Business & Industry

How B&I catering is evolving in a post-pandemic, hybrid workforce

The COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped consumer expectations in the Business & Industry (B&I) sector, especially with the rise of hybrid work models, where flexibility is key. With employees now spending an average of two days per week working from home, traditional catering demand has shifted, requiring new approaches that meet the diverse needs of a changing workforce.

As work patterns evolve, so do generational preferences for food.

Generation Z, set to make up 27% of the workforce by 2025, prioritizes mindful eating and wellness-driven meals that support both physical and mental health. They seek nutrient-dense, convenient options aligned with sustainability and ethical sourcing. Similarly, Millennials focus on health, favouring plant-based, eco-friendly, and organic ingredients while embracing digital solutions like mobile ordering and customizable meals. Their strong commitment to sustainability makes them loyal to brands with environmental values.

Generation X, juggling work and family, seeks convenience and efficiency. They appreciate ready-to-eat meals, self-service kiosks, and online ordering, while still valuing comfort and familiar flavors, leaning toward balanced nutrition with fresh ingredients. Baby Boomers prioritize simplicity and quality, focusing on nutritional value, portion control, and traditional comfort foods. While they also appreciate convenience, Boomers favour relaxed dining experiences that allow for enjoyment and socialization.

By understanding these varied expectations, B&I players can create flexible, convenient, and wellness-driven offerings that cater to each generation’s needs in this evolving workplace.

Thriving as a chef: mastering health-driven and versatile menus

As a chef in this sector, you will face significant challenges and opportunities as consumer behaviour and workplace trends shift. You’ll need to place a greater focus on health-driven menus, offering customizable, nutrient-rich options. Pre-packaged, nutritious grab-and-go meals will cater to hybrid workers, while plant-based dishes and eco-friendly packaging will allow you to stay aligned with sustainability trends. To attract younger consumers, you can incorporate street food-inspired and fusion cuisines, while pre-cooked meals for self-service kiosks will become a practical solution. Ensuring continuous food service through vending machines and providing clear nutritional labelling will also be part of your evolving role.

However, maintaining consistent quality while meeting diverse dietary needs and managing rising ingredient costs amid labour shortages is challenging. The unpredictable nature of consumer demand, driven by hybrid work patterns, will make stock forecasting difficult, increasing the risk of food waste and shortages. Additionally, you’ll be competing with Full-Service Restaurants (FSR), which are offering similar healthy and convenient food options, requiring you to innovate and adapt to stay competitive.

To navigate these challenges, careful menu planning and reducing food waste will be essential for staying on budget. Cheese and fruit will help you optimize both cost and flavour while offering a balanced nutritional profile. Cheese, rich in calcium and protein, and fruit, high in vitamins, fibre, and antioxidants, are very appealing to health-conscious consumers. Whether you’re preparing hot meals like pasta, pizza, or cold options like sandwiches and salads, these ingredients can be used throughout the day. Plant-based cheese will allow you to cater to the growing demand for vegan dishes. Meanwhile, fruit elevates desserts by replacing sugar and offering a nutritious on-the-go snack.

Fuel your day: creative solutions for today’s hybrid workforce

As the B&I landscape changes, chefs must offer nutritious, customizable, and convenient meals that cater to health-conscious, hybrid workers.

To elevate your dishes, Boursin® Professional brings a unique taste enriching multiple culinary applications, whether you are preparing smooth sauces, gourmet toppings, enriching soups, or enhancing sandwiches and wraps. Its easy-to-use format saves you time while delivering a gourmet taste and creamy texture, perfect for premium lunch options and quick grab-and-go snacks.

For versatility in hot and cold dishes, The Laughing Cow® Professional is an ideal choice. Its smooth, meltable quality works wonderfully in soups, mashed potatoes, and vegetable sides, appealing to a broad range of palates.

When it comes to indulgent desserts or creamy spreads, Kiri® Professional shines. Known for its smooth texture and rich flavour, Kiri® adds a special touch to cheesecakes, tiramisu, and even savoury applications like sandwiches and wraps.

In the plant-based arena, Nurishh® offers a delicious, allergen-free cheese alternative with excellent melting qualities, perfect for eco-conscious consumers.

Are you familiar with the latest snack options? Babybel® has recently introduced its 2-count pack called Babybel® 2GO, designed specifically for on-the-go snacking. It’s ideal for canteens and vending machines, offering a nutritious option that’s both satisfying and convenient.

Finally, GoGo squeeZ® provides a convenient, fruit-based option. With no added sugar, it’s ideal for on-the-go snack or as a healthier dessert.

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