What Are Micro Markets?
Last updated on Oct 10, 2023Angalena 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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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 2026
Coffee and tea have long been staples in the foodservice sector, with coffee alone accounting for 8% of the U.S. foodservice industry, according to the NCA 2023 economic impact report. In the United States, coffee remains more popular than tea, but globally, tea is the second-most-consumed beverage, behind packaged water. In our increasingly globalized society, where trends spread rapidly through platforms like TikTok, the tea market is experiencing a surge in popularity in the American market. As operators in the coffee and tea industry, it is crucial to stay ahead of the curve and adapt to evolving consumer demands. Guided by our insider industry insight and research into current foodservice statistics, we reveal the top 10 trends in the coffee and tea industry that operators should take note of to ensure they are meeting the changing preferences of their customers. <figure> </figure> Protein Coffee Consumers are looking for a boost of protein with their morning caffeine fix, leading to the rise of protein coffee. According to an Aromatech study, the protein coffee market will hit $14.7 billion by 2034. While you can add protein powder directly to your coffee drinks, baristas are finding creative ways to give a protein boost, such as creating protein-infused milk for lattes and protein cold foam. Popular brands like Starbucks and Jimmy’s Coffee have hopped onto the trend, and smaller businesses would do well to adopt protein into their drinks to keep up with their larger competitors. To stand out, use protein with clean labels, offer plant-based protein options, and source protein with additional benefits like whey with colostrum to attract health-conscious consumers. <figure> </figure> Houjicha As matcha continues to rise in popularity, sourcing has become increasingly challenging. However, the solution may lie in houjicha. Made by roasting green tea leaves, houjicha offers a distinctive nutty flavor, caramel-like aroma, and a reddish-brown color that sets it apart from other green teas. It can be served hot or cold, making it suitable for various commercial applications such as cafes, restaurants, and tea shops. One of hojicha's biggest strengths in the 2026 market is its simplicity and traceability. With just tea leaves and fire-roasting, it checks all the boxes for consumers seeking transparency and low-intervention ingredients. While matcha isn’t going anywhere, houjicha is an emerging way to enjoy the benefits of green tea at a lower price tag and easier sourcing methods. <figure> </figure> Amped Up Loaded Teas Not your traditional tea, loaded teas are a mix of energy drink-like ingredients packed with stimulants like caffeine, guarana, and ginseng, as well as vitamins, herbal extracts, and sugar substitutes. Since these beverages appeal to health-conscious and active consumers, choose options like monk fruit, allulose, and stevia over artificial sweeteners like aspartame. Businesses can charge extra for added vitamins, collagen, and creatine, and offer customization options for caffeine levels (regular, half, or extra). Carbonation can also be an additional upcharge for those seeking a fizzy kick. Perfect for fitness-focused markets, consider partnering with local athletic events and setting up a well-stocked stand to sell loaded teas to participants as a pre-workout drink. Maximize your time at these events by passing out freebies to raise brand awareness and increase loyalty. <figure> </figure> Emerging Unique Flavors You don’t have to reinvent the wheel to keep up with consumer preferences; you can add trending flavors to your existing menu. One niche flavor gaining traction in 2026 is red fruit, a delicacy enjoyed in Papua New Guinea and Indonesia, prized for its antioxidants. Other exotic fruits gaining traction are yuzu and elderberry. Baristas are even playing with savory flavors, with "spring onion coffee" trending on TikTok. Largely thanks to Dubai chocolate creations, pistachio is having a moment, so offer pistachio milk as a dairy milk alternative. Earthy flavors like pine, juniper, and sage will add depth and grounding notes. Syrups are an easy way to incorporate these flavors, but you can get creative by using them as toppings, either whole or in a dehydrated powder form. If the flavor's appeal is its health benefits, market them on your menu (for example: "immunity-boosting elderberry tea". <figure> </figure> Premium Lattes Consumers want coffee drinks that feel like affordable luxuries with decadent ingredients, interesting textures, and visual appeal. Consider the viral iced cloud latte, which mimics the appearance and texture of a fluffy cloud, and the trending creme brulee latte with a caramelized sugar topping. 2026 will feature globally inspired lattes such as horchata lattes, inspired by the beloved Mexican rice-milk beverage. The classic coffee-enriched Italian dessert, tiramisu, makes for the perfect gourmet latte, combining the decadent flavors of cinnamon and rum with a protein-rich mascarpone steamed milk. Dubai chocolate has taken the internet by storm, and it’s now taking over coffee shop menus with Dubai chocolate drinks inspired by the viral pistachio chocolate bar. From a Dubai chocolate mocha to a cold brew infused with chocolate syrup, topped with pistachio cold foam, and a sprinkle of crispy kataifi. <figure> </figure> Clean, Transparent Labeling Seeking transparency and healthier options, consumers are paying more for items with clean label claims such as natural, organic, and no additives/preservatives. According to an Innova Market Insights report, 30% of global food and beverage launches featured a clean label claim in the past year. Additionally, around 30% of consumers are actively reducing their processed food consumption, and 27% making efforts to limit products or ingredients perceived as unhealthy. This includes a focus on avoiding artificial preservatives, sweeteners, and additives. Among clean label claims, no additives or preservatives lead the pack with a 14% penetration rate, followed by organic, natural, and GMO-free claims. Notably, ethical-environment claims have shown the fastest growth, with a 15% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) over the past five years, confirming a shift towards environmental values and concerns. <figure> </figure> High Tea Platforms like Pinterest have seen a staggering 165% increase in searches for "afternoon tea party ideas," and the hashtag #afternoontea garnered an impressive 182.3k posts on TikTok. Businesses can tap into the growing demand by offering a high tea menu alongside or in place of traditional brunch offerings. To stand out from the crowd, mix classic British high tea elements with modern innovations. Think unique teas like butterfly pea tea and trendy takes on traditional British bakes like swapping lemon for yuzu in lemon drizzle cake. The broader cultural shift towards experience-based dining and non-alcoholic social options is fueling the high tea revival. Whether patrons are avoiding booze entirely or choosing not to drink on weeknights, afternoon tea can serve as an alternative happy hour, allowing people to socialize with pretty beverages and light bites without social pressure to consume alcohol. <figure> </figure> Coffee Shop Oasis With the ongoing stresses of daily life, Millennials and Gen Z are increasingly seeking spaces to escape the daily grind and enjoy affordable indulgences. This is where the rise of cafe culture meets the trend of treat culture. To cater to this demographic and create a coffee shop oasis, invest in comfortable seating options such as plush armchairs, cozy couches, and cushioned bar stools. Set up different seating zones to cater to various preferences, from communal tables for socializing to cozy nooks for those seeking solitude. Opt for a mix of natural light and warm, soft lighting to create an inviting atmosphere. Consider using pendant lights, table lamps, and wall sconces to add visual interest. Use essential oil diffusers or scented candles to fill your space with inviting fragrances. Consider working with a local candle maker to develop a signature scent for your storefront and sell it as part of your merchandising efforts. <figure> </figure> Decaf Coffee As consumers are becoming more conscious of the potential health risks associated with caffeine consumption, the popularity of decaf coffee is growing. The global decaf coffee market size is projected to reach USD 28.98 billion by 2032, according to a SkyQuest study. Decaffeinated coffee is produced by removing 97% of the caffeine from coffee beans before they are roasted and ground. This process allows coffee lovers to savor the rich flavors and aromas of coffee without the jitters or sleep disturbances associated with caffeine consumption while retaining the antioxidants and perceived health benefits of coffee beans. Coffee shops can stay ahead of this trend by broadening their decaf coffee options. Coffee roasteries that develop decaf options that taste identical to their regular coffee beans will gain a market edge. <figure> </figure> Merged and Remodeled Cafes Coffee is now intertwined with various industries, and cafes are incorporating additional services. Think a yoga studio with a tea bar or a coffee/floral shop hybrid where patrons can create their own bouquets or place floral arrangement orders while sipping their latte. Cafes located in fitness-focused communities are introducing supplement offerings like creatine, collagen, and adaptogen add-ins, and then offering to serve as the start and end point of weekly run clubs so participants can recharge and connect over superfood drinks. Themed cafes, art galleries, and spaces for live performances are becoming increasingly popular, blending coffee culture and entertainment. Beyond adding other business types and hosting events, coffee shops are developing merchandising lines to promote their cafe and foster brand loyalty among customers. <!-- </div> --> What Is Driving Coffee and Tea Trends 2026? The coffee and tea industry is constantly evolving, driven by a multitude of factors that shape consumer preferences and industry trends. As we look ahead to 2026, several key influences are shaping the trajectory of the coffee industry and tea businesses in 2026 and beyond. Artificial Intelligence (AI): From automated brewing systems to personalized recommendations based on consumer preferences, AI is reshaping the way businesses operate and interact with their customers. It’s improving the production process by creating algorithms that hone roasting techniques for enhanced flavor profiles. AI is also streamlining coffee production by optimizing supply chain logistics and automating repetitive tasks. Sustainability Practices: No longer a preference, sustainability is now expected. Consumers demand ethically sourced products, eco-friendly packaging, and transparent supply chains. Companies that prioritize sustainability are not only meeting consumer expectations but also contributing to a greener future for the industry. Social Media: In the digital age, social media plays a crucial role in shaping consumer preferences and driving industry trends. Coffee and tea businesses are utilizing platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok to showcase their products , engage with customers, and create buzz around new offerings. Social media influencers and user-generated content are also guiding purchasing decisions, making it essential for businesses to have a strong online presence. Treat Culture: Consumers are looking for "little treats" to spark joy in their day. Treat culture emphasizes the importance of presentation, quality ingredients, and innovative flavors to enhance the overall customer experience. This trend is driving demand for premium drinks, flavored syrups, and artisanal blends. It also includes the rise of gourmet pastries, artisanal chocolates, and specialty snacks that complement coffee and tea offerings. Texture Stimulation: With consumers' increasingly short attention spans, creating texturally engaging beverages is helping capture and retain their attention. From fluffy cold foam to crunchy toppings, coffee shops are experimenting with different consistencies to create sensory experiences that stand out in an oversaturated and overstimulated market. 2026 is an exciting time to become a coffee shop owner. AI technology is advancing to upgrade your processes at every step of sourcing, production, and service. The public desire for indulgent drinks swings the doors of creative menu innovation wide open. The opportunity to create hybrid businesses and partner with other entrepreneurs both lightens the load and breathes new life into your business model. Whether you're integrating new trends into your existing cafe or starting a new concept, use this blog as a springboard to your ongoing success.
