It’s that time of year – a time to reflect and take pride in all you’ve accomplished. It has been another banner year at JGL, and we wanted to share some of this year’s company highlights.
In 2025…
- JGL has worked on a record number of projects this year, including the most Feasibility Studies ever, and we tied last year’s Assessment record. We also contracted more RFP’s in a single year than ever before!
- JGL has also set a new record for the number of retail projects managed!
- JGL prides itself on maintaining long-term relationships with clients, which was evident in 2025 after seeing that nearly 60% of our business came from previous clients!
- JGL has completed more on-site travel this year than ever before. Up, up, and away! Hello frequent flyer status 😊
- JGL brought on a new consultant, Lisa Baptista, who has been with us since March and has been a crucial (and timely) addition to our bustling team!
As busy as we have been this year, we are always thinking ahead. Before closing out the year, we thought it would be fun to share some trends we feel are going to be hot topics in 2026.
FOOD SERVICE TRENDS
Loving Local
This eco-friendly practice will see even more innovation in 2026. Even large food service providers are seeking uniquely made local ingredients such as spices, butter, breads, candies, ice cream, and more to create a sense of connection with their clients while communicating freshness and sustainability.
Holiday Fever
In our practice, we see more museums, gardens, and zoos promoting after-hours public events that celebrate the holidays and not just in December! Seasonal-themed culinary delights like candy apples, s’mores, and hot chocolate drive additional revenue and create guest engagement.
Going Global
Everything Korea will be hitting college campuses and beyond. Products like gochujang and kimchi are on the way to becoming everyday American condiments. Sweet and savory global mashups like cayenne and Dubai chocolate, colapotle (chipotle and cola), and tahini soft serve ice cream will be on the college scene too!
Return‑to‑Office Trends Drive a New Era of Workplace Dining
More companies changed their return-to-work policies this past year, requiring employees to work at least 3-4 days/week in the office, with significant variability on Mondays and Fridays. Because of daily population fluctuations, most companies are subsidizing their food program (in some cases, completely) even if they weren’t doing so pre-pandemic. JGL predicts an increased focus on dining that incorporates quick-service styles, freshly made food, local restaurant pop-ups, and creative surprise and delight moments to engage employes.
Operational Technology
Advancements in technology, such as artificial intelligence, smart kitchen equipment, and robotics are helping food service providers improve efficiency and customer service. This includes everything from automated cooking processes to AI-driven inventory management. For customers, day-to-day decision-making will be made easier with AI-powered ordering and personalization.
RETAIL TRENDS
Leading with Technology
AI tops the list again, reshaping retail for 2026. In fact, brands are building their strategy around it. AI is being used to forecast sales and predict which products consumers will be interested in buying. AI is also helping with pricing strategies and dynamic pricing. Personalization continues to drive retail sales in many stores. Having products exclusively developed for the consumer is much more appealing than having large amounts of the same item.
Insights, analytics, and data are being used now more than ever to operate retail businesses. With rising costs, shoppers have less disposable income, and retailers must make smarter buying decisions. Technology is fueling smarter retail practices.
Cost Conscious Consumers
Lingering inflation prompts retail consumers to search for more value-priced items. Shoppers are buying more cautiously and selectively. With retail prices rising primarily due to tariffs, consumers are shopping around for the best price.
Sustainable Products
Sustainable products continue to increase their market share. Consumers expect products to be not only sustainable but also to support a cause. This is especially true for Gen Z and Millennials. Eco-friendly products are seeing higher sales and more loyalty.
We can probably go on until the New Year about all our 2026 predictions for food service and retail operations, but we will leave you with this for now as something to ‘chew’ on…
JGL could not be more grateful for another thriving year. We truly enjoy connecting and working with all of our clients (past and present) and helping them accomplish their goals. Feel free to reach out to us to talk more about all things food service and retail merchandise in 2026!!
Happy Holidays from the JGL team!!