Miscellaneous

🌎 In 2026, potential conflicts in oil-rich regions, reminiscent of post-9/11 and pandemic travel climates, threaten sudden wars with minimal warning. This affects travel plans, favoring regional and train travel over the predicted 2026 road trips. Travel costs, driven by oil-price inflation, impact the sector, affecting mid-market and luxury hospitality. As summer bookings peak, the travel industry must adapt to transportation challenges and guest support. The uncertain environment emphasizes wellness and escapism as 2026's prevailing themes.

📈 Kathleen Hollis started at Wells Fargo in Hospitality Finance before joining Evolution Hospitality in 2014, where she helped expand its managed hotels from 27 to 90. She advanced to senior VP by age 30 and became the chief growth officer at First Hospitality last year. Evolution Hospitality’s portfolio grew significantly under her leadership. In 2025, the lodging industry improved in getting women into leadership roles, aided by programs like AHLA FORWARD.

💡 Energy drink sales in U.S. convenience stores surged by 7.9% over a 52-week period ending September 7, 2023, totaling $15.5 billion, according to Circana. Non-aseptic drinks increased by 8.5%, while energy drink mixes skyrocketed by 99%. Post-COVID, about 60% of consumers regularly read food labels, seeking healthier options like zero-sugar drinks. Younger demographics are driving innovation, with Gen Z and millennials frequently trying new beverages, contributing to a broadening consumer base.

🍎 In September 2025, NielsenIQ reported that 48% of consumers were cooking more at home due to inflation, a 2% increase since January. Fresh produce spending is set to rise with 33% planning increased outlays. Fresh fruits dominate with 87% of category sales, and vegetables at 83%. Fresh green bean sales grew 3.4%, despite being pricier. Price shifts: fresh fruit down 0.7%, vegetables up 1.3%. Unique produce sales soared: figs up 12%, kiwis 36%, and Cosmic Crisp apples 53%.

🧂 According to a Revenue Management Solutions survey, 62% of consumers frequently look for high-protein options, and 48% choose meals based on protein content. Willingness to switch brands for protein options stands at nearly 50%. Fiber interest is growing with 45% seeking high-fiber meals, driven by digestive health concerns. Millennials and high-income households lead these trends, with 70% of millennials seeking protein and 53% seeking fiber. Restaurants are urged to adapt menus to capture this evolving market.

🍯 In South Korea, The Venti launched a Strawberry Cream Latte featuring choux cream milk and strawberry sauce. In China, Lelecha introduced Gold & Silver Corn Drinks with tea, cheese, mango, and corn kernels. In Indonesia, Esteh debuted the Silky Cream Taro with cheese cream and egg pudding. In Germany, Burger King unveiled Summernades, fruity drinks topped with cotton candy. Instagrammable beverages are gaining popularity globally.

🎬 In Vietnam, World War II propaganda art (1939-1945) emphasized unity and perseverance, evolving into a cultural symbol. Propaganda Bistro, founded in 2013 by Noelle Carr-Ellison in Ho Chi Minh City, blends dining with storytelling, honoring Vietnamese joy. Inspired by Trịnh Công Sơn, "Every day I pick a joy" is adapted to "Every day I choose a new dish." This unique concept bridges tradition and modernity, attracting both locals and tourists.

🍎 Nutrient-dense eating focuses on foods rich in essential nutrients—vitamins, minerals, fibre, protein—relative to calorie content. It's shifting mainstream grocers and global food brands in response to busy lifestyles, GLP-1 weight-loss medication use, and health-focused consumers. These foods, including high-protein pizzas and fibre-rich breads, aim to optimize health by supporting gut function and reducing disease risk. Nutrient density now guides food formulation, shelf placement, and innovation, reshaping eating habits and product offerings worldwide.