What Are Micro Markets?
Last updated on Feb 24, 2020Angalena MalavendaMicro markets are miniature food retail spaces with self-checkout technology. Along with being a large foodservice trend for this year, these new miniature markets are focused on being convenient, healthy, and simple for any customer choosing the micro market experience. Continue reading to learn more about micro markets, the differences between micro markets and vending machines, and where you might find them.
What Is A Micro Market?
Micro market vending consists of open shelves and refrigerated food kiosks that offer healthy pre-made food, fruit, drinks, and coffee, while also using an automated payment system at checkout for maximum convenience. Micro markets are also similar to vending machines, but the two types of food dispensers have various differences.
Think of micro markets as your mini supermarket. Micro markets provide customers with alternative food options to purchase for breakfast or lunch. With an easy-to-access location, micro markets are where you can grab a snack or meal and go on with your day.
Micro Markets vs Vending Machines
Micro markets may seem very similar to vending machines, but they do have their differences. Here’s a breakdown of the main differences between micro markets and vending machines.
Micro Markets
- Use of a touchscreen automated service and tap-to-pay payment options
- Modern grab and go food stand
- Open-style purchasing
- Restocked daily
- Healthier snack and meal options
- Accepts coupons and loyalty cards
Vending Machines
- Various types of payment options
- Restocked on a strict fulfillment schedule
- Dispensing can be fickle
- Enclosed-style purchasing
- Limited variety of food offerings
- Refrigerated machines for drinks
Where to Find Micro Markets
Because micro markets are extremely easy to set up, they can be established almost anywhere that provides a power outlet and reliable internet connection. The micro market also needs to have access to refrigeration to keep grab-and-go food cold and at a food-safe temperature for consumption. With the increasing popularity of micro markets, you might notice them in the following places:
- Airports
- Corporate office buildings
- Supermarkets
- Hospitals
- Academic buildings
- Hotels
- Senior care facilities
- Factories
- Government offices
- Health clubs
Micro markets are becoming more popular and do present a great business opportunity for many entrepreneurs and existing business owners to provide food options to customers. Level up any facility's food options with micro markets! Your employees or visitors will love the easily accessible and healthy food options micro markets provide.
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Back to School Shopping List for Cafeterias
For many school and university students across America, August marks their last month of vacation, which means the first day of classes is quickly approaching. Not only are students and teachers preparing and shopping for school supplies, but foodservice professionals are, too. Whether you operate an elementary, middle, or high school cafeteria or you’re the manager of a university dining hall, you’ll want to take a look at our back to school list. Read on to make sure you're prepared for the start of school with cafeteria supplies and equipment that will make your daily meal service more efficient and safe. Paper, Plastic, and Foam Disposables When you’re serving hundreds of students per day within a four hour time span, it’s important to have products that enable fast and easy cleanup. We offer a selection of disposables ranging from napkins and straws to sandwich paper and trays. Students can simply throw these products out at the end of their lunch period, which means there will be fewer dirty dishes for the cafeteria staff to wash. Below, we’ve provided a list of the most popular school cafeteria disposables, so you can stock up for the beginning of the school year. Dispenser Napkins Shop Now Sandwich Paper Wrap Shop Now School Milk Straws Shop Now Foam School Trays Shop Now Trays, Dinnerware, and Silverware The best tabletop supplies for school cafeterias are ones that offer unmatched durability, functionality, and convenience. That’s why we carry individually wrapped flatware, plates, utensils, and cafeteria trays made from materials that are resistant to cracking, shattering, and breaking. You’ll also appreciate that most of these tabletop products are dishwasher safe for easy cleanup. Shop the best tabletop supplies for school cafeterias to ensure meal service runs smoothly in your establishment. Cafeteria Trays Shop Now Flatware Shop Now Plastic Tumblers Shop Now Melamine Plates Shop Now Food Containers, Dispensers, and Salad Bars Set up an organized and presentable self-serve station with our various servingware supplies. Fill condiment dispensers with popular dips like ketchup, mustard, and mayo. You can use crocks to hold fresh veggies, salad dressings, and croutons, and set them out in your salad bar. Food pans also hold your veggies, entrees, and sides while they're being heated in your steam table during service. In order to keep your condiments, toppings, ingredients, and other foods fresh and protected from contaminants, check out the popular servingware items for school cafeterias below. Steam Table Food Pans Shop Now Condiment Dispensers Shop Now Salad Bar Crocks Shop Now Portable Salad Bars Shop Now Condiments, Seasonings, and Canned Foods Preparing lunch in high-volume establishments is already difficult and time-consuming enough, so stock up on our selection of ready-to-use consumables. We offer bulk condiments that allow students to customize their sandwiches, wraps, and salads. You can also set out canned fruit in your salad bar as a healthy side alternative. Additionally, salt, pepper, and cooking oil are essential ingredients to have on hand, and they’ll add flavor to your meals. Below, we've listed some of our consumables that are ready to be added to your favorite recipes, so you can start preparing delicious meals in your cafeteria. Bulk Condiments Shop Now Salt and Pepper Shop Now Canned Fruit Shop Now Cooking Oil and Sprays Shop Now Cafeteria Equipment In order to prepare lunches, keep food hot, and maintain speedy service, it’s important to outfit your kitchen with the proper equipment. Our selection of cafeteria equipment includes school milk coolers to keep drinks chilled. You’ll also find combi ovens that allow you to perform multiple cooking tasks in the same machine and warewashing units that can clean and sanitize your dishes. Additionally, be sure your establishment has an ice maker machine to keep ice readily available for drinks or salad bars. Check out the list below to find the equipment that's best suited for your cafeteria or dining hall. School Milk Coolers Shop Now Combination Ovens Shop Now Commercial Dishwashers Shop Now Undercounter Ice Machines Shop Now By stocking up on these essential back to school cafeteria supplies, you'll be able to prepare delicious meals for the students in your school or university. Whether you're looking to completely update your kitchen or you just need to replenish your inventory for the upcoming semester, we have the products you need. Also, don't forget to shop at WebstaurantStore throughout the year for all of your cafeteria supply needs!
Self Contained vs Remote Refrigeration
Understanding the differences between self-contained and remote refrigeration is crucial when it comes to choosing the right refrigeration system for your commercial kitchen. Self-contained units keep both the refrigeration system and the storage compartment in a single piece of equipment, making them ideal for smaller spaces or mobile applications. On the other hand, remote refrigeration systems (most common for walk-in coolers) separate the compressor and condenser unit from the storage area, allowing for quieter operation and greater flexibility in design. Let's explore the key factors to consider when deciding between self-contained and remote refrigeration to help you make an educated decision for your kitchen layout and budget. Shop All Walk-In Refrigerators and Coolers What Are Self-Contained Refrigeration Units? Self-contained refrigerators are appliances that house all of their components, such as the condenser and evaporator, inside the unit itself. These types of refrigerators, walk-in coolers, and prep tables are the most popular options used in foodservice, with nearly 90% of refrigerators used in commercial kitchens being self-contained. Pros of Self-Contained Refrigeration Self-contained units are commonly used in smaller commercial spaces due to their simplicity and ease of installation. Self-contained refrigeration systems are ideal for businesses with limited space or those needing a portable cooling solution. Here are some benefits of choosing a self-contained refrigeration unit: Ease of Purchase: Everything you need to set up your self-contained walk-in refrigerator comes in one convenient purchase. Easy Installation: Self-contained refrigeration units are designed for quick and easy installation, making them a convenient choice for businesses looking to set up refrigeration systems with minimal downtime. Space Efficiency: These units are compact and self-contained, saving valuable kitchen space that can be utilized for other equipment or storage needs. Energy Efficiency: Self-contained refrigeration systems have energy-efficient options, helping businesses reduce their overall energy consumption and operational costs. Lower Maintenance Costs: With fewer components and parts compared to remote systems, refrigerator maintenance for a self-contained unit generally comes at a lower cost as they are easier to service. Versatility: Self-contained units are versatile and can be placed in various locations within a commercial kitchen or foodservice establishment, providing flexibility in design and layout options. Cons of Self-Contained Refrigeration While self-contained refrigeration units are convenient for smaller commercial spaces, they may not be suitable for larger establishments or warmer climates. Here are a few downsides to choosing a self-contained unit for your restaurant: Limited Cooling Capacity: Self-contained refrigeration systems are typically designed for smaller-scale operations, which means they may not be suitable for commercial kitchens or facilities that require high-capacity cooling. Heat Emission: Self-contained refrigeration units release heat into the surrounding environment, which can contribute to an increase in overall ambient temperature. This can lead to higher energy consumption as the unit works harder to maintain the desired internal temperature, resulting in a higher utility bill. Noise Level: Self-contained units can be louder than remote refrigeration systems due to the compressor and condenser being housed within the same unit. This can be a concern in open kitchen environments or customer-facing areas where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. What Are Remote Refrigeration Units? Remote refrigeration units are refrigeration systems where the condensing unit is located separately from the evaporator unit. For example, the compressor and condenser of a remote walk-in cooler are typically placed outdoors or in a different area from the evaporator, such as on the roof (depending on the climate) or in a cool basement. This allows for quieter operation and better heat dissipation. Pros of Remote Refrigeration Remote refrigeration systems are ideal for commercial kitchens where noise level and heat output are a concern, as well as for spaces with limited ventilation or low ceilings. Remote refrigeration units are commonly used in larger foodservice operations such as supermarkets, large convenience stores, and commissary kitchens. Here are some key benefits of remote systems to consider: Reduced Heat Emissions: Remote refrigeration systems are located outside of the commercial kitchen or foodservice area, which means they do not release heat into the workspace. This can help maintain a comfortable working environment for staff and reduce the load on air conditioning systems. Quieter Operation: Since the compressor and condenser of a remote refrigeration system are located in a separate unit, these systems operate more quietly compared to self-contained units. This can create a more pleasant dining experience for customers and a quieter work environment for employees. Improved Energy Efficiency: Remote refrigeration systems can reduce the strain put on a compressor and condenser caused by a warm environment. If a kitchen is already warm, the unit will need to work harder to cool the items in the storage space. By placing the heat-producing components outside, remote systems can operate more energy efficiently. Alternative Installation Options: Remote refrigeration systems offer flexibility in terms of installation locations. They can be placed on rooftops, outside buildings, or in other areas that are away from the main kitchen space. This flexibility can be advantageous for businesses with limited indoor space or specific layout requirements. Scalability: Remote refrigeration systems can be easily expanded or modified to accommodate growing business needs. This scalability allows for future-proofing your refrigeration setup and making adjustments as your business expands or changes. Cons of Remote Refrigeration Remote refrigeration systems, while beneficial in many ways, also come with certain drawbacks that should be considered before making a decision for your commercial kitchen. Here are some key points to keep in mind: Installation Costs: One of the primary disadvantages of remote refrigeration systems is the higher initial cost associated with installation. These systems require additional components such as refrigerant lines, condensers, and compressors to be installed separately from the refrigeration units themselves, leading to increased installation expenses. Complexity: Remote refrigeration systems are generally more complex than self-contained units due to the need for multiple components to be installed and maintained. This complexity can lead to higher maintenance costs and potentially more frequent breakdowns, requiring skilled technicians to troubleshoot and repair the system. Space Requirements: Remote refrigeration systems require dedicated space for housing the remote condensing unit and other components, which may not be feasible for all commercial kitchen layouts. This can limit flexibility in design and may require additional planning to accommodate the necessary space for remote components. Utility Costs: While remote refrigeration systems can offer energy savings by locating the heat-producing components outside the kitchen space, they may also incur higher energy costs due to the longer refrigerant lines and additional energy needed to power the remote components. It is essential to consider the overall energy efficiency of the system to ensure cost-effectiveness in the long run. Choosing between self-contained and remote refrigeration systems depends on various factors such as space availability, noise levels, and maintenance preferences. Whether you’re opening a new restaurant or expanding your existing space, you’ll need to consider your specific needs and budget constraints when deciding which refrigeration option is best suited for your commercial kitchen.
Top Coffee and Tea Trends of 2025
Coffee and tea have long been staples in the daily routines of people around the world. In the United States alone, a staggering 73% of Americans start their day with a cup of coffee, and 51% of people indulge in purchasing coffee from a coffee shop at least once a week. Today, we find ourselves in an exciting era for the coffee and tea industry, where coffee shops are no longer just a place to grab a quick drink; they have become a hub for productivity, socializing, and relaxation. From flavor trends to operational evolutions, we walk you through the top 10 trends in the coffee and tea industry that operators should take note of to proactively meet the evolving demands within their sector. <figure> </figure> Half-Caff Coffee Good sleep is essential to good health, so many consumers are looking for ways to decrease their caffeine intake without sacrificing the flavor of their coffee or giving up caffeine entirely. Enter half-caff coffee which is comprised of a 50/50 blend of decaf and caffeinated beans. On average, half-caff coffee contains 40 to 50 mg of caffeine, compared to the 95 mg of caffeine in a traditional cup of coffee. For many, half-caff is the ultimate solution; it allows patrons to enjoy the rich coffee flavor they love while reducing their caffeine consumption. Half-caff still provides an energy pick-me-up and can help prevent the dreaded caffeine headache that plagues many who quit caffeine cold turkey. If you operate a coffee roastery, consider adding a few half-caff blends to your repertoire to meet the growing demand. <figure> </figure> Coworking Spaces In 2024, one out of every four employees worked remotely at least some of the time, amounting to approximately 35.13 million people. This allows coffee shops to serve as co-working spaces for America’s remote and hybrid workforce. To make your business appealing to remote workers, invest in a strong WiFi connection, charging stations for all your tables, and appealing decor that facilitates creative inspiration. Offer snacks for people to nibble on throughout the day or create a coffee pairing menu to enhance customers' experience. Loyalty programs can inspire patrons to make your coffee shop a regular part of their weekly work-from-home rhythm. If space allows, consider creating a conference room or quiet zone for people to either book or seek when looking for a distraction-free space. <figure> </figure> Fermented Teas Both Pu-erh and kombucha exemplify the growing trend of fermented foods saturating the tea industry, appealing to consumers seeking unique and health-promoting beverage choices. Pu-erh tea leaves are aged and fermented, resulting in a rich, earthy flavor profile with complex undertones. Produced in the Yunnan province of China, Pu-erh tea is known for its smooth and mellow taste, making it a favorite among tea connoisseurs looking for a distinctive and flavorful brew. Kombucha is a fermented tea beverage that has gained popularity for its probiotic properties and tangy flavor profile. Made by fermenting sweetened tea with a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY), kombucha offers a refreshing and slightly effervescent drink that is believed to have various health benefits. Offering kombucha on tap is a great way to set your coffee shop apart, and you can sell kombucha flights so customers can try small portions of different flavors. <figure> </figure> Coffee Cocktails The coffee and tea industry is undergoing a transformative shift as coffee shops evolve into all-day cafes, offering a diverse range of beverages and integrating coffee cocktails into the coffee shop scene. One of the standout trends is the resurgence of the espresso martini. This iconic cocktail, which combines the rich flavors of espresso with the bold notes of vodka and coffee liqueur, has become a staple on the menus of many coffee shops and bars. In addition to the espresso martini, cold brew cocktails have also emerged as a popular choice among consumers looking for a refreshing and invigorating beverage. Cold brew coffee, known for its smooth and mellow flavor profile, serves as the perfect base for crafting innovative cocktails that offer a unique blend of caffeine and alcohol. Whether infused with herbs, spices, or fruit flavors, cold brew cocktails provide a refreshing alternative to traditional coffee-based drinks. <figure> </figure> Health and Wellness Many consumers are now choosing their beverages not only for their flavor but also for the potential health benefits they offer. Recent polls show that approximately 82% of U.S. consumers see wellness as a top priority. This trend is particularly prominent in the tea sector, where a growing number of tea drinkers are seeking types of teas that promote overall well-being. Tea blends that incorporate ingredients such as ginger, black seed, ashwagandha, turmeric, and chamomile are gaining popularity for their adaptogenic, digestive, or antioxidant properties. By highlighting the potential health benefits of different tea blends, businesses can cater to the growing demand for wellness-focused products. While you should always be wary of giving health advice, curating blends for immunity, stress relief, or digestive health can help guide customers to the right tea blend for their needs. <figure> </figure> Housemade Syrups Creating their own flavoring syrups provides coffee shop owners with a unique opportunity in 2025. Not only will it help them craft unique, delicious drinks for customers visiting their storefront, but it will also allow them to bottle and sell their syrups to customers. 61% of consumers reported that brewing coffee at home enables them to save money while still enjoying a delightful experience. Additionally, 51% of coffee enthusiasts either possess or are intrigued by the idea of using syrups and additives in their coffee. By offering bottled housemade syrups, you can cater to this market segment and continue generating sales from customers who are increasingly opting to enjoy their coffee in the comfort of their own homes. Classic flavors like vanilla, caramel, and hazelnut are great places to start due to their versatility, and floral flavors like lavender and rose can help you stand out. <figure> </figure> Coffee and Tea are a “Little Treat” Coffee and tea have transcended their traditional roles as mere beverages and have evolved into indulgent “little treats” savored for both pleasure and experience, especially among Gen Z consumers. In their report, Nestle U.S. highlighted that consumers are now increasingly intrigued by new, exciting textures and flavors that rebel against the purist coffee brews of the past. This trend has given rise to creative concoctions such as charcoal lattes, which boast a striking black color and a hint of smoky flavor, as well as fruit or floral-flavored coffee drinks. This trend keeps the industry dynamic and exciting for both consumers and businesses. The visual appeal of coffee and tea has also become a key factor in consumer decision-making. Vibrant, Instagram-worthy drinks are not just desired but expected. From iced lavender matcha lattes to frozen pumpkin spice lattes, consumers are drawn to visually appealing beverages. <figure> </figure> Curbside Coffee Curbside coffee is gaining popularity as a convenient alternative to traditional drive-through coffee service. While not every location can accommodate a drive-through setup, curbside coffee offers a similar level of convenience by allowing customers to place orders in advance through mobile apps or online platforms and provide details such as the make and model of their car to ensure a seamless pickup experience. They can then pick up their order without leaving their vehicles. This innovative service allows on-the-go customers to frequent small cafes without having to wait in line or enter a store. Providing curbside coffee service can enhance the overall customer experience and this level of service can help build customer loyalty and attract new patrons who value efficiency and convenience. Not only does this streamlined process save time for customers, but it also enhances the overall efficiency of the coffee shop or tea house. <figure> </figure> Shaken Espresso According to a 2024 survey conducted by the National Coffee Association, 45% of coffee drinkers ages 18 to 24 had consumed a cold coffee beverage in the past 24 hours. One exciting trend that has emerged in response to the demand for cold coffee is the shaken espresso. Shaken espresso combines the bold flavors of espresso with the refreshing chill of an iced drink. To create a shaken espresso, baristas mix espresso, ice, simple syrup, and a choice of milk or cream in a shaker. Traditional milk can be subbed for oat milk, almond milk, or a unique non-dairy milk like pistachio milk for a lactose-free beverage. The mixture is then shaken vigorously to blend the ingredients and create a frothy texture. Finally, the shaken espresso is poured over ice, resulting in a revitalizing and invigorating beverage that is a perfect pick-me-up any time of the day. If you want to further elevate the beverage, consider topping it with cold foam. <figure> </figure> Gong-Fu Cha Tea Service Gong-fu Cha tea service, with its roots in traditional Chinese tea culture, perfectly caters to the demand for luxury and cultural experiences by emphasizing the art of tea preparation and presentation. In Gong-fu Cha tea service, the focus is on using high-quality tea leaves, precise brewing techniques, and elegant teaware to create a holistic sensory experience. The process involves multiple short infusions of the tea leaves in small teapots or gaiwans, allowing the drinker to savor the evolving flavors and aromas of the tea with each steeping. This meticulous approach not only enhances the taste of the tea but also provides a meditative and ceremonial aspect to the act of tea drinking. By offering Gong-fu Cha tea service, tea bars can differentiate themselves in the competitive tea market and tap into the growing trend of experiential dining, where customers are willing to pay a premium for unique and immersive culinary experiences. <!-- </div> --> What Is Driving 2025's Coffee and Tea Industry Trends? As we look ahead to the trends shaping the coffee and tea industry in 2025, several key factors are driving the evolution of this dynamic market. In response to these driving forces, coffee and tea businesses are adapting their offerings, marketing strategies, and operational models to align with evolving consumer preferences and market dynamics, shaping the future landscape of the industry in 2025 and beyond. Digital Exposure: The rise of social media platforms like TikTok has revolutionized how consumers discover and engage with new coffee and tea trends. Influencers and content creators are leveraging these platforms to showcase innovative brewing techniques, unique flavor combinations, and aesthetically pleasing drink presentations, influencing consumer preferences and driving demand for novel beverage experiences. Desire to Treat Oneself: In an era marked by increasing workloads and stress, consumers are seeking moments of indulgence and self-care. Premium coffee and tea offerings, such as specialty blends, artisanal brews, and luxury add-ins, cater to this desire for a pampering experience, positioning these products as affordable luxuries in daily routines. Coworking Culture: The shift towards remote work and flexible office arrangements has fueled the popularity of coworking spaces, where professionals gather to collaborate, network, and work in a shared environment. Coffee and tea have become essential amenities in these spaces, fostering a sense of community and productivity among members, while also driving demand for high-quality beverages that cater to diverse tastes and preferences. Economic Concerns of Making Coffee at Home: As economic uncertainties persist, consumers are increasingly turning to home brewing as a cost-effective alternative to purchasing coffee and tea from cafes and restaurants. The convenience and savings associated with brewing at home are driving the demand for affordable brewing equipment, pantry staples, and DIY kits that enable individuals to recreate their favorite cafe experiences in the comfort of their own kitchens. Health Concerns: With a growing emphasis on wellness and mindful consumption, health-conscious consumers are seeking coffee and tea products that offer functional benefits, such as antioxidants, vitamins, and natural ingredients. The demand for organic, low-sugar, and low-caffeine options is on the rise, reflecting a broader shift towards health-oriented lifestyles and sustainable consumption practices in the industry. In the evolving coffee and tea industry landscape, the offerings have expanded beyond traditional coffee drinks. While cappuccinos and lattes were once considered indulgent treats, they are now commonly found on menus. Businesses can boost their profitability by adapting their operational practices and keeping up with menu trends. For insights into the current state of the overall foodservice industry, check out our restaurant industry statistics.
