As the food service industry prepares for the realities of 2023, understanding the challenges and opportunities of implementing and responding to sandwich trends will be critical for data providers. From consumer preferences to marketing and advertising strategies, this article will examine the top 10 things to consider when taking into account sandwich trends in 2023.
It is important to remember that restaurant technology providers often cater to a variety of food service industries, so sandwiches in North America may be significantly different from those in Europe or Asia, for example. With that, the opportunities to develop a sandwich and delivery business model must also be taken into account.
1. Consumer Preferences for New Sandwich Types
One of the most crucial elements to consider is consumer preferences for sandwhiches. Global sandwich preferences will continue to evolve, and provide opportunities and challenges for restaurant technology providers. Consumer preference trends will be shaped by factors such as health, flavor, and convenience. Therefore, restaurant technology providers will need to ensure their platforms are equipped to quickly identify new sandwich types, ingredients, and cooking styles in order to stay ahead of the competition. Taking advantage of data from market research companies or in-house consumer surveys can help restaurant technology providers gain an understanding of what sandwich types are currently popular in each region.
2. Localizing and Re-targeting Sandwiches
As consumers become more familiar with global cuisine, restaurant technology providers must be prepared to respond to local taste palates, as well as preferences for different types of sandwiches. For example, restaurant technology providers in France, Germany, Italy, and Spain, may see an increase in demand for baguettes, brots, bruschetta, and panini, respectively. On the other hand, restaurant technology providers in the Middle East or India may need to keep up with preferences for wraps or savory pancakes. Localizing and retargeting sandwiches to meet the needs of customers in different markets can be an effective way to win market share and boost sales.
3. Menu Innovation and the Growth of Sandwich Variety
Due to the changing tastes and dietary requirements of consumers, the number of sandwich varieties available on menus is expected to continue growing in 2023. In order to capitalize on this opportunity, restaurant technology providers must stay ahead of the game by introducing innovative sandwich recipes that will win customers over. Having a variety of sandwiches on the menu helps to ensure that customers find the sandwich that they are looking for, and it also allows restaurant technology providers to adopt a flexible approach to price and promotion.
4. Increasing the Speed of Delivery Services
As the demand for faster delivery services continues to rise, restaurant technology providers must be prepared to enable faster and more efficient delivery services for customers. This could involve using trackable apps that provide detailed information on delivery progress and allow customers to track their orders in real-time. Additionally, restaurant technology providers may need to look into creating private networks of local delivery services to reduce the time it takes to deliver orders.
5. Digital Transformation for Sandwich Businesses
The digital transformation of sandwich businesses will also be an important consideration for restaurant technology providers in 2023. In order to maximize efficiency, restaurant technology providers should look into ways to automate processes such as inventory tracking, order taking, and delivery scheduling. By investing in digital technologies and cloud-based solutions, restaurant technology providers can help sandwich businesses become more agile and flexible when responding to customer needs.
6. Sustainable Packaging Solutions
As sustainability continues to be a priority for both businesses and customers, restaurant technology providers should pay attention to the type of packaging solutions that are being used for sandwich delivery. There are now a plethora of eco-friendly and sustainable packaging solutions available, such as plant-based bioplastics or compostable materials that can reduce the environmental impacts of sandwiches. It is important to keep in mind that bioplastics and other sustainable packaging materials may come with a premium price tag, so restaurant technology providers should consider this when selecting the perfect packaging solution for their sandwich business.
7. Leveraging Artificial Intelligence
Due to itss large data sets and complex logic, artificial intelligence (AI) can be particularly beneficial to sandwich businesses. AI-enabled systems can provide analytics and insights into internal operations, such as monitoring inventory levels or tracking customer orders. Additionally, AI can help to automate customer service processes, such as responding to customer inquiries and providing personalized recommendations. With the help of AI, restaurant technology providers can provide a more consistent and efficient experience for sandwich businesses.
8. Utilizing Visual Content and Social Media Strategies
As visual content continues to be a major trend, sandwich businesses must consider ways to use this to their advantage. Visual content is often the most eye-catching way to market sandwiches, as customers are more likely to engage and remember images than text. Additionally, social media should not be overlooked as a marketing tool. Popular platforms such as Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok allow businesses to quickly and easily reach a wide audience.
9. Digital Payments, Loyalty Programs, and Automated Ordering
In an effort to keep up with customer demands, restaurant technology providers should look into ways to enable easy and secure digital payments. Digital payments are not only preferred by customers, but they also allow businesses to quickly and reliably track payments and order history. Additionally, restaurant technology providers should consider loyalty programs and automated ordering solutions as a way to build customer loyalty and repeat business. Loyalty programs often provide rewards to customers, such as discounts or coupons, for using a particular restaurant technology service. Automated ordering solutions can also help to streamline orders and improve efficiency.
10. Reinforcing Brand Messaging
Finally, restaurant technology providers should help customers to reinforce their sandwich brand messaging. In order to create a sense of trust and loyalty in customers, restaurant technology providers should look into ways to strengthen the customer’s connection to the brand. Customers should have access to a range of digital marketing strategies and content types that will help to amplify the sandwich brand’s message. Additionally, restaurant technology providers may want to consider developing a program that will reward customers for loyalty and endorsements on social media.
Restaurant technology providers must be prepared for the multitude of sandwich trends that will arise in 2023. From understanding customer tastes to providing efficient delivery solutions, there are a number of things to consider when taking into account sandwich trends. By leveraging the power of data science, artificial intelligence, and big data analytics, restaurant technology providers can develop powerful solutions for sandwich businesses to stay ahead of the competition and maximize efficiency.