DELCO FOODS
FEBRUARY 2020
VOL. 25, NO. 02
CAPITALIZE ON PLANT BASED PROTEIN By Daniel Thor, Bellissimo Foods
CONVENIENCE TRENDS ROCK PIZZA INDUSTRY By Peter Thor, President, Bellissimo Foods Two news items recently caught our attention; “Grubhub deal: $10 off orders $10 or more”, and “In New York City, more than 1.5 million packages are delivered daily, every day!”. The convenience trend is morphing into more than getting convenience packages at home from Amazon. Like retail, the restaurant industry is having to adjust to changing preferences of not only delivery, but expectations for online ordering, bundled packaging, and loyalty programs. Convenience trends for delivery did not initially have much of an impact on specialty and independent pizza operators whose focus has been on better ingredients, menu items, and services for local customers. Technology has fostered changes in consumer behavior starting with retail and crossing over to foodservice and industrial. Multi-unit providers have both improved their menu and been early adopters of new technology, taking advantage of economies of scale and the need for consistency across units. Like retail, the pizza industry is increasingly facing new competition as technology is coming available to connected homes. Downloaded apps, linked with loyalty programs and often one-click payment programs are changing the game for both take-out and delivery services. Aggregator services like Grubhub and similar are also steadily increasing the choices available to consumers, while at the same time taking a significant bite out of the margin for participating restaurants. Many restaurateurs are supporting aggregators to gain customer reach and marketing efficiencies despite the economics of paying as much as 30% of the order value for the service. This threatens to destabilize how the nonparticipating traditional independent operator keeps existing customers and finds new ones. continued on page 2
A PROUD DISTRIBUTOR OF BELLISSIMO
As more people are turning towards plant-based protein alternatives manufacturers are seeking innovative ways to create products that not only taste the part of their animal influence but also stand up to the vigor of modern kitchens and the tastes of modern consumers. But what led to the introduction of this new category and why are people flocking to it? Does this latest craze have staying power, and what can you do to capitalize on the trend while it’s here? There is one simple reason why plant-based protein was introduced: The population of the world is increasing, and the more people in continued on page 3
MARKET UPDATE Dairy
PRICE
Cheese Blocks $1.8595
LAST MONTH
DIFFERENCE
$1.948 ($0.0885)
Domestic cheese exports during the 4th Qtr were up from the prior year which is a testament to strong demand. History suggests expecting only modest price declines for cheese early in the year.
Beef
PRICE
50% Trimmings $0.6780
LAST MONTH
DIFFERENCE
$0.796
($0.118)
The boxed beef cutouts are in the process of finding a winter bottom, but trade is likely to be mostly flat ahead of the springtime rally. Anticipate the lean beef trimming markets to still have an upside risk.
Poultry
PRICE
Wing (Jumbo) $1.7490
LAST MONTH
$1.778
DIFFERENCE
($0.029)
Chicken supplies are expected to remain robust throughout early 2020, with Q1 likely to run 4% - 5% larger than last year. Wing prices are on the rise with escalating prices expected into at least early February.
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CONVENIENCE TRENDS
(continued from page 1)
The parallels to retail should not be ignored. Though still small in percentage terms, most of the growth is in online digital, mobile, and connected services. Take-out and delivery are growing much more rapidly than inrestaurant service. Restaurant operators are struggling with how to adjust their business model to accommodate these opportunities whilst not negatively impacting the experience for dine-in customers.
NEW LOOK SAME AUTHENTIC TASTE At Bellissimo,® we know what it takes to make a menu – and a business – work. We’ve got all the ingredients that make Italian, Italian. And all the ingredients you need to make every slice, pasta bowl and red sauce really, really good. It’s why we’re called Bellissimo. It means beautiful. And it is. Because when you get just what you need, how you need it... it’s a beautiful thing.
There is another issue for independents who will rely on external delivery services. Once the food has left the restaurant, who is in control of the food quality? How long will it take to be delivered, and the quality of service on delivery? It’s pretty obvious that any issue with food quality or presentation will negatively impact the likelihood of reorder and perhaps the reputation of the restaurant. Timely delivery within 30-40 minutes is important, but so too is ensuring that the quality of food, when delivered, meets the consumer expectations for that order. Decisions on such services are critically important and must be viewed as an extension of staff.
Such scale, compounded by ride-sharing services and government regulations related to drivers and vehicles have resulted in massive shortages of drivers, traffic congestion, and most recently local pushback. The proliferation of aggregators is now a crowded field with likely consolidation as demonstrated by players fighting for customers with better deals. This disruption will, for a period, offer an opportunity for restaurants who push back on aggregators who want your business. The marketplace changes will undoubtedly continue to evolve. All segments of our pizza industry must realize and react to the fact that convenience trends have changed permanently and will indeed “rock” our industry. We all have a responsibility to get ahead of these changes and be at the forefront to take advantage of opportunities as presented. Let’s serve customers where and how they wish to be served! A PROUD DISTRIBUTOR OF BELLISSIMO
® Bellissimo Foods Company 2019
Look for our new packaging this fall | Bellissimo.com
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Restaurants of all sizes can make more money if they can expand their business by successfully servicing customers who want to be serviced digitally, meaning placing order via mobile app and either expedited pickup or at-home delivery. The threat of ignoring these trends offers opportunities for the likes of Amazon and other large players to offer on-line delivery-only services. Consider how to offer these services profitably by perhaps offering a limited menu which can make these options more efficient and profitable. Unfortunately, many small independent restaurants will be caught in the squeeze if they ignore the trends as retailers once did.
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NEW LOOK SAME GREAT FLAVOR Talk to your distributor about CUSTOM BLENDING your ingredients, to achieve CONSISTENTLY superior, flavorful results each and every time.
allseasonings.com 1-800-ALLSPICE
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PLANT BASED PROTEIN
(continued from page 1)
the world the harder it is going to be to feed them all. Red meat and poultry are going to become harder and harder to provide to the masses, and thus having alternatives that taste and act like protein are a reasonable alternative. People who tend to spring for a plant-based alternative generally fall into two camps. Camp A sees plantbased protein as a healthier alternative, and it’s true getting a portion of your protein intake from plants is in fact healthier than getting it from a singular source such as red meat. That being said some of the plantbased alternatives in the market, such as the Impossible Whopper, are still considered processed food, and aren’t that much better for you than the original. Camp B are those who don’t tie the plant alternatives to health but see it as a way to combat climate change and a reduction in factory farming. Whatever an individual’s feeling on plant-based alternatives there is one overarching feeling that captures both camps – curiosity. People are curious to know how plant-based protein alternatives taste; and it’s our (and your) objective to turn that curiosity into sales & sales margin. Manufacturing plant-based alternatives is currently
more expensive, but a portion of that additional cost is due to the fad being new. We have had hundreds of years to perfect the transition of a cow into a burger and it will take some time to gain efficiencies in plant protein. And while the plant rage is hot people are willing to pay more for it – thus you should make sure your menu reflects the increased cost of the product, labor and fees for stocking and cooking an additional item. In the long run as meat prices continue to rise plant-based alternatives might be the alternative that keeps pricing down. We here at Bellissimo think that there will be a general spike in the sales of plant protein alternatives, and it will slowly dissipate as certain key products become mainstays. But no matter what your feelings on the addition are, remember that every pie, pasta dish, or sub that you put into someone’s hands represents your brand. Your brand is too important to diminish with any item, including plant protein. So if you choose to make the leap and add plant-based protein to your menu, make sure that item is really exceptional and matches the same high quality product you want to stand behind. We here at BFC Distribution are working at sourcing the best plant-based items for your operation, and our network of distributors will source the best possible products as they become available. For more information contact bellissimofoods.com, or you local BFC distributor.
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find or create just the right topping. We’ve spent decades perfecting the craft of our meat toppings. For us, it’s not just a job, it’s a passion. Let’s start with a sample at BurkeCorp.com ©2017 Burke Corporation. All rights reserved.
A PROUD DISTRIBUTOR OF BELLISSIMO
53395000 Gold Medal Full Strength Unbleached Unbromated Bakers Flour
53722000 Gold Medal Harvest King Enriched Unbleached Unbromated Wheat Flour
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More of What We Love... This is the 12th installment of our What We Love Valentine’s series. In the spirit of all things love-ly, we asked employees what Delco items they love the most. Here’s what we found... “New Rishi Matcha Tea. I drink it every day!” – Cheryl Blessing, Sales Representative #421225
Super Green Match Tea
50/1 ct
“We had the Tortelloni for Friendsgiving. Since it is already precooked, it is so easy to use! Just let it thaw in the fridge and simply add your favorite Alfredo, red sauce or even butter and parmesan. It is delicious! We baked it like a casserole with breadcrumbs and parm on top and everyone loved it.” – Elaine Reasner, Customer Service Representative #320621
5-Cheese Tortelloni
2/3 lb
“Out of all the products we carry, I am a fan of the new peeled mini red tomatoes from Menu. They are great on salads, pizzas and flatbreads. Also, the brand new spicy cheese curds from McCain pack a powerful punch of spiciness and flavor that would go great on any menu.” – Austin Hendrickson, Sales Representative #1006358 #1006537
Mini Red Peeled Tomatoes 6/28.2 oz Spicy Breaded Cheese Curds 2/5 lb
“I love the spiral ham! Get one every Thanksgiving so I don’t have to eat turkey. The smoke and glaze on it are perfect and so easy to prepare.” – John Groves, Sales Representative #252371
Honey Glazed Spiral Ham
1/6-9 lb
“If I had to choose one thing it would have to be the Louisa brand meat tortellini’s. We love them so much that my family in Chicago special requests them every time I go to visit. There are many different ways to make the tortellini’s and we experiment with new recipes all the time. It’s the perfect comfort meal for when you just miss mom’s cooking.” – Lindsey Riley, Receptionist #320501
Meat Tortellini
2/5 lb
“My family and I love the French baguette from Tribeca. It’s amazing whether you’re dipping in olive oil, spreading with butter, adding to a charcuterie board or using for a sandwich. It is such a wonderful product and convenient to use.” – Steve Stobaugh, Sales Representative #130485
French Baguette
22/case
“Nueske’s and the majestic pig! We purchased a honey glazed ham for Thanksgiving again and I ate the leftovers for three days! Amazing by itself and makes a great sandwich. Also – for anyone who craves bacon – the thick sliced Nueske’s bacon is the promised land. Nextlevel bacon!” – Luke Holub, Purchasing Manager #252371 #1002362
Honey Glazed Spiral Ham Thick Sliced Bacon 6-8 ct
1/6-9 lb 6/5 lb
“I personally buy our 13/15 tiger shrimp every year for the holidays. Any customer that has tried our shrimp talks about how great both the quality and price are.” – Travis Cross, Sales Representative #371042
13/15 Raw P&D Tl-On Shrimp 5/2 lb
“Our go-to is shrimp cocktail made using a flavorful shrimp boil and St Elmo’s cocktail sauce. We also love to use a spicy dry rub and grill them. Quick, easy and perfect! You also can’t go wrong with the little cups of tiramisu from Bindi. They are cool and light with a subtle sweetness that is delicious!” – Carrie Zehner, Customer Service Representative #1006026 #222258
St Elmo Cocktail Sauce Coppa Tiramisu
6/12 oz 12/each
“Anything from the Louisa brand!” – Luisa Stiggleman, Customer Service Representative
More of What We Love (continued)...
We had so much love in our hearts for Delco Products, we couldn’t contain it on one page. Here’s even more of what we love! “I love Sy Ginsberg’s navel pastrami! This is hands down the best pastrami I’ve ever had. I like to get this product for sandwiches, but 9 times out of 10 it never even makes it to the bread before I eat it!” – Joey DeBonis, Sales Representative #252614
Navel Pastrami
2/5 lb
“We are crazy about the seafood ravioli from Louisa. Shrimp, scallops and lobster stuffed in pasta. We boil then strain and bake in an Alfredo sauce topped with a little parm. Sooo good. We also hit the 10 ribeyes from L&L Packing pretty hard. Individually packaged so thaw what you need and you’re good to go. Cast iron skillet tested!” – Mark Turner, Regional Sales Manager #320691 #1005191
Seafood Ravioli 10 oz Choice Ribeye
2/3 lb 16/10 oz
“I love the Villa Manadori Aceto Balsamico. It is so thick and flavorful, you can use it for sweet or savory. I love it over pizzas, fresh mozzarella and tomatoes. I have drizzled it over pretzel crusted pork chops. Great product, so many uses. I also love the frozen lasagna sheets and NY style ricotta. I made a few trays of lasagna with these products and it was the most fabulous lasagna. The sheets make it so easy and the ricotta is smooth, a little sweet and delicious. I can’t wait to try the ricotta in other applications. Finally, I like our meatball blend. It not only makes great meatballs, but the best meatloaf as well.” – Nicole McDonald, Sales Representative #280216 #320030 #191001 #1005089
Artigianale Balsamic Frozen Lasagna Sheet TLC Ricotta (NY Style) Meatball Blend
12/250 ml 40/4 oz 6/5 lb 2/5 lb
Employee Spotlight You may not know her name, but you most likely know her voice. Lindsey Riley stepped into her role of Delco’s Receptionist a year ago and she’s made a big impression in that time. “Lindsey has a big heart and it shows in her work. She cares about each and every customer she interacts with. Great first impression for anyone,” explains Sales Representative, Cheryl Blessing. Customer Service Representative, Elaine Reasner, agrees,“Lindsey always has a smile on her face. She is the voice and face of Delco and she does it so well!” AP Specialist, Carmela Garcia, has another reason to sing Lindsey’s praises. “Lindsey doubled her workload when she covered for me as I went on maternity leave,” she says. “It’s amazing how she managed to juggle everything and keep a cheerful attitude for eight long weeks. I was able to recover and bond with my son without having to worry about my work.” Delco Controller, Ryan Turner, explains that Lindsey was the one that stepped up to the plate to help Carmela out. “Lindsey is the ultimate team player. She volunteered for accounts payable on her own accord, making what was likely going to be a difficult situation much, much easier,” he says. It’s no surprise that Lindsey’s outlook on life is that you never have a bad day, just moments that are bad. She likes to stay positive and look at the bright side and says the best part of her job are the people she works with. “At Delco everyone is welcoming, warm and truly cares about one another. I love that!”, she says. She also points out that the pizza/food in the breakroom is nice too. In her spare time Lindsey enjoys spending time with her husband and four dogs. Her hobbies include going into the field and training their two bird dogs. Their dog, Luna, is an amateur champion and they are working to get her trained for champion status! Lindsey also enjoys crafting (she made our 2019 chef hat tree topper) and loves Harry Potter and Disney.
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Comments & Questions
Lindsey’s positive outlook and energy make her a great addition to the Delco family.
Please contact us toll free at 800.536.1234, locally at 317.876.1951, or visit us online at www.delcofoods.com. We truly value your opinion.
Lindsey’ favorite saying... “Happiness can be found even in the darkest times if one only remembers to turn on the light.”
4850 West 78th Street . Indianapolis, IN 46268 . toll free 800.536.1234 . tel 317.876.1951 . fax 317.870.7803
BELLISSIMO CHICKEN WINGS Increase Sales With This Satisfying Starter Bellissimo makes a lasting first impression with its easy-to-cook and quick-to-serve Chicken Wings. This profitable starter can be fried or oven baked resulting in a deliciously crunchy coating. Bellissimo Chicken Wings set the table to make sure your customers keeping coming back. Bellissimo offers a full line of par-fried and fully-cooked chicken items. Bellissimo distributors are the exclusive source for Bellissimo Chicken Wings. Visit Bellissimo.com to contact a representative and request samples and pricing.
www.Bellissimo.com A PROUD DISTRIBUTOR OF BELLISSIMO
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Delco Foods is a proud distributor of Bellissimo authentic Italian ingredients.
c/o BELLISSIMO FOODS 1600 Riviera Ave. Ste #315 Walnut Creek, CA 94596
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE Convenience Trends Rock Pizza Industry Capitalize on Plant Based Protein Vegetables: The Healthy Topping Market Update
A PROUD DISTRIBUTOR OF BELLISSIMO
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