Cascades PRO conducted a survey to find out what consumers expect in terms of hygiene and cleanliness in 2023. Now they are sharing the results and discoveries to help companies respond to their customers' needs.
While hand washing is important in every season, the recent survey reveals that good hygiene is considered more important during the infamous cold season.
So how do you keep your washroom clean and comfortable during winter? We’ll give you all the tips and tricks you need to become a winter pro!
Being a winter pro means understanding users and their behavior during the winter season. The better we understand them, the better equipped we’ll be to meet their expectations and needs in terms of washroom hygiene. For example, 97% of people surveyed believe that washroom cleanliness reflects how much businesses care about their employees and clients.
So how can organizations demonstrate the importance they place on the cleanliness and comfort of their washrooms? By offering something that people closely associate with cleanliness. We're talking, of course, about paper towels.
In fact, many of the survey results reveal why consumers prefer paper!
Winter is the season for chapped hands. Especially with the freezing temperatures drying them out, our hands could do with a little relief during these few months. Cascades PRO may not offer a moisturizer, but it does offer the solution for people who prefer to dry their hands with paper - 73% of those surveyed.
Their Tandem line of dispensers makes paper dispensing easy with their No-Touch technology, perfect for those who have their hands full (hat, scarf, gloves, etc.) after washing.
This interest in paper may be explained by the fact that 61% of people surveyed use paper towels to open the door when leaving public washrooms. As a result, people have a better chance of avoiding potential viruses that could be found on door handles. This explains why 58% of people surveyed believe that paper towels are even more hygienic than other drying options.
Though there is no doubt about their hygienic virtues, the environmental impact of paper towels can be a concern for users. Indeed, according to some popular beliefs, the use of paper in this situation would be harmful to the environment. That's why, as an environmental leader in the industry, Cascades makes sure that positive and always greener actions are put in place.
For example, their dispensers are designed to avoid waste and more than 70% of tissue products are made from 100% recycled fiber. This means that every consumer can leave the washroom with peace of mind.
Whether it's a question of hygiene, good habits, values or environmental protection, Cascades PRO is a sustainable solution for time spent in the washroom. A solution that can be applied to all seasons!
If it is in fact true that it is better to give than receive, then gift cards must be at the top of a restaurateur’s wish list. These simple plastic cards could be an important marketing tool—and revenue generator—at this busiest of commercial periods on the calendar. Let’s explore why gift cards have become significant for restaurants’ success and why they make perfect presents for the upcoming Christmas holidays.
Several restaurants have gone the extra mile to make their gift cards even more enticing for customers. Some establishments offer exclusive discounts, complimentary items, or bonus gift cards with the purchase of a certain value. Here are a few examples to consider:
Remember, gift cards not only make wonderful presents but can also contribute to supporting local businesses.
With changing times, technology has become a crucial aspect of our lives. It has played a significant role in transforming several industries, including foodservice (in case you missed our show coverage, check out this blog post to read about iAssist). One such technological invention that has gained immense popularity in recent years is the QR code. QR codes or Quick Response codes are two-dimensional barcodes that store information, such as website links, menus, and contact details, which can be easily scanned by smartphones. In this blog post, we will share how you can use them to enhance your business.
The pandemic has brought significant changes in the way people perceive dining out. People are more conscious about hygiene and safety protocols. QR codes enable contactless menu and order placement, thereby reducing the use of physical menus and reducing the risk of contamination. That being said, CNN reported that 88% of people still prefer hand held menus and it would be wise to offer printed menus and a QR Code. It’s important to keep in mind that your menu is your number one marketing tool, if you’re going to use a digital menu – ensure it offers the same experience as your regular menu.
Providing the best dining experience is crucial. QR codes can be utilized to collect customer feedback and reviews quickly. All you need to do is create a QR code that redirects customers to your feedback and review page, and customers can provide their feedback in a matter of seconds.
It's a well-known fact that customers love rewards and discounts. QR codes provide a unique way to drive people to your programs, simply create a QR code that redirect customers to your loyalty program and discount pages where customers can quickly scan the codes and redeem the offers.
The rise in mobile technology and smart devices like smartphones and tablets, QR codes offer a new opportunity for businesses to target their customers more effectively. Create QR codes to redirect customers to your social media handles, prompting them to follow your pages and keep them engaged with your brand.
There are many websites that produce QR Codes. Take a look at Adobe, which states it is free forever and no credit card is required.
Whether it’s Salad, Breakfast, Buddha or Poke, bowls are now one of the more popular options in menus, and some say it may have taken over the once reliable, classic sandwich format. Packed with protein, greens and grains, bowls not only promote wellness, they also mix international flavours from various cultures into beautifully eye-appealing meals. This format is easy to make and offers flexibility for operators; already on-hand ingredients can be prepared in advance, and meals are easily customizable for customers. Bowls also offer healthy, filling alternatives, a convenient takeout option, and are usually presented in eco-friendly packaging.
Now, the question is: Are bowls just a passing trend, or are they a sustainable staple that will continue to shape the culinary world? Let’s find out.
Around 2016, the popularity of poke and acai bowls emerged and quickly gained popularity in North America. Since then, operators started experimenting with unique flavour combinations and incorporated variations of this concept such as grain bowls, burrito bowls, noodle bowls and many others onto their menus. Datassential[1] reports that “consumers have pushed for customization in foodservice, choosing everything from bowl formats to burritos to the ingredients that go into each of those that fit their individual lifestyles”. Additionally, Tecnomic Ignite [2] states that since the end of 2020, bowls have skyrocketed in terms of operator penetration. Continuing in 2021, veggie bowls became one of the leading vegetarian entrees on Canadian menus, rivaling veggie burgers, veggie pizza and salad options.[3] Bowls have been trending mostly in traditional CDR (Casual Dining Restaurants), quick service, and fast casual restaurants since 2020.
In 2022, Foodservice Equipment and Supplies also reported that bowls are “found on 34.8% of menus, up 9% over the past four years”.[4] As of today, 42.8% of operators have bowls on their menu! The top three types of bowls in the US are currently Curry bowls, followed by veggie bowls and then protein bowls. Although these types of bowls seem quite different from each other, they all have one common ingredient: vegetables.
According to Technomic Ignite, vegetables are the dominating ingredient in the growth and mainstream stage that are paired with bowls in operators’ menus.[5] The most popular ones (in the US) are onions, bell peppers, tomatoes and other vegetables such as edamame, and chickpeas. Although popular, these vegetables take time to wash, peel and cut, and chefs cannot ignore major challenges hindering their efficiency such as labor shortages or product availability. With growing demands of ingredient customization from consumers, this makes vegetables harder to incorporate to create a colourful, nutritious dish. How can fast-casual operators take advantage of this trend while maintaining productive operations? Frozen vegetables!
Arctic Gardens provides just the solution for chefs to create unique, flavourful bowls. Our Frozen Fresh vegetables are pre-cut, and pre-washed to save substantial preparation time, and cut down labor costs as well as waste. Additionally, they are available year round, and have a long-lasting shelf life ranging from 18 to 24 months. The Arctic Gardens products come in single blends (i.e diced onions, edamame, diced red and green bell peppers) as well as blends which can help operators build protein-packed bowls. Our vegetables are individually frozen at their peak of freshness, locking the perfect texture and nutrition customers demand. Arctic Gardens helps operators make veggie-bowls rapidly: operators can just portion out what they need, and store the rest in the freezer for later use.
An example of an easy-to-build bowl is Artic Gardens Brussel Sprouts, Sweet Potato and Quinoa Bowl. Made with our delicious pre-seasoned roasted brussel sprout blend, this bowl is loaded with grains, silky vinaigrette, and with a hint of crunch! Discover this great recipe here.
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[1] https://datassential.com/resource/heres-what-healthy-means-now/
[2]https://ignite.technomic.com/searchResults/menu/?&search=Bowl&id=8026®ionCountry=US&searchType=Preparation#topDishesLinkMenuWow
[3] https://www.ktchnrebel.com/bowls-and-food-trends-2023/
https://www.food-management.com/food-beverage/10-ways-bowls-are-totally-taking-over-foodservice-menus
[4] https://fesmag.com/topics/trends/20680-food-trends-the-all-in-one-bowl
[5] https://ignite.technomic.com/searchResults/menu/?&search=Bowl&id=8026®ionCountry=US&searchType=Preparation#topDishesLinkMenuWow
At this year's food show, we were proud to showcase hundreds of incredible products. With so many amazing options, it was difficult for us to pick only a few favourites - but here are some highlights from the event!
The Flanagan Food Show is where the foodservice industry gathers to look ahead into what’s new, exciting and trending in Canadian cuisine. This year was particularly special with over one thousand of people in attendance - all buzzing with anticipation! Even Elvis popped by to entertain our guests. There were exclusive deals, delicious samples and learning opportunities for attendees.
Campbell’s Bombay Style Butter Chicken SoupWhen it comes to soups, Campbell's is recognized internationally for their quality and innovation. I had the pleasure of sampling their Bombay Style Butter Chicken Soup, and I must say it was impressive. Garam masala...cumin…turmeric, oh my! The unique blend of spices make for excellent ethnic flavour. With its creamy texture and perfect balance of spices, this soup is on trend. It’s packaged in 4 x 1.81 kg packages, allowing for smaller batch preparation that is super easy to cook directly in the pouch.
191019 VERVE SOUP BOMBAY BUTTER CHICKEN - 4/1.8KG |
McCain - Corn RbzMcCain, a well-known leader in frozen potato products, now enters the world of plant and vegetable shareables with their new launch. One of their latest additions, the Corn Rbz (corn ribs), is a perfect example of the innovation in the industry today. These rib-like treats are made with sweet corn that has been coated in crispy batter. While eating them, it's essential to hold them like ribs to make sure you get the full experience. They make a great appetizer or side dish.
199297 MCCAIN CORN RIBZ - 4/4LB |
Carve Premium Ontario Beef – Prime RibCarve Premium Ontario Beef supports our local farmers and economy. They offer AAA quality beef that is aged a minimum of 21 days, which makes it flavourful, juicy, and tender. Carve showcased their famous prime rib at our show, which got everyone buzzing. The booth was so popular I had to circle back to taste what everyone was raving about. The recipe that made everyone's taste buds dance was a simple sandwich, which included caramelized onions, au jus, and Carve Prime Rib on a bun. What I loved about this sandwich was its simplicity and ease of execution that any operator could put it on their menu.
222824 CARVE BEEF RIBEYE 2X2 LIPON AAA - 2/7KG |
Mother Parker’s Cold BrewIf you aren’t serving a cold brew coffee in your establishment, you are missing out on a huge (and growing) market. Mother Parker’s Cold Brew is approximately $0.07 cents an ounce and consumers typically don’t ask for top-ups with a cold brew. This product is super easy, simply put it in the machine, and let it brew for 16 hours and voila - cold brewed coffee.
343449 MP COFFEE COLD BREW HAND CRAFTED - 15/16OZ |
Rich's Soft Whip ToppingRich's Soft Whip Topping is a game-changer for any beverage. This pourable carton contains a drinkable topping that is lighter and thinner than traditional whipped cream. The easy-to-use carton eliminates the need for any equipment, saving time and hassle. It is perfect for specialty drinks, adding a sweet cream flavour with hints of vanilla. The dollop on any drink adds value and makes the drink eye-catching. In addition, Brand Points Plus members should keep an eye out for point multipliers in the May/June Brand Points Plus flyer. If you are a Flanagan customer, signing up for Brand Points Plus is free and members can earn points for great rewards on many items.
116441 RICHS SOFT WHIP POURABLE TOPPING - 12/19OZ |
Alasko Omelet MixThe Alasko Omelet Mix is a HOT DEAL with a $5.00 off per case offer for tradeshow attendees! In addition to the savings on the product, using the Alasko Omelet Mix saves on labour as there is no need to slice or dice any ingredients. The mix contains diced onions, red peppers, and green peppers, making omelet preparation quick and easy.
197571 ALASKO IQF OMELETTE MIX (ONION & PEP) - 10/1KG |
Castello Gouda SlicesSliced Gouda? Yes please! Sampling this cheese was a tasty experience, it is delicious and authentic! Made from 100% Danish milk, hormone, and antibiotic-free. This flavourful cheese is perfect for adding a gourmet touch to burgers or sandwiches, and its smaller pack size means less waste from open products. The growing demand for Gouda makes it an excellent choice for menu items. Brand Points Plus members should also keep an eye out for point multipliers.
207865 – CASTELLO GOUDA SLICES – 8/150GM
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Seacouterie BoardThe Seacouterie Board is a fresh take on the traditional charcuterie board by combining all seafood items on one board. The Caudles team had a variety of fresh options, from traditional favorites to luxurious items like caviar. This board is sure to impress seafood lovers. The display at the show included a sampling of some of the best seafood items available. Include various items such as (230213) Atlantic Salmon, (230088) Scallops, (230046) Mussels, (230307) Oysters, (230023) Caviar, and (230230) Lobster. Talk to your Territory Manager for more fresh seafood options! |
Aviko Au Gratin Potatoes Cream and CheeseMy favourite new product of the day! These potatoes are a must try! These award-winning potatoes are made with fresh cream, butter, and cheese, and full slices of potatoes. Each portion (100g) is perfectly portioned for the ideal starch side for any meal. Their long hold time makes them ideal for banquets, and they cook in just 25 minutes in the oven. There are 90 portions in a case (6/15ea).
155992 AVIKO GRATINS CREAM & CHEESE - 6/3.3LB |
Lynch’s Maple Chili SauceLynch's Maple Chili Sauce stood out as one of the highlights of the day. The unique flavour profile of this sauce is sure to appeal to a wide range of guests, with its perfect blend of sweet and heat. The versatility of this sauce is impressive, as it can be used as a dip for seafood, a glaze for chicken, or even mixed with other sauces to create your own signature dish. One of the most intriguing suggestions was to try it on top of vanilla ice cream, which is definitely worth a taste test. It is also important to note that maple is currently trending upwards with diners, making this sauce a perfect addition to any menu.
446141 LYNCH MAPLE CHILLI SAUCE - 2/2LT
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Lactalis Shredded Mozzabene 24%Lactalis Shredded Mozzabene 24% is a great alternative to traditional shredded mozzarella cheese. This cheese, which is pronounced "mots-ahh-beneh," (learned this the hard way when I completely mispronounced it at the show) has a unique shiny texture and great taste. It stands out because it has a higher fat content than normal mozzarella cheese, making it perfect for use in high-temperature ovens or wood-fired ovens. Lactalis is one of the few producers that offer a 24% shredded mozzabene. The best part is that this cheese is still priced competitively compared to conventional mozzarella cheese. For those interested in trying it out, samples can be obtained by reaching out to your Territory Manager.
207817 LACTAN CHEESE SHRED MOZZABENE 24% - 4/2.27KG |
Martin's Potato Hamburger BunsPotato buns are the latest addition to the bread market and their demand is rapidly increasing. These buns are created with a unique ingredient which sets them apart from other baked goods - potatoes. The use of potatoes in the production of potato buns results in a bun that is slightly sweeter and softer than regular bread, with a distinct yellow hue. The resultant texture and taste of potato buns make them a versatile ingredient that can be used in various ways, from classic sandwiches to high-end gourmet burgers.
125864 MARTIN BURGER BUN POTATO 4" - 4/12EA |
Egg BitesAnother example of a trending snack that is growing in popularity is "omelet bites." These bite-sized snacks are impressively high in protein and provide a quick and easy way to satisfy hunger while on the go. The simplicity of execution makes them an attractive option for people on a tight schedule, and they are also gluten-free, providing another potential selling point for businesses catering to gluten-sensitive customers. In a consumer environment where convenience and healthiness are both crucial factors, omelet bites are a perfect snack option that caters to both. Available in three flavours:
110183 EGGSOL EGG BITES FOUR CHEESE 1/94EA 110196 EGGSOL EGG BITE BACON & CHEDDAR 1/94EA 110198 EGGSOL EGGBITE REDPEP SPIN EGGWHITE 1/94EA |
Sparkling Cranberry BeveragesOne of my favourite stories of the day! Did you know that Ocean Spray was founded in 1930 by three cranberry farmers and has since grown to include over 700 farmer families? Out of these 700, 100 Canadian farmers also make up the Ocean Spray team. All proceeds from Ocean Spray go right back to the farmers.
One exciting new line from Ocean Spray that has been garnering attention is their sparkling cranberry beverages. These refreshing drinks have a fruity, bubbly taste that is sure to please the most discerning palates. Manufactured in Canada with real fruit juice and cranberry goodness, these carbonated beverages are a refreshing alternative to traditional sodas.
463772 OSPRAY WATER SPARKLING CRANBERRY 24/340ML 463773 OSPRAY WATER SPARKLING CRANBERRY LITE 24/340ML 463774 OSPRAY WATER SPARLING CRANBERRY MANGO 24/340ML |
Wow Factor New CakesI had to sample three new cakes from Wow Factor (tough job, but someone has to do it) and in typical Wow fashion – they did not disappoint.
Don’t forget: Wow Factor has a FREE dessert menu program. If you place a minimum of 4 Wow Factor Desserts on your dessert menu you are eligible for a free custom-designed, full colour dessert menus. Talk to your Territory Manager for more information or visit app.wowfactor.ca.
105716 WOW BOSTON CREAM PIE CAKE - 2/9IN 105715 WOW NANAIMO BAR CAKE - 2/10IN 105714 WOW OLD FASHIONED CHOCOLATE CAKE - 2/10IN |
Deluxe new Duro Shoppers availableIf you're looking for environmentally friendly bags, Deluxe has you covered. Their two new large bags make takeout service a breeze and offer the perfect solution for your guests.
504859 DELUXE BAG PAPER HANDLE 10X6.75X12" - 1/250PC 504861 DELUXE BAG PAPER HANDLE 12X9X12.75" - 1/200PC |
UncrustablesPB and J with the crusts cut off? YES, Uncrustables have entered the Canadian market! A popular item in the United States, these sandwiches are not only a hit among kids but also perfect for grab-and-go locations, such as colleges, university campuses or golf courses.
108060 SMUCKR STRAWBERRY UNCRUSTABLES - 72/76GM |
FREE Activity PlacematsTo add a touch of entertainment to your menu, you might want to consider offering free kids activity mats from Egg Farmers of Ontario. These mats feature fun egg-shaped glasses that pop out, providing entertainment for children while they wait for their meals. The activity sheets are available at no cost, orders can be made online through the EggChef website. |
Browne iAssistWhen I saw a robot (a.k.a. iAssist) rolling down the aisles at the show I knew I had to investigate. I was impressed by its sleek design and functionality. The robot could smoothly move around, carrying trays with food and drinks (George Jetson was no where to be found).
I had a great conversation with the Browne representative, who explained to me how the iAssist works and who would benefit from using it. You can supplement your serving staff with the robot, allowing them to stay in the front of the house with your guests while the iAssist goes to the kitchen. Your kitchen staff can then put the food on the trays, and the iAssist will carry them back to the table. This simple process saves time and maximizes efficiency, allowing the server to attend to more guests and tables. It can also lead to higher tips for your servers, and greater customer satisfaction.
Alternatively, guests can take the food off the tray themselves, and the iAssist can still help with the bussing of the dishes. The robot has three trays, each capable of holding up to 22 lbs.
I did inquire about programming iAssist, let’s face it – no one is looking for more stress with tech. Browne will come to your restaurant and set it all up for you. Talk to your Territory Manager if you need more information. |
That’s a wrap for this year. We share our heartfelt thanks with everyone who came to celebrate with us. We were thrilled to have you join us! As Elvis would say, “thank you, thank you very much.”
Explore Our Food Show through Photos: