The historic Jewelers Building provided the perfect setting for an evening of thought-provoking discussions on key trends and expectations for 2025. Graciously hosted by Clayco, the event brought together industry leaders for an engaging panel discussion, fostering insightful exchanges and fresh perspectives.  

Building on the themes our members referenced we set at the beginning of the year, our expert panelists not only reaffirmed these emerging trends, but also enriched the conversation with their valuable experiences. 

Exploring the Future: The 2025 ADM Global Trends Framework 

The discussion launched with the 2025 ADM Global Trends Framework, serving as an excellent conversation starter. Liz Mohr, ADM's Global Market & Consumer Insights Director, led the audience through the company’s perspective on evolving consumer expectations, for the year ahead and beyond. 

The New Value Equation: Changing Consumer Priorities 

A key theme that resonated throughout the discussion was the concept of New Value Equation. Liz Mohr and David Henkes, Senior Principal and Head of Strategic Partnerships at Technomic, examined the impact of rising consumer prices on purchasing behavior. Consumers seem to pick and choose and decide what is worth their money. 

David Henkes highlighted research that shows consumers are not simply opting for cheaper restaurants. In fact, some fast-food chains struggle, while some who can serve that something extra that customers are looking for, are doing great. Chili’s is an example of a thriving business. 

For Farmers Fridge, a company with over 1,700 fresh food dispensers, costs and value are inseparable. Sarah Rigsbee, Farmers Fridge’s CFO, explained the company’s vision: if consumers are asked to pay more, they’ll also have additional benefits, such as the company’s high-protein bowl. 

Navigating Supply Chain Challenges 

The conversation also touched on the supply chain resilience amid rising costs. Scott Rahn, Sr. VP, Market Leader Consumer Products & Supply Chain at Clayco acknowledged that the impact of recently announced tariffs is already being felt in ongoing projects. Clayco is responding by leveraging diversification strategies to mitigate risks. 

From a legal perspective, Delacy Peters Jr., Attorney, predicted an increase in litigation surrounding supply chain disruptions, raising questions of accountability and financial responsibility. 

The Evolution of Healthy Eating 

The definition of healthy eating continues to evolve, and consumers interpret it in vastly different ways. Liz Mohr emphasized that for some, health is synonymous with natural foods, while others choose a more technical aspect, incorporating supplements into their diets. Farmers Fridge aims to be at the forefront of the healthy eating trend, seamlessly combining nutrition with convenience. Their approach ensures that a fresh, nutritious meal – like a ready-to-go-salad- fits effortlessly with consumers’ fast-paced lifestyles. 

Asked about how to navigate the ultra-processed food (UPF) discussion as consumer demands for high protein and high fiber emerge, Liz Mohr recognizes the dichotomy consumers face: the wish to eat natural, and simultaneously including nutritious components in food, that can only be done through processing. The increase of the use of GLP-1 medication brings along another element of revisiting food nutrition.  

Sustainability and Climate Action 

Despite potential shifts in federal sustainability policies, Scott Rahn pointed out that S&P500 food and beverage companies remain committed to their decarbonization programs. The world is changing, and businesses need to change along with that. 

For restaurants, sustainability efforts are closely linked to cost reduction. David Henkes noted that energy, water and process efficiencies are the primary drivers behind sustainability initiatives. Some companies, like Sweetgreen and Chipotle have successfully built their brand around sustainability. Nonetheless, for most restaurants, the efforts of cost reduction are here to stay, according to Henkes. 

2025 is Officially Underway!

With this dynamic event, CFBN has officially kicked off 2025, ready for many more exciting panel discussions, networking and exchanging experiences. 

We will continue to explore these trends in-depth throughout the year – stay tuned for more articles diving into the evolving food and beverage landscape.