Where are restaurants winning in today’s competitive environment? Technomic, a leading research and industry consulting firm, recently shared how foodservice operators who are homing in on Gen Z and middle-class consumers and thriving. 

Watch the webinar replay: Q4 State of the Industry: Market Performance, Growth Drivers and Supply Chain Solutions. 

Appealing to Gen Z’s health-conscious and international tastes 

Gen Z diners are ushering in a new era of eating out, with a distinct focus on health, wellness and authenticity. This generation values transparency about ingredients and nutrition, often seeking out restaurants that offer fresh, locally sourced and wholesome menu options. 

Foodservice operators that cater to wellness through diverse dietary needs like vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free or allergen-friendly choices are making inroads with this important demographic. 

Culinary non-conformists 

According to a study on Gen Z trends and preferences*, Gen Zers favor fluid mealtimes, adventurous fusion cuisines, and view little treats as daily necessities. 

Furthermore, 68% of American Gen Zers cook differently from their parents, often inspired by global cuisines. 

The Gen Z demographic is eager to experiment with global cuisines and bold flavors, looking for menu options that reflect the world’s rich culinary traditions. 

Explore hospitality and foodservice trends for 2026. 

Driving success with value conscious, middle-class consumers 

With inflation, tariffs and labor costs squeezing margins, operators from quick-service restaurants (QSRs) to fine dining are having to raise menu prices. And consumers are feeling the pinch. While they’re still dining out, Technomic consumer research shows that: 

1. QSR—less perceived value for the expense
2. Fast casual—more perceived value for the expense
3. Fine dining—perceived value remains steady, but diners are pulling back on their spending 

The data shows market growth for fast casual restaurants where middle-class, budget-conscious consumers feel like they’re getting more bang for their buck. 

How a group purchasing Organization (GPO) can help save on food costs 

How can foodservice operators attract these two, key demographics? Entegra’s culinary, supply chain and hospitality industry advisors would love to speak with you about the best ways to position your business including:

• Strategic menu pricing
• Optimizing your menu or creating new ones
• Optimizing supply chain partners
• Locking in pricing
• Exploring local alternatives to combat tariffs 

Watch the webinar and reach out to an Entegra rep to put these ideas into action while saving on food costs! 

_{^{*Shardlow and Saven, Stylus, Gen Z Food + Drink Trends 24 25, April 7, 2024.}}