In this Edition
Jan/Feb 2012
INDUSTRY UPDATE
Trends to Watch in 2012

J. Walker Smith, executive chairman, The Futures Co., describes what he calls the “Kinship Economy,” a post-recession marketplace dominated by “process” (how people are treated) over “product” (what they purchase). “Consumers are resilient and buying and shopping are as important to them as ever,” he says. But, he adds, they are coping with a smaller …more
SMART MARKETING
The Reach of Online Reviews

Restaurateurs have come to understand the importance of online reviews since the emergence of Yelp, Citysearch, Zagat, TripAdvisor, Urbanspoon, Gayot, etc. But the reach of …more
POURING PROFITS
What’s Brewing for 2012

According to the Brewers Association, the U.S. is the world’s largest beer market and offers the greatest diversity – over 140 styles of beer and 13,000 beer brands. Stephen Hindy, president and cofounder, Brooklyn Brewery, …more
MAKE PARTNERSHIP REWARDING SM
2012 American Express® Restaurant Trade Program

Register now for the 23rd American Express® Restaurant Trade Program at the Food & Wine Classic in Aspen, June 15-17, 2012. Join José Andrés (Think Food Group), Rick Bayless …more