Circular Economy in Foodservice - Thematic Intelligence

Circular Economy in Foodservice - Thematic Intelligence

Summary

This report provides an overview of how foodservice companies are adapting to achieve a circular economy. It looks at how particular technologies have been implemented, and how popular their uptake has been. Furthermore, it assesses the environmental and economic consequences of a circular economy compared to a linear one, and how it will influence consumer behavior and foodservice innovation in the years ahead.

The 'circular economy' is the economic and sustainability principle of maintaining a system in which nothing is wasted or discarded. This opposes the current system that many countries and businesses operate by, known as the 'linear economy', in which resources are extracted, manufactured, and then discarded after use.

Scope

• The importance of the circular economy is being fueled by consumer awareness of resource scarcity and a desire to protect the environment.
• The COVID-19 pandemic helped accelerate the transition to a technology focused economy driven by online sales, remote engagement, and artificial intelligence (AI).
• For foodservice, the key areas of focus will be the reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, the recovery and prevention of food waste, the phasing out of single-use packaging, and the implementation of closed-loop packaging.
• With supply chain shortages and inflation continuing to disrupt the industry since the pandemic, it is more important than ever that foodservice operators start transitioning to a circular economy.

• Gain insight into the latest sub-trends around the circular economy.
• Identify how foodservice companies are implenting circular economy principles in their business strategies.
• Discover how new consumer behaviors will influence the circular economy in the years ahead.