More trend resources and insights into the year ahead:

Industry Experts Forecast 2012 Foodservice Trends (NRN)

Seven Leading U.S. Restaurant Trends for 2012 (Technomic) …more

The Futures Company describes a group (23% of the population), which has no serious financial concerns and is optimistic about the future – in contrast to another group (17%), …more

“Affluent” Americans are defined by various financial criteria; regardless, the affluent are critical spenders. The top 5% net worth individuals now account for 37% of all consumer expenditures (up from 25% pre-recession), more than the entire bottom 80%. The affluent, too, suffered setbacks …more

TREND: While consumers generally embrace the innovation and change around them, it’s a lot to keep up with. About as many relate to …more

In the wake of the economic meltdown, lack of trust may be shaping consumers’ buying decisions as much as lack of resources. Today’s Consumers feel betrayed by the very people and institutions they trusted – who at best appear …more

Andrew Freeman, president
Andrew@afandco.com
www.afandco.com