Catering and Food Trends for 2017
If you thought that our culture could not become any more obsessed with food, then you just have to wait for what lies ahead in 2017.
According to Forbes magazine, there are various food trends awaiting us in the New Year. There predictions were shaped mostly by consumers, as people demand a more full food experience. Here is a brief list of what to look out for this year:
High Tech
As technology advances, so will the need for restaurants and catering services to adapt. In order to reach a wider demographic, we will see an increase in food spaces uses social media and offering unique online incentives. In addition to increasing consumer communication, technology will continue to have a larger role in food production.
Investing in Start-ups
It is estimated that nearly $1 billion were invested in food start-ups last year and that number is expected to increase. Investors see food start-ups as a necessity and therefore a worthy cause. Most are also health driven which appeals to a wider audience.
Down With the Masses
As the investments in start-ups increase, we will continue to see a decline in mass grocery stores and chain restaurants. Consumers crave convenience and exclusivity – which means more member-only stores and delivery services in the future. In addition, new generations of foodies have expressed their distrust in large corporations and major brands. These up-and-comers demand transparency and are more likely to support small, local businesses.
Sustainability
In addition to supporting smaller brands, more people are making their food decisions based on the origins of what they are eating. These means businesses must invest in local, sustainable and natural foods. Customers now make culinary decisions based on where and how their food is grown.
Overall, the trends we will experience in 2017 are health conscious and beneficial for small businesses. These apply to various food options including food trucks, restaurants, grocery stores and catering services. In addition to the trends listed above, more caterers are experimenting with self-serve bars, including more international dishes and offering unique, hand-crafted small plates.
What do you see for the future of food in 2017?
Written by: Natalie Earhart