Want a Treat? Visit Jollibee!

 

If your taste buds are yearning for a flavorful adventure, it’s time to visit Jollibee—the global restaurant phenomenon recently crowned “the best fast-food fried chicken” in America by USA TODAY. With an irresistible lineup of food and beverages, according to Steven Johnson Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions®.  Jollibee continues to delight diners with flavors that are both comfortingly familiar and uniquely exciting. Whether you’re dining in or grabbing a quick takeout, Jollibee promises a joyful culinary experience that’s hard to beat.

Signature Sips to Stimulate Your Senses

The newly introduced Signature Sips have taken Jollibee’s beverage game to the next level. These premium, made-to-order drinks are crafted to refresh and indulge, offering the perfect pairing for Jollibee’s legendary Chickenjoy fried chicken, crispy chicken sandwiches, or the iconic Peach Mango Pie. With options like Tropical Quenchers, Refreshing Freezes, Premium Teas, and Creamy Coffee blends, there’s a drink to suit every craving.

Tropical Quenchers

For those who prefer a fruity escape, Jollibee’s Tropical Quenchers are a burst of vibrant flavors starting at just $4.99:

·         Tropical Breeze Quencher: A tantalizing blend of strawberry, passionfruit, and coconut, topped with Mango Jelly for a fruity twist.

·         Dragonfruit Sunset Quencher: A colorful mix of mango and passionfruit crowned with real dragonfruit pieces, capturing the essence of a tropical sunset.

Refreshing Freezes

Rediscover the joy of frozen delights with these luscious creations, also starting at $4.99:

·         Coconut Dream Freeze: Creamy and luxurious, it’s a sip-worthy island escape.

·         Strawberry Bliss Freeze: A classic strawberry sensation blended to icy perfection.

·         Coffee Freeze: Cold brew coffee meets velvety smoothness, creating a caffeine kick that’s pure indulgence.

Premium Teas and Cold Brew Coffee

For a refreshing boost anytime, Jollibee’s Premium Teas and Cold Brew Coffee are ideal choices, priced at just $3.99:

·         Passionfruit Iced Tea: A harmonious blend of rich black tea and tropical passionfruit.

·         Lychee Iced Tea: Delicate floral notes of lychee elevate this freshly brewed black tea.

·         Sweet Cream Cold Brew: A velvety delight featuring smooth cold brew topped with sweet cream.

Customize Your Beverage

Enhance your drink with Mango Jelly or Brown Sugar Boba toppings for just $1, adding an extra layer of fun and flavor.

Jollibee: Where Every Bite and Sip Brings Joy

“We’re thrilled to bring these new refreshing drinks to our customers and offer them an elevated and delightful beverage experience that complements our menu perfectly,” said Luis Velasco, Senior Vice President and Marketing Head at Jollibee Foods Corporation, North America. “Whether it’s a midday pick-me-up or a treat to enjoy with your meal, we want every sip to bring a little extra joy to your day.”

Jollibee’s commitment to spreading happiness one bite and sip at a time is unwavering. From its juicy Chickenjoy fried chicken to the new Signature Sips lineup, the brand continues to capture hearts and taste buds across the globe.

Experience Jollibee Today

Whether you’re craving a savory feast, a sweet treat, or a refreshing drink, Jollibee has something special waiting for you. Available for dine-in or takeout, it’s time to savor the flavors that have made Jollibee a beloved name worldwide. Don’t forget to follow @jollibeeus on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for updates on new menu items and store openings.

Success does leave clues. One clue that time and time again continues to resurface is “the consumer is dynamic not static”.  Regular readers of this blog know that is the common refrain of Steven Johnson, Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions®.  Our Grocerant Guru® can help your company edify your brand with relevance.  Call 253-759-7869 for more information. 

The 65-Inch HDTV Syndrome Evolves: Expanding Foodservice Disruption

 

Foodservice Solutions® recent Grocerant ScoreCards reveal a profound shift in consumer behavior at the crossroads of technology, retail food sales, and consumer preferences. This intersection continues to drive the growth of the grocerant niche, reshaping food distribution channels and dining habits, according to Steven Johnson, Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA-based Foodservice Solutions®.

The latest ScoreCard findings highlight a key trend: 83.2% of meals served at home now include at least one Ready-2-Eat or Heat-N-Eat fresh food component. Johnson calls this an extension of "The 65-Inch HDTV Syndrome," a concept he identified in 2012.

What Is the 65-Inch HDTV Syndrome?

In simple terms, it’s the impact of larger, high-definition TVs and immersive entertainment options on consumer behavior. The proliferation of binge-watching and on-demand streaming services has drastically changed how and where people consume meals. According to Nielsen, the average U.S. household has 2.3 TVs, with 75% of homes owning at least one TV 55 inches or larger. Moreover, binge-watching has become a dominant behavior, with 60% of adults regularly engaging in marathon viewing sessions.

This shift means more people are prioritizing convenience over the time and effort required to cook from scratch or dine out. Instead of leaving the comfort of their homes, consumers are increasingly turning to grocerants and convenience stores for high-quality, ready-made meal solutions.

The Grocerant Niche and Its Impact

The grocerant niche has emerged as a powerful disruptor by blurring the lines between restaurants, grocery stores, convenience stores, and even drugstores. These outlets cater to time-starved consumers with fresh, portable, and convenient meal options that are perceived as “better for you.”

Key consumer drivers include:

1.       Convenient Meal Participation: Enabling easy customization for individuals or families.

2.       Differentiation: Offering variety and novelty that appeal to diverse tastes.

3.       Individualization/Customization: Allowing families to select meal components tailored to specific preferences.

The result? Grocerants are reshaping the competitive landscape of retail food sales, particularly at the intersection of the FIVE P’s of Food Marketing: Product, Packaging, Placement, Portability, and Price.

Disruption of Frozen Foods

The 65-Inch HDTV Syndrome has also affected frozen foods. According to a study by Packaged Facts, the $44 billion U.S. retail market for frozen foods has seen stagnant sales, with growth largely driven by inflation rather than consumer demand. 57% of consumers cite a preference for fresh foods as the top reason they avoid frozen options, while others prefer home-cooked meals or healthier alternatives.

Ready-2-Eat and Heat-N-Eat fresh foods, available in non-traditional outlets, present a growing threat to both frozen food sales and traditional restaurants.

Implications for Restaurants

Restaurateurs must take heed: the grocerant niche is fundamentally altering the price, value, and service equilibrium in foodservice. To stay competitive, restaurants must address the evolving demands of convenience-driven consumers.

Actionable Insights for Restaurateurs:

1.       Enhance Packaging: Invest in packaging that maintains freshness and supports portability for home dining.

2.       Leverage Technology: Offer seamless online ordering and delivery options to capture binge-watchers who prefer to stay home.

3.       Expand Menu Customization: Introduce mix-and-match meal components to mimic the flexibility consumers find in grocerants.

Addressing the 65-Inch HDTV Syndrome

The 65-Inch HDTV Syndrome is not just a trend—it’s a fundamental shift in how Americans interact with food. By understanding and adapting to this change, grocerants, convenience stores, and innovative restaurants can thrive in a rapidly evolving marketplace.

Want to learn more about how to navigate these disruptive forces? The Grocerant Guru® is here to guide your journey to incremental success.

For international corporate presentations, regional chain presentations, educational forums, or keynotes contact: Steven Johnson Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions.  His extensive experience as a multi-unit restaurant operator, consultant, brand / product positioning expert, and public speaking will leave success clues for all. For more information visit GrocerantGuru.com, FoodserviceSolutions.US or call 1-253-759-7869

Weekend Sport Viewing: The Ultimate Game Day Food Guide

 

As sports seasons overlap—football kicking into high gear, basketball getting underway, and hockey energizing its fans—weekend sports viewing turns into a marathon of excitement. Steven Johnson the Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions®, knows that to make the most of this viewing experience, fans want a range of options that blend favorite flavors and convenience with game-day energy. Here’s a breakdown of the winning foods, snacks, and flavors, plus tips on mix-and-match strategies to score big with fans on game day or for a full sports-viewing weekend.

Winning Game Day Foods and Snacks

1. Sliders: The MVP of Flexibility and Flavor

·         What fans love: Sliders are universally beloved for their customizable nature, portability, and variety. Whether it’s classic beef with cheddar, BBQ pulled pork, or crispy chicken with a kick of spicy mayo, sliders appeal to fans across sports.

·         Marketing insight: Sliders cater to the “mini-meal” trend, giving consumers the ability to try multiple flavors and easily share with friends. Their small size also taps into the “snackification” movement, which has seen a 20% rise in consumer preference for bite-sized indulgences in the last few years.

2. Chicken Wings: A Flavor Playground

·         What fans love: Whether buffalo-style, sweet-and-spicy, or Korean BBQ, wings are a game-day staple that allows fans to mix flavors and adjust heat levels.

·         Marketing insight: The demand for bold flavors is clear, with over 60% of sports fans preferring sauces with a spicy twist. Offering a variety of flavors, from classic buffalo to unique international sauces, keeps fans coming back for more, letting them craft their flavor journey.

3. Nachos: The Layered King of Comfort Foods

·         What fans love: Nachos satisfy cravings for something crunchy, cheesy, and shareable. They’re infinitely adaptable, whether loaded with traditional queso and jalapeños or with toppings like pulled pork and pico de gallo for a twist.

·         Marketing insight: Shareable dishes like nachos tap into the social aspect of sports viewing. Studies show that 72% of fans prefer foods that can be easily shared in a group, making nachos a perfect go-to option.

4. Pizza: The Ultimate Game-Day Essential

·         What fans love: Pizza remains a staple, with flavors that are easy to customize. From classic pepperoni to veggie-loaded or even gourmet toppings, pizza offers something for every taste.

·         Marketing insight: Pizza’s popularity has surged, especially with the rise of premium and artisanal toppings, as fans seek options that feel indulgent yet customizable. Fast-casual and take-and-bake options have both soared, with pizza sales increasing by 15% on major game days over the past few years.

5. Dips and Chips: From Classic to Creative

·         What fans love: Whether it’s guacamole, queso, or a buffalo chicken dip, fans love to dip and munch. Chips and dips are versatile, satisfying the cravings for salty and creamy textures.

·         Marketing insight: Dips allow for cross-promotional marketing, where grocery stores and restaurants can create bundle deals, positioning dips as “add-ons” that encourage incremental sales. The trend toward “snack plates” has driven a 25% increase in dip variety sales.

Crafting the Ultimate Game-Day Spread: Mix-and-Match Strategies

1. Flavor Profiles that Excite and Satisfy

·         Balance Heat with Coolness: Pair spicy items like buffalo wings with cooling sides like ranch or creamy dips. For instance, sliders with spicy toppings work well alongside mild options like guacamole or classic salsa for chips.

·         Add a Sweet Element: Sweet BBQ sliders or teriyaki wings are crowd-pleasers and offer a change of pace from the heavy savory flavors. Throw in a dessert dip—think a caramel or chocolate spread for pretzels—as a surprising finish.

2. Portion Control and Easy Customization

·         Mini-Meals on Repeat: Sliders, wings, and nachos can be served in smaller portions, allowing fans to build a plate based on their flavor cravings without overindulging. This approach encourages a balance of variety, as consumers can try more while managing intake, an increasingly popular choice among younger consumers.

·         Personalized Pizzas: Offering a mix of toppings, fans can create their own pizza lineup or indulge in smaller, individual pizzas. Combine fan-favorite pizza toppings with exclusive “sports-themed” combos that appeal to hardcore fans, like “Buffalo Bills Blue Cheese” or “Blackhawks BBQ.”

3. Drinks that Complement and Elevate

·         Pair for Impact: Fans love pairing wings with beer, but mix in lighter choices like seltzers for variety. Classic beers for the heavier, salty flavors and refreshing cocktails for milder bites create a rounded-out beverage experience.

·         Non-Alcoholic Options: Mocktails and creative non-alcoholic beverages like flavored lemonades or iced teas appeal to a wide audience, tapping into the sober-curious movement. Adding these choices alongside traditional drinks makes for an inclusive setup.

Proven Marketing Strategies for Game Day Foods

1. Bundle Deals and Custom Packages

·         What works: Pre-bundled meal deals including sliders, wings, dips, and drinks simplify the ordering process and boost the check average. For sports fans, time is of the essence, so the “grab-and-go” or “game-day bundle” model has become a winner for grocery stores and restaurants alike.

2. Limited-Time Game Day Flavors

·         What works: Sports-themed flavors, such as “Touchdown Taco” wings or “Hat Trick Habanero” sliders, drive urgency and brand engagement. By positioning these as “limited-time” flavors, restaurants and stores can capitalize on the limited availability factor to drive sales.

3. Pre-Game and Halftime Promotions

·         What works: Many consumers snack more in anticipation of the game or at halftime. Offering a discount on popular items an hour before the game and halftime encourages fans to purchase more at peak times.

In the end, game-day food and snack offerings play a pivotal role in enhancing the sports-watching experience. By aligning popular flavors with mix-and-match options, brands and stores can satisfy fans’ cravings while capitalizing on the social, shared nature of sports viewing. And with smart marketing and bundle deals, they’re set to score big—whether on game day or across a whole sports-packed weekend.

Foodservice Solutions® specializes in outsourced business development. We can help you identify, quantify and qualify additional food retail segment opportunities or a new menu product segment and brand and menu integration strategy.  Foodservice Solutions® of Tacoma WA is the global leader in the Grocerant niche.

Brazil’s AM/PM is a Grocerant Meal Solution

 

Steven Johnson Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions® likes to identify, quantify, and qualify success with the reasy-2-eat and Heat-N-Eat fresh prepared food grocerant niche around the world and recently he was looking at Brazil and sound some success he would like to share. The second-largest convenience store chain in Brazil is AM/PM, which operates primarily within the network of Ipiranga gas stations. Since its launch in 1994, AM/PM has steadily grown to become a leading player in the convenience store market, thanks to its strong affiliation with Ipiranga, one of Brazil's largest fuel distributors. Over the years, AM/PM has capitalized on its strategic locations at service stations, offering an array of products and services that cater to busy consumers looking for quick, convenient solutions.

Historical Perspective: How AM/PM Became the Second-Largest Convenience Store Chain in Brazil

AM/PM’s journey began when Ipiranga saw an opportunity to offer more than just fuel at its service stations. Recognizing a growing trend toward convenience shopping, Ipiranga introduced the AM/PM brand in 1994, providing travelers and commuters with a quick-stop solution for snacks, beverages, and essential items. At the time, convenience retailing was still in its infancy in Brazil, but AM/PM's strategic alignment with Ipiranga's nationwide network gave the brand an instant foothold in the market.

Throughout the 2000s, Brazil experienced economic growth, urbanization, and a rise in disposable income, which shifted consumer behavior. People became more focused on time efficiency and convenience, leading to a boom in the convenience store sector. AM/PM expanded its offerings, introducing a wider variety of products and services, including hot food, fresh sandwiches, and coffee, catering to consumers’ evolving preferences.

In the last decade, AM/PM further solidified its market position by leveraging Ipiranga’s loyalty programs and integrating technology for seamless shopping experiences. Today, AM/PM operates over 2,500 locations across Brazil, making it the second-largest convenience store chain in the country.

Four Consumer Touchpoints That Resonate With AM/PM Customers

1.       Strategic Locations AM/PM’s integration with Ipiranga gas stations provides unmatched convenience for consumers. Located along major highways, urban centers, and residential areas, AM/PM stores are easily accessible to commuters, drivers, and local residents, allowing them to combine refueling with quick, hassle-free shopping.

2.       Variety of Offerings AM/PM’s product range is designed to meet the diverse needs of its customers, from snacks and drinks to fresh food and daily essentials. The availability of both ready-to-eat items like sandwiches and hot meals, alongside beverages and groceries, makes AM/PM a preferred stop for those seeking variety in one location.

3.       Fast and Efficient Service Brazilian consumers value time-saving solutions, and AM/PM delivers with its fast checkout processes and self-service options. Many stores feature quick-serve coffee stations and grab-and-go counters, ensuring that customers can complete their shopping quickly, which is crucial in the fast-paced lifestyles of urban consumers.

4.       Loyalty and Promotions AM/PM benefits from its connection to Ipiranga’s Km de Vantagens loyalty program, one of the largest in Brazil. Consumers earn points not only from fuel purchases but also from their convenience store visits, which they can redeem for discounts, rewards, and promotions. This loyalty program creates strong brand attachment and repeat business.

Five Reasons Why AM/PM Is Positioned for Growth

1.       Expanding Consumer Demand for Convenience The demand for convenience retailing in Brazil continues to grow as urbanization increases and consumer lifestyles become more fast-paced. AM/PM’s ability to offer quick, diverse solutions for everyday needs keeps it well-positioned to attract more customers. As more people seek time-saving shopping experiences, convenience stores like AM/PM will see rising foot traffic.

2.       Integration with Fuel Stations The ongoing growth of Brazil’s vehicle population and the consistent need for fuel means that AM/PM’s location strategy remains a strong advantage. Being tied to Ipiranga gas stations ensures a steady flow of customers who can easily stop for food, beverages, or essentials while refueling. This natural synergy between fuel and convenience continues to drive footfall.

3.       Diversification of Product Offerings AM/PM has steadily expanded its product range to include fresh food, beverages, and even prepared meals, meeting the growing demand for quick yet high-quality food options. This diversification allows the brand to compete with both traditional convenience stores and fast food outlets, appealing to a broad spectrum of consumers.

4.       Leveraging Digital Channels AM/PM is tapping into Brazil’s growing adoption of digital payment solutions, mobile apps, and e-commerce. The brand has incorporated mobile ordering and digital loyalty programs, which attract tech-savvy consumers who appreciate the convenience of pre-ordering and earning rewards through digital platforms. This investment in technology enhances customer engagement and drives repeat business.

5.       Sustainability Initiatives Like many modern retailers, AM/PM is responding to consumer demand for more sustainable practices. The chain has begun incorporating eco-friendly initiatives, such as reducing plastic use, sourcing local products, and promoting responsible waste management. As environmental awareness continues to rise among Brazilian consumers, AM/PM’s commitment to sustainability helps differentiate it from competitors and aligns with the values of a growing customer base.

Think About This

AM/PM’s ascent to becoming Brazil’s second-largest convenience store chain is rooted in its strategic partnership with Ipiranga, consumer-focused offerings, and a keen understanding of the changing marketplace. With its unmatched location advantage, diverse product range, and loyalty-driven customer engagement, AM/PM is well-positioned for future growth. By expanding digital capabilities, embracing sustainability, and continuing to adapt to consumer trends, AM/PM is set to remain a leader in Brazil’s dynamic convenience store sector.

For international corporate presentations, regional chain presentations, educational forums, or keynotes contact: Steven Johnson Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions®.  His extensive experience as a multi-unit restaurant operator, consultant, brand / product positioning expert, and public speaking will leave success clues for all.