Insights / Uncategorized

52 Ways to Unlock Foodservice Value with Buyers Edge Platform

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 

Takeaways from the 2025 National Restaurant Association Show

Key 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: 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

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

Meat poultry

Commodities Report 41

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

Fresh fish and seafood platter

Commodities Report 40

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

Charcuterie board with meats and cheese

Commodities Report 39

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,

Vegetables

Commodities Report

Alerts & What’s Trending   Produce Avocado prices climbed 14.5% w/w, hitting a 20-week high with more increases expected through February. Meanwhile, roma tomatoes continued their seasonal price drop, falling another 16.4% last week.   Grain Wheat prices inched up 1.5% w/w following USDA balance sheet updates. The ongoing Black Sea weather risks could tighten global wheat supplies, possibly benefiting U.S. producers.   Dairy Dairy prices softened as butter and cheese production remained steady with ample supply. CME spot butter fell $0.06 w/w to $2.54/lb, while retail cheese advertisements dropped for the third consecutive week.   Beef Beef prices continue climbing, with ground beef up 32% over the past month and choice cuts seeing steady increases. The rib and round segments saw mixed movements, but consumer demand for ground products keeps pushing prices higher.   Pork Ham prices rose 2% w/w as Easter preparations began, while ribs and loins saw

Meat poultry

Commodities Report

Alerts & What’s Trending   Produce Avocado prices increased 10% w/w, defying expectations of early-year weakness, while large roma tomatoes dropped 14%. Yellow onions remain steady, with potential growth on the horizon. Avocado pricing may not ease significantly until April or later.   Grain Grain markets had a strong start to 2025, with soybean oil leading the charge, climbing 11% w/w on optimism surrounding biofuel tax credit guidance. Wheat also saw gains, breaking its December stagnation, signaling a potentially positive trend for the sector.   Dairy Butter prices rose slightly to $2.60/lb as cream volumes remain abundant, favoring processors. Cheese prices were mixed, with blocks falling slightly and barrels increasing. Production schedules were lighter during the holidays but are expected to strengthen in the new year.   Beef The February cattle contract increased by 2% to $198.35/cwt, with choice and select cutouts also climbing. However, rib prices fell significantly, while

simplify foodservice operations with buyers edge platform brands and technology solutions

Simplify Foodservice Operations with Buyers Edge Platform Brands

Every plate served tells a story—but behind the scenes, the true challenge lies in managing the complex web of operations, costs, and suppliers that keep your foodservice business running smoothly. Success today isn’t just about great food; it’s about leveraging the right tools, insights, and partnerships to stay ahead in a competitive industry. That’s where Buyers Edge Platform steps in.   With decades of expertise, cutting-edge technology, and a collaborative network of specialized brands, we help operators like you simplify foodservice operations, cut costs, and gain visibility into your business.   Expertise Backed by Collaboration  What sets Buyers Edge Platform apart is our unique ecosystem of brands, each offering specialized solutions to address the most pressing challenges in the foodservice industry. Our expertise spans the entire foodservice landscape, from procurement and supply chain management to fresh produce and software solutions.  The Buyers Edge Platform network of brands includes:    Digital Procurement