With consumer perceptions of the economy about as bleak as a winter weather forecast in the Midwest, it’s no wonder marketers are embracing any and all methods to reach consumers. As social media outreach and interactive marketing evolves and innovates, some brands continue to use more traditional consumer outreach.
Chicago-based foodservice research and consulting firm Technomic Inc. released seven trends for U.S. restaurants in 2012, one of which noted that “shell-shocked consumers are in no mood to take risks, but novel flavors still tingle their taste buds.” For the restaurant industry, Technomic recommends comfort foods with a twist or innovation in familiar formats, such as sandwiches, pizza and pasta.