A Forecast for the next decade:

[danraio]

Here are some of our insights and opinions we are forecasting for the next decade (repeated from last week):

A Forecast for the next decade:

1) Ice cream and yogurt locations will get more into the beverage business. Hot beverages like coffee will be a driving force for sales especially helping in the lull periods like winter. This will spur brand new or improved equipment and supply sales as well as adding some operational complexities. If handled correctly, the winners will absorb some untapped market share.

2) Upscale restaurants will convert less from star chefs and more towards FOH service stars. High end operators, managers and servers who know how to perform and train consistent high touch service will be in demand more than ever. Considering today's landscape, operators will need to bid for the few FOH masters that exist as service will outshine flavor and preparation standards. We believe customers are going to choose service as the most important element as they decide upon a high end dining experience.

3) Data analysis will continue to be the best method to wring out the excesses and magnify the winning aspects of restaurant menus. Menu and sales analysis will be less graphically oriented and more sales and profit oriented based on what sells per their POS systems. This analysis will lend itself to new decision making regarding menu writing, specials offered and new menu item creation.

4) The number of new foodservice outlets will remain steady. We see no reason to believe there will be any disruption in the number of new operators who risk new foodservice ventures. We do believe the operators of tomorrow will be lean and mean in cost, offerings and execution methods all adding up to a quick reception for the customer. Snacks as meals will continue on the current upward trend creating more kiosks or kiosk types of operations in all sorts of venues.