Operators are gearing up for a high‑stakes Valentine’s weekend as early reservations and shifting consumer behaviors signal strong demand despite economic pressure. Personalization, social listening, and premium takeout emerge as the winning strategies for 2026.
Grocers poised to win in 2026 are doubling down on fresh, using produce and meat as their loyalty engine. As GLP 1–driven habits reshape demand, retailers that simplify health forward choices and elevate fresh assortments stand to capture the biggest gains.
Pizza Hut is off to a precarious year, closing 250 locations after enduring a 5% tumble in same-store sales. Will their “Hut Forward” strategy be enough to get them back on track?
Grocers are retooling loyalty and cash back programs as value driven shoppers lean harder on coupons, timing purchases around when money hits their accounts. Clear, empathetic messaging and frictionless deal discovery are emerging as the new battleground for winning repeat trips.
Mission Produce’s surprise stock bump suggests investors see real strategic upside in its Calavo acquisition. With scale efficiencies, new prepared foods capabilities, and a tougher competitor emerging, the deal may be a rare M&A win in a volatile produce sector.
The Food Institute editorial team shares their 2026 food industry outlook in the first Food for Thought Leadership episode of the new year.
The latest FI Fast Break news podcast notes how AI-powered shelf intelligence is becoming grocers’ secret weapon ahead of events like Super Bowl Sunday and Valentine’s Day.
The Food Institute editorial team shares their 2026 food industry outlook in the first Food for Thought Leadership episode of the new year.
The latest FI Fast Break news podcast notes how 18 states are moving to restrict SNAP purchases – which is likely to result in a complex undertaking for grocers.
PwC’s Alison Furman and Paul Leinwand explain how the era of the GLP-1 is upon us, and how it’s impacting more than just food purchasing.
The latest FI Fast Break news podcast touches on the latest innovations on display at industry events like CES and the Winter FancyFaire.
The latest FI Fast Break news podcast touches on U.S. manufacturing activity and its worrisome decline over the past 10 months.
Foodservice industry veteran John Inwright shares his thoughts on the foodservice industry as 2026 begins.
The Food Institute editorial team shares their 2026 food industry outlook in the first Food for Thought Leadership episode of the new year.
Sabine Schommer and Guido Hentschke explore how ISM, ISM Ingredients, and ProSweets Cologne serve as a meet-up for the snacking industry.
