The Food & Beverage industry is a huge one, generating more than $164 billion in value added annually. In fact, food and drink companies account for about 15.3% of the food dollar spent by consumers in the United States. And that number is growing, thanks to the proliferation of new products and innovative ways of making them. But what does that mean for consumers? Read on for some of the biggest changes in the food industry in 2015.
The Food and Beverage Association of America is a nonprofit association founded in 1956 that promotes friendship among members, encourages continuing education, and aids in career development. It also offers scholarships and philanthropic support for important social issues. Founded in 1956, the FBAA is comprised of individuals from the hospitality industry. Through its Scholarship and Awards Programs, it invests in the future of the hospitality industry. Through these programs, the association provides financial assistance to future hospitality professionals who have demonstrated scholastic superiority and need.
Consumer attitudes towards food and beverage have also changed, and food companies are responding. The food and beverage industry was hit hard by the U.S. economic collapse in 2008. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans, released in 2015, recommend that Americans consume a variety of foods with a low-fat or reduced-fat content. As a result, food & beverage companies are responding to consumer demand for healthier, more convenient products.
A strong work ethic and attention to detail are key qualities for an Assistant Food & Beverage Manager. The ideal candidate will be experienced in Banquet operations and other Food & Beverage outlets. He or she must also be comfortable with guest service, menu writing, cost control, and merchandising. Lastly, he or she must be familiar with industrial size dish machines and be comfortable with repetitive motions.
Companies involved in the Food & Beverage industry include those involved in the preparation, serving, and packaging of food. The industry encompasses alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages. Food and beverage establishments are usually managed by a head waiter or captain waiter. Those involved in the dining area include the head waiter, kitchen manager, and food attendants. Food and beverage management encompasses the entire food and beverage supply chain, from raw materials to final products.
A hotel’s Food & Beverage Department is the second largest revenue-producing department. Apart from providing delicious and nutritious meals, the department also provides 24-hour services. Whether it is a wayside tea stall, midday meal service, or industrial workers, food and beverage operations can be of all sizes and styles. A few of the most popular food and beverage operations are listed below:
A career in the Food & Beverage industry requires a keen knowledge of different types of food and beverage, and excellent presentation skills. Food has always played a vital role in our society. Food can be traced back to cave dwelling people, when women were responsible for gathering the food. And in most cases, this hasn’t changed much. So, food and beverage professionals are vital for the overall success of any restaurant.
In 2013, the average volume of sales per food & beverage establishment in Canada and the United States was approximately $2,000. In BC, Alberta, and the United States, the average annual volume of food and drink was $2,000 or more. This figure may appear small in scale, but it is still quite significant. And it is an important sector that has a large potential for growth. And despite the low-level competition, the industry is booming.
Statistics Canada’s Food & Beverage sector employs 1.1 million people and operates in more than 88,000 locations. In 2014, the industry generated $71 billion in sales, accounting for about 4% of the entire Canadian economy. And one out of five Canadian youth started their careers in restaurants. The industry is also the most popular way to spend time with friends and family, with a majority of people preferring to eat out.