MAGAZINE

This summer, menus seem to be shifting fast. Quick-service, bakery and fast-casual brands are among the many rolling out new launches almost weekly, reacting to what customers want – healthier options, viral trends and more flexible dining experiences.

Operators big and small are feeling the pressure to adapt without breaking budgets or straying too far from their core identity. Whether it’s adding a fresh salad to a fried-chicken concept or dropping a limited-edition dessert, even small tweaks can feel like big risks. But with rising costs across hospitality, attracting customers through your doors has never been more urgent – or more competitive.

Thinking about updating your menu? Start with your customers. Ask them directly at the counter. Run polls on social media. Start a conversation and build loyalty. And for more inspiration, head to page 16, where we spotlight what’s hot on the high street right now and how you can make it your own.

Already confident your menu is a winner? Prove it by entering the Street Food Championships at streetfoodchampions.co.uk. 

Still on the fence? Turn to page 34 to hear from last year’s champ, Bigmouths Kitchen, and discover how the win has helped him upgrade his setup. Or perhaps the prize of a rent-free spot at Mercato Metropolitano has piqued your interest? Read about how we’re teaming up to provide the winner with the ultimate prize on page 8.

And while it’s hard to believe we’re already in August, I hope the summer of sunshine we’ve had so far has helped boost sales and brightened what might be a gloomy outlook for the sector.

Until next time, 

Tamsyn Halm
Editor