As the calendar turns to 2023, it’s time to look ahead. Customers have higher expectations than ever before, overhead expenses are increasing quickly, labor shortages are still an issue, and supply chain difficulties are making it harder for restaurants to access the ingredients and equipment they need to meet the demands of their patrons. As a result, several key 2023 foodservice trends will likely dominate this industry next year. Let’s take a look at the top four.
1) Electrification & Innovation
First, many kitchens are making the transition to electric, innovative equipment. For a long time, restaurants have relied on gas. Gas heats up quickly and is predictable; however, electric equipment has come a long way, and some states are requiring new restaurants and commercial kitchens to go with electric appliances instead of gas ones.
In addition, many restaurants are switching to ventless equipment. There are numerous reasons why switching to ventless equipment is better for restaurants, and it’s important to remember that ventless foodservice equipment can only be electric. Ventless equipment doesn’t require expensive hood systems with ductwork. It can be moved if the operator changes locations. And it can provide greater flexibility in terms of locating it.
2) Lines Are Blurring Between Quick Serve and Fast Casual Restaurants
In the past, there was a demarcation between quick-serve and fast-casual restaurants. As a result of the pandemic, much of this is going away. Years of restrictions and social distancing have created new demands for a positive experience in a restaurant, and this has contributed to the re-emergence of on-premise dining. In 2023, on-premise dining will continue to bounce back, and restaurants must ensure they provide their patrons and employees with a safe experience. That means investing in air purification systems that can help scrub the air of harmful viruses and particulates, and Bluezone air purification systems can help.
3) Robust Flavors
Another side effect of the coronavirus pandemic is that people have not been able to travel as much. Even though travel is bouncing back, one of the easiest ways to explore another culture is to try new cuisines at home. Therefore, global influences that provide robust flavors will be an important trend in the restaurant industry in 2023 and beyond. Restaurant owners and managers must follow the research, provide their patrons with the unique flavors they are asking for, and separate themselves from the crowd. Using hard-to-source ingredients and unfamiliar flavors will have a positive impact.
4) People First
Finally, and the restaurant industry in 2023, people are going to come first. This includes not only restaurant patrons but also staff members as well. Staff shortages are a significant problem, and many restaurants are having a difficult time finding reliable employees to work hours. Restaurant owners and managers need to prioritize employee happiness, and that means providing opportunities for upward advancement while also allowing employees to take a break from time to time. Restaurant operators will consider equipment that makes work easier, too. Units like a separate action station can enhance experiences for customers while also make jobs easier for employees.
Ventless grill solutions from EVO and air purification systems from Bluezone can help operators deliver on the four trends listed above.
To accommodate some of these trends, restaurant managers should check out ventless grill solutions from EVO. They take up less space, are easily portable, and can provide employees and patrons with a positive experience. These versatile grills can handle a variety of meals, putting restaurants in a position to separate themselves from the crowd.
Evo is protected under U.S. Patents 9,897,328; 9,869,474; 10,139,113; 9,903,595; 10,842,540; 7,825,353 and U.S. Patents Pending.