What’s new and exciting in your category?
The best part of foodservice is, it is always changing. There are always [limited-time offers] and seasonal offerings. Foodservice has to be nimble, willing to change and adapt in an instant. We must always be on the lookout for the next exciting new flavor while never forgetting the basics in which we have built our program.
What do you love about your category?
That there is absolutely no room for any boredom in foodservice. The details that need to be attended to can sometimes be overwhelming, but it’s so rewarding because we all see food as a necessity, as it will continue to be. Food has been and always will be the one thing that binds us all together, a soundtrack of life. What better way to spend one’s life than making sure that those around you are well fed? I love knowing I play such a huge part in helping our guests find great quality food at a reasonable price. I cannot think of a better career or calling.
What trends are you watching?
Spicy is hot right now, figuratively and literally! However, my consistent focus remains finding the best way to give our guests the best-tasting, quality food for the best value. Remaining focused on making our guests’ lives easier and more affordable is very important in this industry and to me personally.
What products performed well in the past year?
I could talk about all the great LTOs that we produced, but honestly, I keep learning that our staples—pizza, premium dogs, wings etc.—will never disappoint.
What are your goals/most looking forward to in 2025?
It feels like we’ve moved so swiftly into 2025! I plan to continue to remain focused on the basics, selling food profitably, providing our guests with the best meal deals possible and driving results through great training and associate development. Never lose focus on the staples that our customers know and love.
What are the biggest challenges?
I think it’s safe to say that we all feel that the economy is a huge question mark with inflation especially. Inside of that question mark are opportunities. Opportunities like ensuring that we are consistently providing great food at a great value.