Convenience stores compete for attention from diners

Amid the challenges faced by the foodservice industry over the last few years, competition from convenience stores seeking to capture the fast-food customer is on the rise. Whether it’s due to declining cigarette sales or simply recognizing the opportunity for growth, convenience stores are becoming a fast-food destination for many consumers. Convenience store foodservice grew […]

Making the mindset shift to optimize your profits

By Doug Radkey Sales don’t pay your bills; profits do. In an industry that is obsessed with topline revenue and social media impressions, we often forget the number that really matters: your bottom-line profits. It’s easy to boast about a small independent restaurant generating $1.5M in revenue, for example, especially when average guest spend is at […]

Key trends driving the future of hospitality in Canada

By Laura Henry With nearly three-quarters of Canadians planning to travel more domestically and spend more time at local bars and restaurants within Canada this summer, there are several hospitality trends to note that can help businesses make the most of the season. Seamless integration of online and in-store experiences According to the 2025 Future […]

Serving elevated customer experiences to drive loyalty

In the past, customer experience simply meant great food and service, but with today’s economic challenges and the demand for higher value, the bar has been raised. Customer experience (CX) is the great differentiator, allowing operators to set themselves apart and grow their brand, building loyalty and increasing repeat visits. The recent Patronix 2025 Loyalty […]

Convenience is the key for off-premise diners

Today’s consumers are busy, and they are looking for more convenience from their favourite restaurants, as the foodservice landscape continues to evolve. Digital convenience continues to be a priority for diners as their lives remain busy and time stays scarce. Studies show that 54 per cent of Canadian consumers prefer ordering food delivery through third-party […]

What can restaurants expect this holiday season?

The holiday season is just about here and taking a look at upcoming trends can help restaurants stay ahead of the curve, attract attention, and raise their revenues. As many operators have seen a fall slowdown, studies show that they typically see a boost between November 1 and December 25. Reports showed that in 2023, […]

The fall/winter edition of CRFN Magazine is now available!

As the cold weather arrives and the end of the year approaches, it’s time to take a look at the successes and challenges that today’s foodservice professionals are experiencing. Our fall/winter 2024 issue of CRFN Magazine features timely issues such as keeping restaurants clean and sanitized this season, mastering social media marketing, and more! What’s […]

Today’s foodservice industry: knowing the numbers

Restaurant operators are busy, and sometimes analyzing data can seem time-consuming and overwhelming. Along with the insights they look at for their operations, restaurateurs should keep an eye on what’s happening in the industry, as well as what guests are looking for, what attracts customers, top trends, and more. Here are some valuable stats and […]

Convenience stores increase their value menu offerings to compete with restaurants

Competition in the foodservice industry continues to grow as grocery and convenience stores add value meals to try and expand their customer base. With 75 per cent of consumers skipping meals in favour of snacks, there is an opportunity for convenience stores to grow their market share by targeting these customers. According to Food Business […]

Ghost kitchens: where are they now?

Ghost kitchens certainly had their moment during lockdown, gaining popularity and continuing to grow even as restaurants and patios reopened after the pandemic. Offering an appealing model for some operators, a ghost kitchen often meant lower overhead, fewer staff, and a more flexible schedule. For customers, it offered the opportunity to enjoy delicious takeout food […]