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Operation: The Future

Foodservice operations at retail outlets posted stronger foodservice traffic growth than any other segment of the foodservice industry in the 12 months ending last May, according to The NPD Group. This amounts to 8 billion meals and snacks bought at retail!

While restaurant traffic grew 3% over the past two years, foodservice purchases at retail stores outperformed the total industry with 5% growth in the number of meals bought for immediate consumption. Convenience stores are the most frequented channel (54%), followed by supermarkets (32%). Discount stores and price clubs, however, show the strongest rate of foodservice growth.

“For years, supermarkets and convenience stores were outlets for ‘packaged foods,’” says Harry Balzer, vice president of The NPD Group. “But the growth of the restaurant industry during the past 25 years—and especially the growth of takeout meals—has shown everybody in the food market that consumers now want ‘packaged meals.’”

Basic American Foods—which owns Harry’s Fresh Foods, a leader in supplying prepared soups, chilis, stews, side dishes, entrées, sauces, gravies and desserts to foodservice and retail outlets for nearly 30 years—is well positioned to assist retailers in growing this area of their business. Basic American Foods can help retailers replicate the restaurant experience through premium ingredients, customization and updated preparation techniques.

For a wealth of innovative, flavorful and easy-to-execute recipes and prepared-dish ideas, visit www.baf.com/recipes and www.harrysfresh.com/foodservice.html