THE INTELLIGENCE
Research: Diners look for more than good food
A newly released Y-Pulse (part of Olson Communications) study of moms of 4- to 17-year-old children found that when it comes to choosing restaurants, 74% of those surveyed said the philosophy of a restaurant is just as important to them as the food. They also like to know that employees are appreciated, with 95% reporting that they like to patronize establishments known for treating their employees well. Additionally, in-restaurant dining offers a chance to try new things with 81% saying they like to try new dishes and flavors when they dine in a casual restaurant. Seeking new food experiences is not limited to in-restaurant dining; 77% like to try new things when they order take out. Take out is also an opportunity to try new restaurants for 79% of survey participants. Restaurant operators that continue to sell retail items from their establishments are finding favor with 70% of moms saying they would buy grocery items at a local restaurant.
The 850-unit beverage chain Jamba unveiled some updates to its Jamba by Blendid robotic smoothie kiosk. The updated versions – in addition to the existing robotic arm mixing smoothies – now feature googly eyes and a dance routine, along with a new, artistic paint job meant to personalize the experience for customers, chain executives said. Jamba worked with branding agency Gestalt Brand Lab on the new look, which will make its debut at a Jamba by Blendid location in UCLA’s Ackerman Student Union.
Stellar Pizza, an automated food truck designed by former SpaceX engineers, gained extra funding. Led by Jay-Z’s venture capital firm Marcy Venture Partners, the concept announced a $16.5m financing round on top of a previously reported $9m investment. The trucks are operated by one driver and can produce 420 12-inch pizzas, each made in about five minutes.
Healthy, Hunger- Free Kids Act, 10 years on
A new report by the USDA, Trends in USDA Foods Ordered for Child Nutrition Programs Before and After Updated Nutrition Standards, showed that the passage of the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act in 2010 resulted in increased fruit and vegetable purchase – 6% to be exact. The revised nutrition standards, which began to be implemented in 2012, required school meals to include whole-grain-rich foods, more fruits and legumes, and a broader mix of vegetables.
TGI Fridays announced the development of 75 new restaurants throughout South and Southeast Asia over the next 10 years in partnership with master franchisor, Universal Success Enterprises. The deal, which is expected to drive over $500m in revenue for the US-based company over 10 years, is the most significant development agreement to date for the brand.
23
CHAIN NEWS
THE AMERICAS
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