What Are Micro Markets?
Micro 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 2024
In 2024, coffee culture will become more enigmatic than ever before. To attract customers, coffee professionals are using unique brewing methods, catering to the ready-to-drink market, and creating extravagant presentations. When tea rose to prominence in 2023, most coffee shops started offering tea lattes, kombucha, and loose-leaf teas. Modern coffee shop food menus are often extensive, events are common, and wine lists aren’t out of place. Perhaps it's time to put the term "coffee shop" to rest in favor of "all-day cafe". From trends affecting the entire foodservice industry to menu trends, discover what you can expect to see emerge in the nonalcoholic beverage industry this year. <figure> </figure> Premiumization While it may seem counterintuitive given rising costs for both customers and operators, premiumization is key to coffee shops' success in 2024. Considering hard economic times, customers want their coffee shop drink to offer a pretty distraction that feels like a treat and looks great in photos. Many customers learned how to make specialty coffee drinks, (ex. Dalgona Coffee) at home during the pandemic, so, if they’re going to spend money at a coffee shop, they want to be served something they cannot create themselves (at least not without great difficulty). <figure> </figure> Coffee Food Trucks and Carts Coffee food trucks and carts have a lower startup cost than opening a coffee shop storefront. During this economically challenging year, mobile vending will allow new entrepreneurs to enter the coffee market, and storefront owners who are having difficulty breaking even can shift to this model to remain profitable. Another benefit of starting a food truck is it allows you to go to your target audience. Park your food truck near college campuses, hospitals, and sports stadiums. You can also set up booths at farmers' markets and other local events. <figure> </figure> Hybrid Business Models Coffee shops that only sell coffee are almost non-existent, and even creative coffee and food pairings aren’t enough to stand out anymore. Many coffee businesses are offering other services like bookstores, Pilates, and sober bars to attract more customers. What's even more cost-effective is to approach an existing business and ask to add a coffee program to their operation. By adding on to a business with a location and core customer base already in place, you can cut your operational costs and reduce the need to advertise. <figure> </figure> Tea Bombs Tea bombs are a blend of tea and botanicals encased within a dissolvable, isomalt sugar shell. When hot water is poured over the sugar globe, it dissolves and adds sweetness to the beverage while enabling the tea ingredients to steep. With their captivating visual appeal and unique flavor profiles, tea bombs have taken TikTok by storm and become a huge hit among tea enthusiasts. Coffee shops and tea bars will be creating a luxurious experience for their customers by adding tea bombs to their menus in 2024. <figure> </figure> Themed Pop-Up Events Operators are embellishing the aesthetic of their coffee shop and coming up with creative menu items for themed pop-ups and events. Themed pop-ups, like transforming your business into Central Perk from the sitcom Friends, can draw huge crowds, especially if it's advertised on TikTok and other social media platforms. To be successful, play into pop culture with cult followings. Examples are offering a Hobbit Day menu on September 22nd, a Star Wars theme on May 4th, or playing into fall vibes by creating a Gilmore Girls-inspired Stars Hollow Fall Festival pop-up. These events are also great opportunities to sell themed, branded merchandise. <figure> </figure> Floral Tisanes Floral flavors like jasmine, rose, lavender, hibiscus, and eucalyptus are expected to experience steady growth in the year 2024 according to Jaime Lynn Lawrence, an R&D application scientist at Flavor Insights. This projection is based on the ever-increasing demand for health and wellness products among consumers. Since the rise of tea is dually motivated by its artfulness and health benefits, floral tisanes align perfectly with both motivating factors. Lavender is known for its calming properties, while hibiscus is rich in antioxidants. Floral teas also create a luxurious feeling, especially when garnished with edible flowers. <figure> </figure> Cold Foam According to Texas Coffee School, cold coffee drinks outnumber hot coffee drinks year-round, and they’re a favorite amongst Gen Z. Cold foam has gained celebrity status alongside the trend towards cold coffee. Cold foam turns cold brew into a gourmet beverage that rivals lattes and cappuccinos. Coffee shops will continue to come up with creative cold foam flavors to enhance their iced coffees and cold brews. Cold foam can act as a pillowy shelf to hold sprinkled-on sweet treats like cookie crumbles, spices, and chopped candies, creating Instagram-worthy drinks. <figure> </figure> DIY Tea Blends As tea continues to gain traction with Gen Z, a creative trend is to offer patrons the opportunity to build their own tea blend. Customers can choose from different types of tea and tisane ingredients to create a DIY tea blend that suits their personal flavor preferences. Operators can either brew their customers' DIY tea or sell it for them to take home. Patrons increasingly want to customize their beverages, and they also are looking for unique experiences when they go out. DIY tea blends are an excellent way to capture both trends and fulfill consumer preferences. <figure> </figure> Drive-Thrus Drive-thru coffee has become an increasingly popular option for busy Americans on the go. Statistics reveal that a staggering 50 percent of Americans now prefer to get their coffee from drive-thru operations. This trend is driven by the convenience and speed that an efficient drive-thru offers. With this significant demand, many coffee shops are adding drive-thrus or even adopting a drive-thru-only business model. <figure> </figure> Blue Moon Thai Tea Blue moon Thai tea is a trendy and refreshing beverage that will gain mainstream popularity in 2024. This unique drink is a blend of butterfly pea tea, black tea, and sweetened condensed milk, giving it a creamy and slightly sweet flavor. Blue moon Thai tea is often served over ice and topped with boba pearls. Its vibrant blue hue and delicious flavor have blue moon Thai tea trending in coffee shops as well as traditional boba businesses. <!-- </div> --> What Is Driving 2024's Coffee and Tea Industry Trends? Digital exposure to trends, a post-pandemic mindset shift, and the economic climate are the key drivers behind the coffee and tea industry trends in 2024. The public is highly engaged with social media; the average daily time spent on social media apps is 3.5 hours in America, which equates to 1,300 hours a year according to a Uswitch study. Subsequently, consumers are exposed to a plethora of information and trends, shaping their preferences and choices. Another driving force is the lasting fallout from the pandemic which created a mindset shift towards prioritizing health, wellness, and sustainability. This shift has led to an increased demand for specialty and functional beverages, such as herbal teas and organic, single-origin coffee. Lastly, the economic climate plays a crucial role, as businesses adapt to changing consumer behaviors and preferences while navigating the challenges posed by supply chain disruptions and rising costs. 1. Digital Exposure: In our digital age, we are exposed to countless trends, cultural traditions, and information throughout the day. Customers expect the same breadth of options and creativity in their reality as they see online. 2. Post-Pandemic Mindset Shift: In a post-pandemic world, the consumer desires either convenience or experiential foodservice experiences they can’t get at home. 3. Economic Climate: Many of these innovations are driven by the resourcefulness of operators working to stay afloat. With rising costs, coffee professionals must be strategic in how they operate and increase the perceived value of their services. Long gone are the days when coffee shops just offered classic coffee drinks. While traditional cappuccinos and lattes were once luxuries, they've become commonplace. From changes in operational practices to menu trends, reference back to our list of the top coffee and tea industry trends of 2024 to increase your profit margins. Read our roundup of relevant restaurant industry statistics for a comprehensive view of the current state of the foodservice industry. <aside class="pquote"> <blockquote> The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice. Please refer to our Content Policy for more details. </blockquote> </aside>
