What Do Foodservice Consumers Want? Insights from the 2024 DOT Innovations Show
Written by: Hannah Lopez
The 2024 DOT Innovations Show, held April 22-24 in Denver, Colorado, served as a gathering of industry leaders and innovators, all eager to explore the latest trends and advancements in the foodservice industry. DOT Foods is North America’s largest food industry redistributor of over 125,000 products, making the show the perfect platform to facilitate impactful connections. Among the myriad of exhibitors and discussions, one notable trend stood out: plant-based foods are growing in presence and influence across the foodservice industry. From mouth watering plant-based burgers to dairy-free desserts and plant based snacks, the exhibit hall was brimming with options to inspire distributors and operators alike.
Meeting Consumer Needs with Plant-Based Variety
One of the most exciting aspects of the show was the vibrant discussion surrounding plant-based foods and their role in meeting consumer needs. Jack Li, executive chairman and former CEO of Datassentials, took to the main stage to shed light on emerging food trends and the evolving preferences of consumers. With a packed audience eagerly listening, Jack highlighted the increasing demand for better-for-you options and the rising popularity of salad concepts and chains focusing on well-being. In particular, Jack emphasized the importance of addressing consumers' unmet needs, especially when it comes to out-of-home dining experiences.
As more people prioritize health and wellness, there is a growing appetite for bold-flavored, nutritious offerings that cater to diverse dietary preferences, inclusive to all diets. Jack spoke to the need for options that meet cultural cravings and shared how operators and suppliers can leverage spice as an invigorating way to connect with consumers. The discussion sparked conversations among attendees about how to enhance the guest experience and adapt menus as well as sourcing practices to align with these shifting consumer demands.
Whether it's incorporating more plant-based options, sourcing sustainable ingredients, or leveraging bold flavors, the consensus was clear: Staying ahead of the curve means listening to consumers and delivering what they crave.
Collaboration to Influence Change
Amidst the buzz around the latest and greatest plant-based foods and relevant insights on foodservice consumers, the 2024 DOT Innovations Show provided a platform for collaboration, inspiration, and discovery. It was a testament to the dynamic nature of the foodservice industry and the endless possibilities for menu expansion and creativity.
PBFA had a strong presence through many member companies serving up their latest innovations – from Tindle showcasing their new Chicken Tenders to Califia Farms crafting up delicious Cinnamon Toast Lattes with their dairy-free creamers.
The 2024 DOT Innovations Show was a first for me personally and I have to say I was blown away by the excitement and energy that was showcased on the show floor. Operators, distributors, and buyers from both the retail world and food service industry were eager to explore new flavors and the latest in product development as well as share some of the challenges around consistency of niche product availability and versatility of cross-utilization throughout their operations. The show was just the right size to make meaningful connections and see familiar faces, which creates the space for true impact – for not only those brands supplying the products but also for the hundreds of companies who serve food across every segment.
With plant-based brands taking center stage and insightful discussions about consumer trends, it was an event that left a lasting impression on all who attended. Here's to the continued growth and evolution of the foodservice industry, fueled by creativity, passion, and a commitment to meeting the needs of today's discerning consumers.