5 Foodservice Supply Trends That Will Shape the Industry's Future

As a restaurant owner or small business owner in the foodservice space, it's especially important to keep an eye on the trends that can shape your industry's future. Currently, the foodservice industry is undergoing major changes driven by factors like shifting consumption patterns, greater demand for takeout/delivery options, and an expanding hospitality sector. These factors, along with the rise of digitalization, the push toward sustainable and eco-friendly equipment, and evolving safety norms after COVID-19, present a number of opportunities for the market. 

For example, kitchen-purpose equipment now accounts for more than 38% of the overall foodservice equipment market and is expected to continue growing through 2030. The market has evolved to meet the demand for technologically advanced and innovative products that cater to different cuisines and spaces. Meanwhile, research and development have been focused on advancements that enable greater efficiency and meet shifting customer needs

As we look toward the future of the restaurant and foodservice industry, here are 5 exciting new trends that will play a major role in the coming years.

1. Equipment That Reduces Labor Costs and Boosts Efficiency

As restaurants look to bring down rising labor costs, many are using new technologies and equipment to build smaller, nimbler kitchens, which can also reduce the high cost of rental space in many areas. To meet this demand, foodservice equipment manufacturers are rolling out new compact, multipurpose products that can quickly complete one or more jobs in the kitchen.

Combi Ovens	Dishwashers
"Combi ovens" use steam and convection to allow kitchens to cook in multiple ways with one device. Increasingly, equipment like combi ovens and fryers can also use Bluetooth and Wi-Fi technologies to help with maintenance and other needs.	To cut down on labor costs, more and more kitchens are installing premium dishwashers that can make it possible to quickly clean many dishes without having to hire additional staff.

2. Off-Premise Dining

The restaurant business took a hit during the COVID-19 pandemic era, but the pandemic also brought on many changes that will continue to impact the foodservice industry. As we enter a post-COVID era that has helped restaurants and other businesses bounce back financially, we continue to see trends that are influenced by customers who have been staying at home or working remotely since 2020. These include outdoor off-premise dining options that kept customers safe during the pandemic, many of which are still in use today. At the same time, diners have grown accustomed to ordering takeout, and many continue to choose online delivery apps rather than dining in at their favorite restaurants.

Restaurant Configurations	Mobile Ordering	Temperature-Controlled Food Lockers
As restaurants change and update their configurations, many are turning to modular designs and products that allow them to add, remove, and re-arrange equipment with minimal cost and disruption to the business.	Increasingly, foodservice businesses are investing in products that make it easier to complete mobile orders, including both pick-up and delivery options preferred by many customers.	As takeout, delivery, and ready-to-eat options have become more and more popular, many restaurants are choosing to upgrade with modern refrigerators that can be dedicated to keeping orders at the right temperature. Some even use Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity to enable remote monitoring of temperature and more.

3. Visually Appealing and Multifunctional Cooking Equipment

With customer preferences trending toward natural ingredients and a desire to know (and see) where their food is coming from—sometimes even being part of the cooking experience—more kitchens are experimenting with ideas like open concepts and front-of-house prep, where food is prepared in full view of the diners. One way for restaurants to keep up? By purchasing and installing new, more visually appealing equipment that's perfect for these new kitchens. Options include bright, colorful ovens and fryers that draw the eye, as well as sleek technologies like touchscreens or digital replacements for buttons and knobs.

4. Automated Technology

Automation is all the rage in the U.S. right now, and the foodservice industry is no exception. Restaurants and kitchens are adopting automated technology that supports customers' expectations for fast, personalized, and convenient services that make their lives easier. The future may include more smart TVs and even drones used for delivery services. But the next big trend could be related to technologies that allow customers to order and pay without a server—which can also help restaurants to collect data on customer preferences. Examples include kiosks and touchscreens for ordering, as well as AI advancements that can take orders or interact via chatbots.

5. Buying More Equipment Online

Last but not least, one of the biggest and most important trends in foodservice is the move toward purchasing equipment online, especially for restaurants and commercial kitchens. While these businesses may have ordered in person from a sales rep or used a catalog in the past, online B2B destinations like Zoro.com have made it easier than ever for restaurants to find everything they need online and get it quickly delivered to their business without ever leaving their workplaces (or even their phone screens). From small appliances like coffee machines to major commercial purchases, such as fridges and freezers, the online restaurant equipment market is expanding more and more every year.

Trends in foodservice equipment are constantly evolving and exerting a significant impact on businesses. Businesses in the foodservice industry will need to stay on top of the latest trends and embrace advancements in foodservice equipment to ensure smooth operations, meet customer needs, and remain competitive in the years to come.

Looking for foodservice equipment and supplies to support and grow your business? Find everything you need at Zoro.com today!

Product Compliance and Suitability

The product statements contained in this guide are intended for general informational purposes only. Such product statements do not constitute a product recommendation or representation as to the appropriateness, accuracy, completeness, correctness, or currentness of the information provided. Information provided in this guide does not replace the use by you of any manufacturer instructions, technical product manual, or other professional resource or adviser available to you. Always read, understand, and follow all manufacturer instructions.