Q&A with Entegra experts 

Over the past 12 months, foodservice and procurement operators from restaurants, lodging, senior living communities and golf and leisure businesses have tapped into Entegra expertise. We hope you were one of them! 

As we head into 2026, we’re re-sharing some of the top advice as you build your business foundation for the coming year. 

Entegra experts touched on:

1. Procurement and savings
2. Data and digital tools
3. Operational efficiencies
4. Culinary solutions 

So, what resonated the most? What could you add to your strategies for the year ahead? Read on for the best of 2025 to set your new year up for outsized performance. 

1. How can operators cut costs and improve kitchen efficiencies without sacrificing guest experience? 
   Take a strategic approach: “We begin with an operational review, then recommend product matching/cutting, menu costing and menu-mix analysis, SKU rationalization, time-and-motion studies, and waste-reduction strategies — all targeted to each client’s pain points.”
   — Chef Lynn Hay, Head of Entegra Culinary Consulting 
   Read more: Ideas to drive culinary efficiency and profitability
2. What features should procurement teams consider when choosing digital tools? 
   When thinking digital, think holistically: “In selecting digital procurement tools, operators should focus on platforms that function as integrated ecosystems. The best solutions provide a comprehensive, 360-degree perspective of the organization and facilitate the entire digital procurement lifecycle. These tools enable teams to transition from manual, tedious tasks to streamlined workflows and faster, smarter decision-making. 
   — Adam Sarbudeen, VP of Digital Solutions
   Read more: How digital tools can streamline the purchasing process
3. What is Entegra’s Shopping Assistant (ESA) and why does it matter to procurement pros? 
   Who doesn’t want to find the best prices easily? “ESA is an AI-driven browser extension that layers over a distributor’s e-store and helps Entegra clients find the best prices — whether contracted or not — in real time. Instead of calling a rep to ask which product to buy, the answer appears while you shop: icons show contracted items, lower-cost alternatives and potential savings.” 
   — Jennifer Swearingen, eProcurement System Manager 
   Read more: How AI makes F&B procurement easier
4. What should you expect from Entegra’s client-service/account management after becoming a client? 
   Get ready for a true partner in your business’s performance: “Transitioning a prospect into a client is structured: teams align expectations at 30 days, 90 days and one year, create a roadmap, and use Quarterly Business Reviews (QBRs) and one-on-one interviews to stay aligned and course-correct. Constant communication and clear goals are central.” 
   Read more: How our GPO delivers exceptional customer service 
   — Pauline Poirier, Client Relations
5. What if my team doesn't see the full potential of our culinary offering? 
   Schedule a no-pressure meet-and-greet with Entegra Culinary Services to spark awareness of hidden foodservice opportunities. Here’s just one ECC voice: “Culinary services are part of a critical partnership, providing solutions that protect your margins, save money on food, labor and supply costs. An engagement with Entegra Culinary Consulting can start small. Sometimes we’re brought on to recommend a product or develop an LTO. This limited engagement brings tangible, direct benefit to a business. It’s the start of a partnership. Businesses place a value on someone being able to solve their problems and optimize operations. 
   We encourage all current Entegra clients to use the culinary services available to them through their Entegra relationship. But you don't have to be a client to work with us. Whether you visit our kitchen, or we come to yours, our chefs can help you tackle all your culinary and operational challenges.” 
   — Laurel Elliott, Chef and Director of Culinary Sales 
   Read more: Entegra Culinary Consulting: Where passion meets operational acumen
6. How can operators best explain that Entegra offers more than just GPO cost savings? 
   Don’t face market volatility alone. “I'm excited about helping our clients turn from defense to offense in their everyday operations and long-term strategies. With the challenging times we have today in supply chain, the cost of goods and labor, Entegra's support extends well beyond great pricing. Leveraging our significant investments in data and culinary, our operational expertise helps clients overcome many of their marketplace challenges.”
   — Jeff Porterfield, Chief Customer Officer 
   Read more: Business value beyond procurement 

Make 2026 your best performing year ever. Contact us to review your purchasing and procurement strategy and overall business goals.