The webinar was moderated by Peter Jordan, TOPOSOPHY’s Head of Insights, who opened the discussion by presenting the 10 Digital Trends that are currently shaping the food service industry. The presentation incorporated actionable insights and global data analysed by our research team, setting the stage for a dynamic panel discussion.
The panel included the following esteemed speakers:
- Marine Thizon, Public Affairs Manager at HOTREC
- Michel De Bloos, CEO of Sabai Sabai
- Luis H. Rodríguez, Research Manager at Barrabès
The session concluded with an interactive Q&A, where the expert panelists shared practical insights tailored for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) aiming to navigate the digital transition effectively.
The webinar highlighted 10 key digital trends impacting the restaurant industry. Here we’ve picked five of the most relevant:
- The Rise of In-Depth Online Reviews
Research by the Italian Federation of Public Establishments (FIPE) revealed that two-thirds of Italian diners rely on reviews before choosing a restaurant. Panelists emphasised how reviews—specifically, detailed negative ones—can strongly influence consumer behaviour and decision-making.
- Fake Reviews in the Age of AI
AI-generated and fake reviews pose significant challenges for the industry. Initiatives like the EU's push for stricter regulations and tools such as FIPE's "SOS Reviews Desk" aim to combat review fraud. Collaborative efforts, including the Coalition for Trusted Reviews, stress transparency, robust detection mechanisms, and streamlined reporting processes in order to rebuild consumer trust.
- Personalisation in Dining Experiences
Personalisation has emerged as a major theme in consumers’ preferences, with over 80% of diners under 40 valuing tailored recommendations in their digital interactions. AI tools are being employed to optimise menus and provide customised suggestions, particularly appealing to younger audiences and solo diners, a growing demographic in the dining landscape.
- The Role of Social Media and Content Creation
Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok remain vital for restaurant visibility. While Instagram is still the most popular platform among diners, TikTok is rapidly gaining traction with Gen Z. The panel underscored the importance of diverse content strategies to engage audiences across multiple platforms.
- Sustainability Through Technology
Innovative apps like “Too Good to Go” and “Encantado de Comerte” demonstrate how technology can tackle food waste while aligning with sustainability goals. These tools offer practical solutions for restaurants and consumers, helping to reduce waste and maintain profitability.
The Q&A session addressed the unique challenges SMEs face when adopting digital tools, such as limited resources, resistance to change, and technical skill gaps. Key solutions discussed included:
- Leveraging frameworks like the RESTwithEU Digital Pathway Tool for step-by-step digital adoption guidance
- Prioritising scalable investments in AI-powered menu optimisation and social media marketing
The restaurant industry is at a pivotal moment where technology not only enhances operational efficiency but also redefines consumer engagement. Personalisation, authenticity, and sustainability have become central themes, shaping the future of dining experiences. By embracing these trends and leveraging digital tools, restaurants can position themselves for resilience, growth, and success in an increasingly competitive marketplace.
