Labor pressures may be easing on paper, but F&B operators still face a churn driven engagement crisis that’s reshaping workforce expectations. As employees seek meaning and stability, AI powered tools are under the microscope.
High income shoppers are finally tightening their belts in 2026, signaling an economy where everyone feels the squeeze. Experts say the downturn may linger, but consumers still splurge selectively – rewarding brands that double down on quality.
Heineken’s recent layoffs underscore a broader shake-up in beverage manufacturing as automation rises and beer volumes fall. Brewers are pushing for higher margin innovation and tighter brand portfolios to stabilize a shrinking category.
The Specialty Food Association (SFA) today announced the forthcoming launch of a new data and insights tool developed in partnership with MenuData and The Food Institute.
Restaurant chains winning the mobile app race are doing it by reclaiming margins from third‑party platforms and turning digital ordering into habit, not hassle. The leaders pair frictionless UX with exclusivity, personalization, and first‑party data.
Nik Modi of RBC Capital Markets discusses the impacts of GLP-1s, price cuts, agentic commerce, and more on the food and beverage sector.
The latest FI Fast Break news podcast touches on restaurants’ plans for a high-stakes Valentine’s weekend.
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.
