kretzer.
A fi tting reminder for the loved ones of those lost in combat that they’ll always have a seat at the table.
“We just want to say we’re thinking about you,” said LD Kretzer. “We’re sorry for what happened. I’m proud of your son or daughter that gave his life so we could have what we have. We’re truly sorry for it. If this helps you honor them, we appreciate it. That’s what we
Indian Flavors Inject Comfort Food for All
Continued from page 1
Rotating main dishes include boneless chicken curry with a mild and aromatic curry; goat leg dum biryani cooked with herbs and basmati rice; and methi shrimp with a spicy, fresh gravy. Vegetarians will be satisfied by paneer butter masala cooked with a mild spiced gravy; aloo gobi, cauliflower and potatoes sautéed in mild spices; mixed vegetable korma; spinach dal; and bagara baingan, Indian eggplants. Available on Fridays is a signature family pack serving four to six people, like the chicken dum biryani, comprised of marinated chicken cooked with herbs and basmati rice. Aloo paratha (tawa-cooked whole wheat flatbread stuffed with mashed potatoes, spices and herbs); and roti are available every day to round out the offerings. Within the last five years, Meal Village has expanded to more than 120 zip codes in the Chicagoland suburbs and city, growing 75% year over year and delivering upwards of 500,000 meals to date. Following Daily Rasoi, in 2021 Meal Ravi Ayyalaraju of Naperville Village will roll out an additional brand under the com-launched Meal Village in 2016. pany’s umbrella with healthier options, including lowersodium and heart-healthy cuisines. Their philosophy, “It takes a village to raise a child and a Meal Village to feed a family,” has made an impact on thousands of families and seniors since founding and especially throughout the pandemic. Meal Village also supports suburban non-profits and community programs, such as YMCA and local pantries, to feed youth, families and seniors.
Ordering is available up to five days in advance, or same-day orders made by noon, and they can be placed online, through the Meal Village app or over the phone. Customers have the option to choose from three delivery windows between 3:30-6 p.m. Monday through Friday to homes or offices. Meal Village covers a 40-mile radius, serving Chicagoland suburbs as far north to Gurnee, south to New Lenox, east to Oak Park and west to Huntley; and Chicago neighborhoods as far north to Rogers Park, south to Old Town and west to Logan Square. a
Meal Village, a food meal delivery service in the Chicago area, also serves American, Mexican, Italian favorites and more, including pretzel-crusted chicken (pictured at left) with broccoli and potatoes and pasta e fagioli soup (right) gar-
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Restaurant Prices Monthly Jump Not Seen Since 1981
Restaurants' menu prices grew 0.8% in July compared to the previous month, the biggest monthly jump in 40 years, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Limited-service dining prices surged 6.6% over July of last year, while prices for full-service dining rose 4.3% over the same peri-
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Century Energy Can Find the Best Deal for Your Company
Natural gas pricing is rising, which will also drive power prices higher. This chart shows natural gas price history for 2021 (Brown) compared to 2018, 2019 and 2020. Since most electricity in the United States is generated by burning natural gas, when gas costs go up, so does power. In the second chart, you can see that power for 2022-2025 is lower the further out they go (green pricing). So they can still help you find power at the right price: It’s knowing how and when to shop, which is what they know after accumulating more than 100 years experience in the energy industry. You run your company ... Let Century Energy help you manage your costs and increase your profits! See Century Energy’s ad on page 41 of this issue.
Meat Snacks Still Popular
Americans were starting to snack more even before the pandemic hit, and meat snacks that offer a clean-label protein alternative have seen increasing popularity and opened opportunities for grocers to appeal to those focused on healthier between-meal options. Whether from the fridge, freezer or ambient aisle, meat snacks help satisfy "this pursuit of protein and nutrient density in snacks, as well as global flavors," said David Wright of the Hartman Group. -Source: Food Business News
Safer Packaging Alternatives
Food and beverage manufacturers are exploring safer packaging alternatives to traditional systems as a way to give food safety a boost, writes Emily Newton: "Innovative strategies like antimicrobial coatings, portion packaging and plastic alternatives can help manufacturers make safer options."
-Source: Food Safety Tech
Devanco Foods Crowns Gyro-Eating Winner in Greektown
At Devanco Foods’ gyro eating contest at Taste of Greektown, Frank Wach won his fourth title, eating 12 gyros sandwiches in 30 minutes, winning the grand prize of $500. The contest was held Aug. 28 during the three-day Greek festival. Runner-up and past champ Teddy Delacruz ate nine sandwiches and won $250.
The Devanco Foods gyro eating contest happens yearly at the Taste of Greektown.
Columbus Veg Oils Proud of Its 90 Years
In the mid-1930s, Michael Gagliardo, an Italian immigrant, opened a grocery store on Chicago’s West Side. From there, he brought his son, Michael V. Gagliardo, on board. Soon after they expanded operations by employing a can fabricating machine resurrected from a fire at the Continental Can Company. The father and son team rebuilt the machine, set it up in the basement of the grocery store, and formed the “Eagle Can Company,” which rapidly became a formidable supplier of cans to many local, immigrant-owned companies. When a shortage of cooking oil developed during World War II, the Gagliardos were able to secure a source, and the result was a flourishing oil packaging company, which became Columbus Packing Company.
Now as Columbus Vegetable Oils, they pride themselves in the functionality and appearance of their facilities. They are constantly updating and improving their premises and equipment to keep their facility within the highest professional standards. Their commitment to constantly improving their services and procedures allows them to continuously raise the bar for value and quality in their products.
Known for their Butcher Boy brand of oils, Columbus provides a variety of vegetable oils and vegetable and animal shortenings to the retail and food service industry. Its product line consists of more than 100 items, including salad and cooking oils, solid shortening, liquid shortening, bakery oils, organic oils, specialty oils and more. Columbus Vegetable Oils processes and packages these within its 330,000-square-foot warehouse in Des Plaines, Ill.
As a woman-owned business, they are certified with Women’s Business Enterprise National Council. They believe diversity promotes innovation, opens doors and creates partnerships that fuel the economy, and so does Columbus Oils.
The company prides itself on being USDA organic and Kosher certified as well as being non-GMO and partnered with RSPO and the Rainforest Alliance. See their ad on page 48 of this issue.
QSR Market to reach $57B by 2028
The quick service market is estimated to reach $57 billion by 2028, according to a Market Research Future research report. The data categorizes "quick-service" as "fast food" and reported that the vast majority of QSRs are franchised chain restaurants, according to a press release on the findings. The store environments are focused on functionality, with a price range of $5 to $8 per meal. Menus consist primarily of portable sandwiches or burgers, wraps and a small variety of prepackaged salads. Food is often taken to go. -Source: qsrweb.com
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The Boston Beer Company and PepsiCo announced plans to enter a business collaboration to produce Hard Mtn Dew alcoholic beverage. The partnership unites Boston Beer’s world-class innovation and expertise in alcoholic beverages with one of PepsiCo’s most iconic and beloved brands.
Let Atlas Employment Assist with Your Staffing Needs
Recently, many businesses have found themselves in uncharted territory. The return to full manufacturing capacity has brought about an increase in the demand for knowledgeable staff and locating those people can be challenging.
For over 20 years, successful businesses have turned to Atlas Employment Services because of its expertise in providing temps to the food industry. Atlas Employment Services has access to a vast number of experienced food industry temps. In a tight labor market, partnering with Atlas provides businesses with an edge over the competition. Hiring temporary, or temp-to-permanent, employees provides you with the flexibility necessary to address current manufacturing needs as production ramps up.
Actively searching for qualified individuals on your own is costly and time consuming, but with Atlas Employment Services, it becomes seamless. While you continue to do what you do best and run your business, Atlas Employment Services acts as an extension of your human resources team. After talking with one of Atlas’ experts, you are provided with solutions to solve your staffing dilemma that will not only save you time and money, but are tailored to your company’s specific needs. Atlas will then work on your behalf to recruit, screen and place qualified employees while keeping your labor and staffing budget on track. Atlas’s unique ability to understand your work environment and GMPs, is one of the many reasons clients trust Atlas Employments Services.
Another feature of the personalized approach Atlas offers each client is the knowledge that all those working in your facility are in compliance with government regulations. By staying on top of U.S. tax filings and changing laws for you, as well as offering health insurance, liability insurance and workman’s comp for temporary employees, Atlas provides you with peace of mind.
To discover how Atlas can help you solve your staffing needs while you maximize your business’s performance, see their ad on page 4 of this issue.
3 Things Young Adult Consumers Crave When Dining Out
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Data from Y-Pulse Research showed three key factors that characterize the expectations of young adult consumers fueling their desire for a new normal that includes an enthusiastic return to in-restaurant dining.
Craving Connection
Food-service venues have become a home away from home for many young adults, and during the pandemic these consumers were keenly aware of their loss of this important way to connect with their friends. Although this tech-savvy generation became adept at virtual connections on social media platforms, only 44% said they enjoyed KOP Industriessharing virtual meals as much as dining out. Even with transformative changes in touch screen and On-Site Welding & Fabrication kopindustries.com kiosk-ordering, only 36% of young consumers say they prefer ordering this way. An overwhelming majority of 88% agreed that they prefer ordering from a real person when in a restaurant. Customized, On-Demand Choices
Young adults have been known to be among the most demanding of customers in terms of expecting customized options readily available to them at their convenience, yet their expectations were radically adjusted in the past year. 79% agreed that they have a greater appreciation of all of the restaurant experiences they used to take for granted. Yet, as life opens up they are ready to chart the course for a new normal that meets higher expectations. 60% said they were tired of restaurants that have pared down their menus and offer only a limited variety of items.
Culinary Adventure is on The Menu
Even though comfort and familiarity were staples on the pandemic menu for these young adults, they are ready for some culinary adventure. 81% said they like to try new dishes and flavors at restaurants. Indulgence is also part of the plan with 72% agreeing that a little bit of indulgence will become part of their regular routine. 74% said that eating food I feel good about is more important to my wellness than watch-
