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52 Ways to Unlock Foodservice Value with Buyers Edge Platform

Rising costs, labor issues, and changing expectations are putting more pressure on operators to do more with less. That’s why uncovering true foodservice value isn’t just helpful—it’s essential to staying competitive and profitable. For example, 95% of restaurants said food costs were a significant issue, 96% cited labor costs, and 79% struggled to attract new customers. The numbers are clear: operators are searching for smarter, more sustainable ways to run their business. That’s where Buyers Edge Platform comes in. Buyers Edge Platform helps operators unlock foodservice value across purchasing, supply chain, accounting, and analytics through a digital procurement network. Whether you’re battling rising prices or juggling multiple locations, our solutions help you reduce costs, improve efficiency, and fuel growth. With Buyers Edge Platform, you gain access to a comprehensive suite of tools and services designed to simplify your operations and maximize profitability. Specifically, these include: Digital Procurement Network Fresh Solutions

What Is the Real ROI of Tip Management Software and How Does It Save Time, Reduce Risk, and Boost Team Satisfaction?

If your managers are still spending hours a week buried in spreadsheets, double-checking calculations, or troubleshooting tip disputes, it’s time to rethink your approach to tip management. Manual tip processes are not only time-consuming and error-prone, they also carry significant compliance risks and often lead to inconsistent payouts that frustrate staff. In a labor market where retention and efficiency matter more than ever, automating your tip distribution isn’t just a nice-to-have, it’s a strategic business decision. And while many restaurants view automation as a future goal, the reality is this: the ROI of tip management software is already here, and it’s measurable. Let’s dive into how the right tool such as fully automated tip management software created by our partners at TipHaus, can save time, reduce risk, and build a more motivated team, and why restaurants of all sizes are seeing big returns by making the switch. Say Goodbye to

Hard Truths from the Booth: 11 Real Challenges Operators Shared at NRA

Hard Truths from the Booth: 11 Challenges Operators Shared at the 2025 National Restaurant Association Show

If you walked the floor of the 2025 National Restaurant Association Show, you likely heard a lot of buzz about innovation, flavor trends, and new tech. But behind the booths and brand activations, the real story came straight from operators—sharing the hard truths of what’s weighing them down in today’s foodservice industry. At Buyers Edge Platform, we had honest conversations with restaurant leaders and operators from every segment—and they weren’t shy about what’s keeping them up at night. These candid discussions gave us a direct line to the everyday obstacles operators are up against. It wasn’t about theory or speculation; it was about the operational stressors they face right now, and the real consequences of not having the right support in place. Here’s what we heard: Difficulty attracting and retaining staff: The labor crisis isn’t over. Operators continue to struggle to hire and keep reliable workers, which puts pressure on

A Foodservice Expert’s Takeaways from the 2025 National Restaurant Association Show

If you’ve ever been to the National Restaurant Association Show (NRA), you know it can be a bit of sensory overload. This year was no exception—and as I walked the floor, one thing became clear: innovation is everywhere, but so is the pressure to make the right choice for your operation. From tech to sustainability to booth theatrics that rival Broadway sets, here are some of the top trends that caught my attention—and what they mean for foodservice operators looking to level up. Booth Bragging Rights: From Sauce Taphouses to Shoe Stores Some booths didn’t just show off products—they created full-blown brand worlds. Kraft Heinz built a multi-window restaurant experience where attendees could walk up and order dishes featuring different sauces, all served from their “sauce taphouse.” It was an immersive (and delicious) way to showcase how their products shine across menu applications. Hormel brought the same energy with a

On the Menu: Top 5 Growing Ingredients Operators Should Know About

On the Menu: From the back-of-house to the customer’s plate, growing ingredients can tell us a lot about what’s driving operational decisions and consumer preferences. Whether it’s to reduce prep time, meet flavor expectations, or streamline ordering, smart operators keep a pulse on what’s gaining traction. Based on recent data pulled from Buyers Edge Platform, here are the five growing ingredients that saw the most growth within our member operators at the end of 2024—along with tips on how you can make them work harder in your kitchen. 1. Westminster Oyster Crackers 📈 +16% in Concepts | +7% in Locations These classic crackers are making a comeback—likely thanks to seasonal menus featuring soups, chowders, and bisques. They’re cost-effective, easy to portion, and add to that nostalgic crunch guests crave. This item is a perfect example of growing ingredients being driven by seasonal demand and comfort food trends. How to Use

How Buyers Edge Platform Can Help Your Restaurant Stay Profitable

With 39% of restaurant operators reporting unprofitability in 2024, it’s clear that food costs, supply chain challenges, and operational inefficiencies are taking a toll. To stay ahead, restaurants need strategic solutions that cut costs, streamline purchasing, and optimize spend management. And with 48% of operators expecting competition to be more this year, standing out through operational efficiency and strategic cost management is more important than ever. That’s where Buyers Edge Platform comes in. Through our four key divisions—Digital Procurement Network, Fresh Solutions, Supply Chain Management, and SaaS Software—we empower restaurants to reduce costs, enhance supply chain resilience, and improve margins on the items they already buy. Here’s how our solutions help maintain your restaurant profitability and navigate today’s industry challenges: Instantly Reduce Costs and Earn Cashback with Our Digital Procurement Network Save big on over 175,000+ food and supply items through strategic supplier partnerships. Cashback rebate programs turn everyday purchases into

Commodities Report

Alerts & What’s Trending Produce Iceberg lettuce prices jumped 8.4% w/w due to cold weather impacts, with potential supply gaps ahead. Avocado prices fell 6.8% as border supply improved, though a return to normal price levels isn’t expected until late February. Roma tomato declines slowed, with prices likely stabilizing soon. Grain Wheat markets gained momentum as drought and freezing temperatures raised concerns over U.S. and Russian winter wheat crops. While immediate impacts are uncertain, February will be a key period for monitoring international demand. Dairy The dairy market declined despite increased retail promotions, with CME blocks down $0.01 to $1.86/lb and barrels falling $0.07 to $1.80/lb. Butter prices dropped 2% w/w to $2.40/lb, while cheese demand remained steady across retail and foodservice. Beef Beef prices softened as February demand slowed, with the choice cutout down 1% to $323.98/cwt. While tenderloins may ease post-Valentine’s Day, shortloins surged

cracking the egg crisis? buyers edge platform brands can help

Scrambling for Egg Solutions? 6 Ways Buyers Edge Platform Can Help

Are skyrocketing egg prices putting pressure on your food costs? The foodservice industry is no stranger to supply chain challenges, but the current egg crisis is sending shockwaves through restaurant operations, retail, and manufacturing alike. With egg prices projected to increase by another 20% in 2025—currently trading over $7 per dozen for conventional white eggs and nearly $9 per dozen for cage-free eggs—operators must take strategic steps to mitigate financial strain. At Buyers Edge Platform, we equip foodservice businesses with the tools, data, and partnerships needed to navigate these market disruptions efficiently. Understanding Egg Prices: Market Insights & Cost Drivers Egg prices continue to soar, largely due to the ongoing outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), which has significantly reduced the U.S. egg-laying hen population—over 30 million birds have been lost in just 30 days, marking the highest number of cases ever for the virus. The rapid spread of

Commodities Report

Alerts & What’s Trending Produce Roma tomatoes dropped another 28% w/w, hitting their lowest price since May 2023, but prices should stabilize soon. Avocados saw a slight price dip after a month of increases, though significant relief isn’t expected until late February. Grain Corn prices fluctuated due to concerns over potential 25% tariffs on Mexican imports, which could impact 35% of U.S. corn exports. Meanwhile, Brazil’s slow corn planting start provides some market support. Dairy Cheese prices climbed, with CME blocks up $0.10 to $1.82/lb and barrels up $0.05 to $1.87/lb, while butter prices fell 3% w/w to $2.45/lb. Retail promotions softened, but demand for milk and cheese remains steady. Beef Beef markets remained volatile, with the choice cutout at $327.92/cwt and select at $315.90/cwt. Rib prices have dropped 40% this month but should rebound ahead of spring grilling season, while choice tenderloins climbed 1% to

Commodities Report

Alerts & What’s Trending Produce Avocado prices climbed another 10% w/w, driven by high demand ahead of the Super Bowl, though increased volumes may stabilize the market after February. Roma tomatoes continued their seasonal price drop but are expected to level out within the next two weeks. Grain Soybean meal prices surged 5% last week, fueled by dry weather in Argentina’s key growing regions. While some rain is forecasted, the ongoing drought is keeping the global market on edge. U.S. soybean meal exports are already at record highs for the 2024/25 marketing year. Dairy Dairy markets softened last week, with cheese and butter prices declining slightly. CME blocks and barrels fell $0.07 to $1.82/lb, while butter demand remained mixed amid ample cream supplies. Retail promotions increased, but retail prices stayed lower than last year, creating a favorable market for operators. Beef Beef markets saw mixed movements,

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