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HAZY DAYS OF SUMMER
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– Denise Levertov
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EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT
BRIAN BURNS
Vice President of Sales
Brief Job Description:
Lead and support the Delco Sales Team to drive organic sales growth
How long have you been with Delco? 5 months
Tell us about your family. Where are you from?
I am from Greenfield, IN and currently live in Fishers, IN. I have been married to the love of my life, Jackie, for 15 years this September. We have two children, Jack (8) and Brooklyn (6).
What is a fun fact about you?
I am a die-hard skier and have only missed one season on the slopes in 36 years with my father and brothers when they closed the mountain for Covid. My son started joining us when he was 3, but we had to lie about his age and said he was 4 so they did not put him in a glorified day care. It took 6 months for him to then stop being confused about how old he really was.
Any hobbies? What do you like to do on the weekends?
I enjoy spending time with my family. Whether beating my son in Mario Kart, braiding my daughter’s hair, having a date night with my wife or reading my kids a book at bedtime, I enjoy spending as much time with them as I can. We do a family trip each summer to Holiday World. I enjoy playing golf when I can which is less often than before we had kids. I belong to the Indiana Gun Club and enjoy shooting sporting clays whenever time allows.
What is one food you cannot live without? Pizza!
AND PIZZERIAS
Crafting a Restaurant Worth Visiting
In recent years, culinary tourism has gained remarkable traction as food enthusiasts seek out authentic and unique dining experiences worldwide. Among the myriad of culinary delights, pizza has transcended its humble origins to become a global icon.
According to Technavio’s Pizza Market analysis, North America’s pizza market is set to grow by 6.11% and $51.38 billion over the next few years. For pizzerias looking to become a destination that attracts culinary tourists, it’s essential to offer more than just great pizza.
Authenticity is Key
Authenticity remains a cornerstone of culinary tourism. Pizzerias that emphasize traditional methods and ingredients can captivate tourists seeking genuine experiences. Consider the allure of wood-fired ovens, handmade dough, and locally sourced toppings. Highlighting the use of these elements in your marketing can attract tourists eager to taste an authentic slice of pizza, especially when focusing on trends that are hot in your region of the country.
Embrace Local Culture
Integrating local culture and history into the dining experience can significantly enhance a pizzeria’s appeal. This could involve creating a menu that reflects regional specialties or incorporating local folklore and traditions into the
restaurant’s decor and ambiance. Offering pizzas that use local ingredients or are inspired by local dishes can provide tourists with a unique and memorable experience. Always keep in mind that cause marketing never goes out of style. Supporting local charities etc can go a long way for the locals and the visitors.
Storytelling and Branding
Every great pizzeria has a story, and sharing this story can be a powerful way to connect with potential visitors. Whether it’s a family-owned establishment with recipes passed down through generations or a new pizzeria with a modern twist, compelling storytelling can draw tourists in. Utilize social media, your website, and in-house materials to tell your story and showcase what sets your pizzeria apart.
Diversifying Revenue Streams
In the 2024 Pizza Industry trends report by Pizza Today, catering, food trucks, alcohol delivery and adding grocery and retail items were the top ways to attract traffic and income to especially independent pizzerias and restaurants.
Invest in Ambiance and Experience
The overall dining experience is crucial. Invest in creating an inviting atmosphere that reflects the personality of your pizzeria. This includes everything from the interior design and lighting to the music and service. A memorable ambiance can leave a lasting impression on tourists, encouraging them to share their experiences and recommend your pizzeria to others.
Leverage Technology
In today’s digital age, an online presence is vital. Ensure your pizzeria is listed on popular travel and food review websites. Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews and share their experiences on social media. High-quality photos and engaging content can attract tourists who research dining options online before their visit.
of American pizzerias promote their business through Facebook.
Participate in Culinary Events
Participating in local or national culinary events and festivals can boost your pizzeria’s visibility. These events often attract food enthusiasts and tourists looking to explore new dining experiences. Whether it’s a pizza festival or a broader food event, having a presence can introduce your pizzeria to a wider audience.
The key is to offer more than just a meal; provide an experience that delights all the senses and leaves a lasting impression.
promote through Instagram.
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SEASONAL TRENDS:
MID-YEAR IN REVIEW
As we move into the second half of 2024, it's time to reflect on the trends that were predicted at the close of last year. Which ones are fading due to shifting consumer preferences? Here's a look at what's out for 2024 and what’s stepping in to take their place.
TRADITIONAL CHARCUTERIE AND SHAREABLE BOARDS
Shareable boards have taken social media by storm, but restaurant chefs are now exploring new directions. While traditional boards remain popular, the basic versions are being replaced by more specialized and diverse options. Chefs are experimenting with lesserknown Italian deli meats for charcuterie boards, like mortadella. Try a board using fresh and dried fruits or a 'Sea-cuterie' board with seafood for summer. Another example is a Mediterranean charcuterie board with hummus, olives, feta, roasted red peppers, and pita bread.
CLASSIC SPICY-SWEET COMBINATIONS
Despite the trend towards bolder flavors, consumers are seeking fresh and unexpected flavor experiences today. While honey BBQ or sweet chili flavors will always be popular, new combinations like maple sriracha or cinnamon chipotle are emerging as exciting alternatives.
YOUR AVERAGE CAESAR SALAD
In line with the desire for more complex flavors, restaurants are reinventing the classic Caesar salad. Keeping it on the menu but with a twist, we are seeing options like Blackened Salmon Caesar Salad and Caesar Salad with Grilled Shrimp, offering a new take on an old favorite.
OVERLY SWEET FLAVORS
At the start of 2024, it was predicted that nostalgic desserts like cotton candy and s’mores would make a comeback. However, there is a growing preference for flavors that feel authentic and less manufactured. Artificially sweet flavors are being surpassed by more natural and nuanced tastes.
HIGHLY CAFFEINATED BEVERAGES
With a greater focus on health and wellness, consumers are shifting towards natural energyboosting beverages. Herbal teas with ginger or hibiscus, as well as coconut water and matcha green tea, are becoming more popular alternatives to highly caffeinated drinks.
Overall, there’s a movement toward more complex flavors, authenticity, and health-conscious choices. As some trends fade away, they open the door to an array of fresh, innovative flavors that will redefine dining experiences for the rest of 2024 and beyond.
MIDYEAR 2024 UPDATE:
Trends and Innovations in the Pizza Industry
As we reach the midpoint of 2024, the restaurant industry, particularly the pizza sector, continues to evolve rapidly. From technological advancements to sustainability initiatives, several key trends are shaping how pizzerias operate and engage with customers.
Experiential Dining
To attract and retain customers, pizzerias are focusing on creating unique dining experiences. This includes live pizzamaking demonstrations, interactive cooking classes, and themed dining events. These experiences not only draw customers but also foster a sense of community and brand loyalty. A report by Eventbrite notes that 78% of millennials prefer spending on experiences rather than material goods, driving demand for experiential dining.
Community Engagement
Many pizzerias are increasing their involvement in community-centric initiatives. From hosting local events to participating in charity drives, these efforts help build strong community ties and enhance brand reputation. For instance, MOD Pizza's "Spreading MODness" campaign supports various community organizations and causes, contributing to a 15% year-over-year growth in customer engagement.
Technological Innovations
Enhanced Ordering Systems: Many pizzerias are upgrading their online ordering platforms to provide a more seamless user experience. Features like AI-driven chatbots for customer service, personalized recommendations based on previous orders, and integration with smart home devices are becoming more common.
Sustainability Efforts
Sourcing and Ingredients: There is a growing emphasis on sourcing locally and using organic ingredients. Pizzerias are partnering with local farms to ensure fresh and sustainable produce. Additionally, plant-based and alternative proteins are becoming staples on pizza menus, catering to the increasing demand for vegetarian and vegan options. According to Allied Market Research, the plant-based food market is projected to reach $74.2 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 11.9% from 2021.
What's to Come
The second half of the year presents pizzerias with a wealth of opportunities to thrive amidst challenges and heightened competition. By focusing on key strategies such as embracing digital transformation, diversifying their menu offerings, and prioritizing customer experience, pizzerias can effectively capture the hearts and taste buds of their patrons. Leveraging data-driven marketing, enhancing delivery and takeout options, and fostering community engagement will further solidify their position in the market.
