Faster Foods: Exceptional Meals at the Speed of Life

Consumers are increasingly seeking fast and convenient dining solutions as part of a trend dubbed ‘Elevated convenience’. Here’s your guide to capitalising on the increasing demand for quality meals at a fast food pace.

The research is in, and one of the five key emerging trends for the food industry is that consumers living hectic lives are seeking a convenient dining solution. Think a week’s worth of frozen prepackaged meals, think meal kit delivery services, now think about your venue. How are you going to make the most of this trend in 2024?

Here are three key strategies to elevate the convenience of your venue:

1. Embrace technology

Customers are increasingly researching venues online and ordering ahead, so utilising online ordering platforms and mobile apps is a must. Offer click and collect and home delivery options where you can. AI is already having an impact so look to solutions that make use of its ability to offer personalised ordering that caters to individual preferences and helps customers decide what to order. But be sure to continue offering less tech-savvy solutions for your old-school customers.

2. Handy eats

Develop a menu that sings variety and convenience by including share plates, one-handed eats, and eco-friendly packaging for on-the-go consumption. Options include tapas-style dishes, gourmet wraps, or artisanal sandwiches that don't just taste amazing but are also perfect for a grab-and-go lifestyle.

3. Optimise for speed and efficiency

With staff shortages and skills gaps continuing to impact on the hospitality industry, streamlining your operations is essential if you are going to be able to minimise wait times and maximise customer satisfaction. Implement labour-saving products and processes, including reducing prep time by using Simplot’s high-quality products. Order frozen vegetables, snacks and sides, and plant-based products, such as Edgell’s Plant Based Tender Chicken-Style Strips, which makes portion control simple and cuts down on food waste without compromising on taste or quality—allowing you to deliver exceptional meals at the speed of life.