The 2024 food show was our best yet! There was so much energy in the building, we are so grateful that our customers, suppliers and employees put so much effort to make the day as wonderful as it was. If you weren’t able to come, here were some of our favourite products of the day:
Carve Beef AAA Inside RoundCarve Premium Ontario Beef: Elevate your menu with the local pride of Ontario—Carve Premium Ontario Beef, where AAA quality meets hometown glory. This isn't just beef; it's a celebration of local farming, delivering a taste so rich and succulent, it'll have you questioning why you ever looked elsewhere (sorry, Alberta!). Our showstopper? The Carve Inside Round, perfectly paired with caramelized onion and a bold horseradish spread, served on a soft bun.
222816 CARVE BEEF INSIDE ROUND AAA FRESH - 2/11KG |
Grille and Galley Pickerel FilletGrille and Galley Pickerel Fillet: Get ready to reel (sorry-had to go for the pun) in some compliments with our Pickerel Fillets, fresh from the waters of Lake Erie. Local is not just about the taste and freshness; it's about building a narrative for your restaurant that resonates with diners seeking authentic, sustainable, and regionally focused eating experiences. The Great Lakes often remind Ontarians of long summer days spent with family and friends, evoking these memories helps you connect with your guests. Stay tuned – soon we'll have some Fresh Yellow Perch from the Great Lakes!
230125 GRILLE PICKEREL FILLET S-ON 8-16 OZ - 1/4.54KG |
D & D Poultry Tandoori Chicken SkewerHailing from an Ontario family-owned business, they embrace the flavours of tandoori seasoning, and they are Halal. Super popular and super tasty! Serve with basmati rice, warm naan bread and cucumber raita (This cooling yogurt-based dip with cucumber, mint, and sometimes garlic, offers a refreshing contrast to the spices in Tandoori skewers).
164923 D&D CHICKEN BREAST SKEWER TANDOORI - 1/5KG
|
Wow Factor Gulab Jamun Dainty CakeI must admit, I had no idea what to expect with this dessert. It’s a dough ball, soaked in rose syrup, nestled within creamy cheesecake, and topped with a delicate rose water mousse sprinkled with pistachios. This masterpiece is an East Indian delicacy that's capturing hearts and trending for all the right reasons.
105775 WOW CHEESECAKE GULAB JUMAN - 30/5.08OZ |
Mike’s Hot HoneySpice up your menu! Originally created as a pizza topping, this versatile ingredient is only available at Flanagan’s. Four bottles per case (each one is 24oz), the applications for this are endless. Add it to a chicken sandwich, grilled cheese, wings and more. First, it’s all "mmm" with the sweetness, then bam – the spice kicks in!
358743 MIKES HONEY HOT ORIGINAL - 4/24OZ |
Chicago Dill Pickle FriesPickle fries served on top of French Fries with a dill pickle ranch dressing? Sign me up! Dill pickle flavour has long been a crowd-pleaser, and its popularity is now reaching new heights, popping up in the most unexpected places. Flanagan’s takes the lead by being the first distributor to showcase the Chicago Pickle brand.
234271 CHIPCO PICKLES DILL FRIES - 1/18.9LT |
High Liner Blue CodAlways on the crest of innovation, High Liner has launched new blue cod offerings that are not only delicious but also priced to woo even the most wallet-weary customers. This whitefish is like the Swiss Army knife of seafood - incredibly versatile. Jazz up a po-boy, tossing it into wrap or mix it into a salad.
134090 HILINE COD BLUE FILLET IQF 3OZ - 1/4.54KG 134092 HILINE COD BLUE FILLET IQF 4OZ - 1/4.54KG 134116 HILINE COD BLUE FILLET IQF 5OZ - 1/4.54KG 134791 HILINE COD BLUE PAN SEAR CITRUS&HERB - 1/10LB 134793 HILINE COD BLUE POTATO CRUSTED 3.5OZ - 1/10LB |
|
Boneless, Cooked Beef Short RibsSucculent boneless short ribs, already cooked to perfection in an au jus sauce. It is tasty, easy to prepare and offers consistency for your guests while taking it easy on your labour costs. Serve with mashed potatoes, make a sandwich or toss them in bowls where the possibilities are endless.
158812 PACKER BEEF SHORT RIB AA BNLS COOKED - 5/900GM |
Maple Leaf Hot DogsMaple Leaf is famous for dishing out crowd pleasing food. In the face of rising inflation, it's prime time to tweak your tactics and lure folks in with budget-friendly eats. Enter the humble hot dog, a summertime hero, sporting an attractive price tag that leaves room for some seriously upscale embellishments (pulled pork anyone?).
179179 JMS WIENER 6" 6CT RG FZ - 1/5.44KG 179205 JMS WIENER 6" 10CT FZ - 1/5.44KG 179218 JMS WIENER 7" 4CT RG FZ - 1/5.44KG 179233 JMS WIENER 7" 5CT RG FZ - 1/5.44KG 179257 JMS WIENER 7" 8CT RG FZ - 1/5.44KG 179260 JMS WIENER BEEF 7" 8CT FZ - 1/5.44KG 179265 JMS WIENER BEEF 7" 5CT FZ - 1/5.44KG 179272 JMS WIENER 5" 12CT RG FZ - 1/5.44KG 179283 JMS WIENER 11" 6CT RED HOTS FZ - 1/5.44KG 179287 JMS WIENER BEEF 12" 2CT FOOT LONG - 1/6KG |
Bridor Peach DanishNot only does it catch the eye with its meticulously crafted appearance, but it also wins hearts with its commitment to purity - boasting a clean label and all-natural ingredients. Plus, it's ready to bake, transforming your kitchen into the sweetest spot on the block in no time.
108076 BRIDOR DANISH PEACH RTB - 42/90GM
|
Chicago Style Pizza DoughA Fresh Twist on Tradition! Out of Rich’s oven and into yours, this dough goes from frozen to fabulous in just 9 minutes. Choose how to cook: bake it in a pan for that iconic, deep-dish Chicago style experience, or go pan-less for a crust that’s delightfully focaccia-esque. Either way, you’re guests in for a treat.
126180 RICHS PIZZA CRUST DETROIT STYLE GTF - 20/100PC
|
Flavoured Cheese CurdsPountine just keeps getting more and more innovative. Elevate your menu to new heights with Alain Royer's ingeniously flavoured cheese curds. It's time to get imaginative and add some zest! From tangy orange curds, smoky BBQ curds, to the spicy kick of 3-pepper curd - can the world of cheese get any more exciting?
116008 ARC CHEESE CURD ORANGE - 2/5KG 116156 ARC CHEESE CURD BBQ - 20/500GM 116157ARC CHEESE CURD 3 PEPPER - 20/500GM |
Good Leaf GreensMy biggest surprise of the day! Who knew greens could taste this good? A local treasure that's bursting with flavour, Good Leaf Greens has truly outdone itself. Thanks to vertical farming, these leafy wonders are available all year round, ensuring fresh, delightful bites every time. And talk about pristine quality - not a single human hand touches these greens until they grace your restaurant.
283031GOLEAF NORTHERN SWEET & SPICY MICRO - 4/1.5LB 283039 GOLEAF SPICY MUSTARD MEDLEY - 8/50GM 283041 GOLEAF SPRING NORTHERN BLEND - 4/1.5LB 283043 GOLEAF NORTHERN FIESTA PREM BLEND - 4/1.5LB 283050 GOLEAF SPRING NORTHERN BLEND - 2/680GM 283052 GOLEAF NORTHERN FIESTA PREM BLEND - 2/680GM 283053 GOLEAF NORTHERN SWEET & SPICY MICRO - 2/680GM |
Made Good Blueberry Oat BarsThe ultimate snack for on-the-move moments. Made with care, these bars are a beacon of organic goodness, free from allergens, gluten-free, and proudly wearing the vegan badge. With a commitment to clean ingredients and the functional benefits that come from real food, Made Good Bars not only tick all the health-conscious boxes but also get the green light as a school-friendly treat.
364619 MADEGD BAR OAT MORNING BLUEBERRY GTF - 30/30GM |
With hundreds of innovative products to see and an array of delicious samples to taste, the Flanagan Show truly showcased the best of what the food industry has to offer. For those who couldn't make it this year, we missed having you with us and sincerely hope you'll be able to join the excitement next time. I may be biased (okay, I am definitely biased), but the Flanagan Show stands unrivaled as the premier foodshow in Ontario. Here's to hoping we see you next year!
In the digital age, a restaurant’s success doesn't just depend on the quality of its food but also on its online visibility. Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is a key ingredient in your marketing strategy, enhancing your online presence and ensuring that hungry diners find their way to you. Whether you're a new restaurant owner looking to establish an online presence or a seasoned pro aiming to revamp your SEO efforts, understanding these basics can significantly impact your online success.
Local Keyword Research Is Your Best Friend
First things first, identify and utilize local keywords that potential customers are likely to use when searching for a place to eat. You're not just a restaurant; you're a local business that serves a specific community. Incorporate local terms such as your city, neighbourhood, or nearby landmarks into your website's content. For example, if you run a pizza restaurant in Whitby, it makes sense to include keywords like "Whitby pizza," "best pizza in Whitby," and "pizza delivery near [local landmark]."
Optimize Your Menu for Search Engines
Your menu is not just a list of dishes; it's a goldmine of keywords waiting to be discovered by search engines. When creating your online menu, ensure each item has a descriptive title with common keywords related to the dish. If you serve a unique dish not often found elsewhere, be sure to include that in your menu, too. Search engines love unique and specific content.
Local SEO Directories and Citations
Consistency in online listings across different platforms significantly impacts your restaurant's search rankings. Ensure that your business’ Name, Address, and Phone Number (N.A.P.) is consistent across all listings and directories. Explore local SEO directories like Google My Business, Yelp, and TripAdvisor. Regularly update this information, and don’t forget to add photos and keep your business hours current to stay relevant.
Leverage Customer Reviews for SEO Impact
Encourage reviews on Google My Business, Yelp, and other platforms to boost your online credibility. Positive reviews signal to search engines that your restaurant is popular and business worth promoting. Be sure to respond to reviews—both the positive and the less so—to show that you value customer feedback (Google, the most popular search engine, recommends responding to reviews to improve your local SEO).
Mobile Optimization is Non-Negotiable
In a world where mobile searches often surpass desktop, a mobile-friendly website is essential for SEO success. Mobile optimization ensures that visitors have a pleasant experience, which is a factor in Google's ranking algorithm. It's also important for users to find your restaurant easily on their phones, especially when they’re out and about looking for a place to eat. Do you need help with your website? Brand Points Plus members can use points to offset this cost plus get a discount. If you're not a member of Brand Points Plus click here.
Promote Local Events and Offers on Your Site
If your restaurant hosts events or has special offers, create web pages dedicated to these topics, and optimize them using local keywords. This can attract visitors looking for something to do or a good deal in your area.
On-Page SEO Tactics for Your Website
Once you have your local keyword and content strategy sorted, focus on traditional on-page SEO tactics:
Meta Titles and Descriptions: Craft compelling meta titles and descriptions that include local keywords and entice click-throughs from potential diners.
Header and Content Tags: Use H1, H2, and H3 tags to structure your content properly. Include keywords in these headers and throughout your content but remember, keep it natural.
Content Quality: High-quality, informative, and engaging content is key. Write blog posts about local food trends, behind-the-scenes looks at your restaurant, or staff profiles, all while integrating those local keywords.
Page Load Speed: Ensure your site loads quickly on desktop and mobile devices. Search engines like Google prioritize sites that provide a good user experience.
Internal Linking: Link related pages of your website together. For example, if you have a blog post about the best brunch spots in the area, link to your brunch menu. This not only helps with navigation but also improves SEO.
SEO may seem daunting but breaking it down into actionable tasks makes it more manageable, and most importantly, effective. You don’t need to reach for perfection, instead reach for progress. Happy optimizing!
Maximizing efficiency while delivering exceptional culinary experiences is the key to managing the bustling energy of Mother's Day-one of the busiest days in a restaurant s calendar.
A delicious, time-saving suggestion that may work for your Mother's Day menu is pre-made Belgian waffles. They are more than just a time-saving convenience; they are the canvas for an array of unique and tantalizing toppings that will set your establishment apart. By using pre-made waffles, you significantly reduce preparation time and kitchen chaos, allowing your team to focus on crafting exquisite toppings and delivering impeccable service. Moreover, these waffles ensure consistency in both taste and presentation.
This Mother's Day, let these five waffle creations dazzle your clientele, leaving them with a memorable dining experience that they will fondly associate with your restaurant.
For the traditional breakfast lovers, offer waffles topped with crispy bacon and a perfectly cooked over-easy egg. The rich, runny yolk adds an indulgent touch, turning a simple waffle into a hearty meal that will keep your guests fueled for their Mother's Day activities.
Elevate your brunch menu with this sophisticated take on the classic waffle. Start a layer of tangy cream cheese. Top with delicate slices of smoked salmon, adding a luxurious, smoky flavour that is irresistible. Add thin slices of avocado for taste and a pop of colour.
A light and refreshing option, this dish combines the sweetness of bananas with the tanginess of yogurt and the crunch of almonds. It is a healthy, satisfying choice that caters to the health-conscious guests and those seeking a lighter brunch option.
This Southern classic is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of crispy fried chicken atop a waffle creates a delightful contrast of textures. Drizzled with a touch of honey or maple syrup, this dish offers a perfect balance of savoury and sweet.
For a sweet end to the brunch, serve waffles topped with baked apples, a sprinkle of crunchy nuts, and a drizzle of honey. This dessert-like dish adds a festive touch to the menu, and the comforting flavours are a fitting tribute to the comforting presence of mothers.
The Super Bowl is not only a major sporting event but also an opportunity for restaurants to attract customers during a traditionally slow sales period. By creating a special atmosphere and offering a unique menu, you can capitalize on the excitement and drive traffic to your restaurant.
1. Create a Festive Atmosphere:
Transform your restaurant into a football haven by decorating with team colours, banners, and balloons. Encourage staff and customers to wear jerseys or team gear to create a lively and engaging environment.
2. Offer Special Game-Day Promotions:
Promote drink specials such as beer buckets, cocktail pitchers, and themed cocktails named after famous football players.
3. Build Excitement with Pre-Game Activities:
Host pre-game events like trivia contests or raffles to engage customers before the big game starts. Offer prizes such as local game tickets or restaurant gift cards to create anticipation and encourage early arrivals.
4. Design a Super Bowl-Themed Menu:
Create a special menu featuring popular gameday foods such as sliders, nachos, wings, and loaded fries. Offer a variety of flavours and sauces to cater to different preferences. Don’t forget vegetarian and gluten-free options to accommodate all customers.
5. Game-Time Snack Platters:
Offer sharing platters filled with an assortment of snacks and treats. Include items like mini hot dogs, chicken tenders, mozzarella sticks, and potato skins. These platters are perfect for groups of friends who want to enjoy the game together.
6. Big Screen Viewing Experience:
Invest in large-screen TVs and ensure unobstructed viewing from every angle of your
restaurant. Enhance the audio by providing surround sound to replicate the feeling of being in a stadium.
7. Game Predictions and Prizes:
Engage your customers by hosting a game prediction contest. Ask guests to predict the final score, MVP, or other game-related outcomes. Offer prizes such as discounts, free
appetizers, or gift cards to those who make accurate predictions.
8. Social Media Promotion:
Utilize social media platforms to create buzz and spread the word about your Super Bowl event. Share enticing photos of your special menu items, post live updates during the game, and encourage customers to tag your restaurant in their posts.
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.