May 2026
Mike’s Take: From the Road
What I’m hearing from restaurant operators—and why it matters
One of the most common questions I’ve been asked recently is about consistency:
“How does DMA manage multiple distributor brands while maintaining consistency across locations?”
The answer comes down to how our network is built.
Our distributor members maintain their strong regional identities and relationships — that’s what makes them effective partners. DMA brings those local leaders together into a coordinated national solution, giving operators both flexibility and scale.
When it comes to product consistency, we work closely with customers to ensure alignment across markets. In many cases, while the label may differ, the manufacturer, specifications, and product quality remain the same — so there’s no impact on what you’re serving.
DMA partners also carry a broader mix of national brands than many competitors, giving operators more flexibility and stronger contracting opportunities.
My Bottom Line
Consistency isn’t about everything looking identical, it’s about delivering the same quality and experience, everywhere you operate.
That’s exactly what DMA is designed to do: strong local execution, aligned at a national level.
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A Note from DMA
May continued to highlight the balance between innovation and ongoing pressure points across the foodservice landscape. While the National Restaurant Association Show showcased new ideas and operational tools, broader headwinds — particularly inflation and supply chain disruption — remain top of mind. Across distribution, retail, and manufacturing, leaders are leaning into technology, strategic sourcing, and disciplined execution to navigate a complex and evolving environment.
Here’s a look at the stories shaping foodservice right now — and what they could mean for all of us.
A Look into DMA’s Party at the Post Office
Last week, we had an incredible time bringing together industry friends and partners during our Party at the Post Office. Thank you to everyone who attended, you’re what makes events like this so special.
📸 Relive the evening and check out the photos
Password: hy7ZiH8HtO
Thanks again for making it such a memorable evening!
Industry News
Technomic’s Market of the Month - Boise City, ID
Market of the Month: Boise City, ID
Boise City is emerging as a high-growth foodservice market, driven by strong momentum and an affluent consumer base. According to Technomic’s Ignite Company market-level insights, the market includes more than 2,200 locations and generated approximately $2.7B in 2025 sales, with continued acceleration driven by 8.2% growth in 2025 and a projected 9.5% increase in 2026.
While it ranks as the 60th-largest U.S. market, Boise offers a compelling mix of scale and growth potential — making it an attractive expansion market for brands seeking momentum outside major metros
Affluence & Lifestyle Shaping Demand
Boise’s demographics point to a high-income, stable consumer base with strong purchasing power.
Key demographic insights:
Population: 826K (0.3% of the U.S.)
Over-indexing households earning $100K–$149K
Over-indexing households earning $75K–$99K
These dynamics support continued demand for convenience-driven, everyday dining, particularly across limited-service and beverage-led concepts.
Learn more about [Technomic Ignite Company Industry Market Size Data]
Innovation and Efficiency Take Center Stage at NRA Show
The 2026 National Restaurant Association Show in Chicago reinforced a clear industry priority: doing more with less. With more than 53,000 attendees and 2,000+ exhibitors, much of the focus centered on automation, AI-driven equipment, and tools designed to improve efficiency and offset rising costs.
Rather than expansion-focused, the tone emphasized practical execution improvements — streamlining operations, reducing labor dependency, and driving consistency across locations.
As a result, operators are prioritizing:
Operational efficiency over labor-heavy processes
Technology adoption to control costs
Scalable solutions that improve consistency
For distributors and suppliers, this reinforces the value of reliability, flexibility, and execution support at the unit level.
Industry News (Continued)
Measured Growth Continues Amid Ongoing Pressure
Industry coverage throughout May reflects steady but disciplined growth, with operators continuing to balance demand against cost pressures. Insights across Total Food Service point to ongoing development alongside a stronger focus on efficiency and execution.
Expansion remains on the table, but with greater scrutiny around cost structure, operational control, and long-term ROI.
As a result, the industry is leaning toward:
ROI-driven growth over rapid expansion
Simplified operations and menus
Greater adaptability across formats
For distribution partners, consistency and service reliability remain critical as operators navigate tighter margins.
Store News
Cava raises full-year guidance following strong first quarter performance
Cava reported a strong first quarter, with same-store sales increasing 9.7% and traffic up 6.8%, outperforming key fast-casual peers. The results prompted the brand to raise its full-year outlook and expand plans for new unit growth, reinforcing continued momentum in the Mediterranean fast-casual segment. Full Story
Jack in the Box evaluates footprint and turnaround efforts amid declining sales
Jack in the Box is reassessing its restaurant base and operational strategy following continued same-store sales declines, including plans to close underperforming units. The move highlights broader pressure across legacy QSR brands to optimize footprint and improve unit-level economics. Full Story
KFC introduces $5 value deal as part of broader comeback strategy
KFC launched a limited-time “5 for $5 Tenders” offer for rewards members, alongside new menu items and returning fan favorites. The move reflects continued emphasis on value-driven promotions as the brand works to regain market share and sustain recent positive sales momentum. Full Story
McDonald’s doubles down on value strategy to drive traffic
McDonald’s continues to expand its McValue platform with under-$3 items and bundled meal deals, reinforcing a long-term focus on affordability. The strategy reflects ongoing efforts to win back price-sensitive consumers while maintaining traffic in a competitive QSR environment. Full Story
Store News (Continued)
Starbucks leans into seasonal menu innovation to boost traffic
Starbucks launched its Summer 2026 menu featuring new tropical beverages and returning favorites, alongside expanded customization options. The rollout highlights how major coffee chains are relying on LTOs and product innovation to drive repeat visits amid increased competition. Full Story
Taco Bell Expands Beverage Strategy with Cold Brew Launch
Taco Bell introduced cold brew offerings with flavored foam as part of its broader push into the competitive beverage space. The move reflects growing operator focus on high-margin beverage innovation. Full Story
Whataburger Introduces New Limited-Time Chicken Offering
Whataburger launched a new hot honey chicken sandwich, continuing its focus on flavor innovation and LTO-driven traffic. Limited-time offerings remain a key strategy for driving guest engagement. Full Story
Executives on the Move
Leadership changes across major brands continue to reflect where the industry is investing for the future:
Ajinomoto Foods North America appointed Dave Gardner as President and CEO, elevating the former Chief Supply Chain Officer to lead the company’s next phase of growth and innovation across its frozen food portfolio. Full Story
BakeMark named Sean Leer as Chief Executive Officer, bringing in the food distribution veteran to guide the company’s next phase of operational and commercial growth. Full Story
Chipotle appointed Fernando Machado as Chief Brand Officer, adding the longtime restaurant marketing executive to oversee global brand strategy and customer engagement initiatives. Full Story
Conagra Brands named John Brase as President and CEO, tapping the former J.M. Smucker executive to lead the company through its next phase of portfolio and brand growth. Full Story
Miller’s Ale House promoted Joel Chick to Chief Executive Officer, elevating the longtime company leader to oversee the restaurant chain’s continued expansion and operational strategy. Full Story
Shake Shack named Michelle Hook as Chief Financial Officer, adding the former Portillo’s executive to support the brand’s continued national expansion and financial strategy. Full Story
Sweetgreen appointed Ryan Slemons as Chief Development Officer, tasking the restaurant growth executive with leading expansion and development strategy across the brand. Full Story
Wendy’s named Robert Wright as President and CEO, bringing back the former Wendy’s executive to help accelerate operational performance and long-term growth initiatives. Full Story
Supply Chain News
Manufacturing Investment Shifts Toward Efficiency Over Expansion
Food and beverage manufacturers are rethinking how and where they invest in production capacity, with a growing focus on modernizing existing facilities rather than expanding footprint. Recent data shows planned project activity declined in 2025, and while investment is rebounding, much of it is being directed toward upgrades and efficiency improvements.
In fact, renovations and modernization projects now account for a significant share of capital spending, as companies look to reduce costs, improve throughput, and replace aging infrastructure. Targeted expansion is still happening, particularly in high-growth categories like dairy and protein—but it is far more selective than in previous cycles.
As a result, manufacturers are prioritizing:
Facility modernization over new builds
Efficiency gains through upgraded equipment and automation
Selective expansion tied to high-demand categories
For distributors and supply chain partners, this trend reinforces the shift toward tighter, more efficient networks, with greater emphasis on reliability, throughput, and alignment with evolving production strategies.
Supply Chain News (Continued)
Technology Investment Accelerates to Improve Supply Chain Visibility
In response to ongoing volatility, companies are accelerating adoption of technology across the supply chain. AI, IoT, and blockchain tools are being used to improve traceability, monitor product conditions, and provide real-time data from origin to delivery.
This shift reflects a broader move toward more proactive and data-driven supply chain management, particularly for perishable goods where timing and visibility are critical.
As a result, organizations are focusing on:
Real-time tracking and inventory visibility
Predictive analytics to improve forecasting
Reducing waste through better data and control
For distributors and partners, this trend increases the need to integrate with tech-enabled systems and support more transparent, data-driven networks.
Supply Chain Vulnerabilities Extend Beyond Core Ingredients
Recent disruptions are highlighting that supply chain risk extends beyond core food inputs to include packaging, materials, and secondary components. Even minor shortages—such as key inputs used in packaging—are creating downstream impacts on production and availability.
These challenges underscore how interconnected supply chains have become, where small disruptions can scale quickly across the system.
As a result, companies are focusing on:
Greater visibility beyond tier-one suppliers
Contingency planning for secondary inputs
Broader risk assessment across supply networks
For distributors, understanding the full scope of supplier dependencies is becoming increasingly important in maintaining continuity.
Economic Pulse
Global Pressures Continue to Shape Near-Term Planning
Industry momentum in May continues to be shaped by external pressures, particularly those tied to global supply chain disruption and rising input costs. Ongoing geopolitical instability is impacting energy, fertilizer, and transportation — creating ripple effects throughout food production and distribution.
While demand remains relatively stable, these pressures are reinforcing a more cautious approach to planning and investment across the industry.
As a result, operators are focusing on:
Cost control and margin protection
Flexible sourcing and supplier diversification
Short-term planning over long-term expansion bets
For distribution partners, these conditions underscore the need for reliability, adaptability, and the ability to help operators navigate ongoing volatility.
Commodity Pressures Continue to Impact Operator Margins
Beyond headline inflation, commodity-specific increases — particularly in beef and coffee — are adding another layer of pressure for operators. Recent data shows continued cost increases tied to supply constraints and broader market conditions.
These targeted increases are forcing more nuanced decision-making, especially for operators heavily exposed to key protein or beverage categories.
As a result, brands are focusing on:
Menu engineering to offset high-cost items
Shifting demand toward alternative proteins
Managing mix to protect profitability
For suppliers, understanding category-specific pressure points is becoming increasingly critical in supporting operator strategy.
Regulatory Update
New Foodservice Regulations Are Increasing Pressure on Compliance and Visibility
Recent industry discussions, including Foodini’s latest webinar on upcoming regulatory changes, highlight a growing shift toward stricter compliance requirements across the foodservice and supply chain landscape.
While the specifics vary by category, the overarching theme is clear: operators, manufacturers, and distributors are being asked to deliver greater transparency, traceability, and consistency across their operations.
These updates reflect a broader regulatory environment that is becoming more data-driven and accountability-focused, particularly as food safety, sourcing, and reporting standards continue to evolve.
As a result, companies are prioritizing:
Stronger product traceability and documentation
Alignment between suppliers, distributors, and operators
Systems that improve visibility across the supply chain
For operators, these changes introduce additional complexity, but also an opportunity. Those who can align early, streamline compliance processes, and work with partners who provide clear visibility will be better positioned to manage risk and maintain consistency across their operations.
For distribution networks, these developments reinforce the importance of standardization, communication, and coordination— ensuring that compliance requirements are met without disrupting performance.
Regulatory Update (Continued)
Ultra‑Processed Food Debate Gains Momentum in U.S. Policy Discussions
A new report from Healthy Eating Research is advancing efforts to formally define ultra‑processed foods (UPFs) and guide future policy decisions.
The report reflects growing momentum among policymakers to address UPF consumption, with potential implications for labeling, school meal programs, and broader nutrition policy. A key focus is moving toward a more nuanced approach — recognizing that not all processed foods should be treated equally.
For the industry, this signals growing attention on:
How products are categorized and labeled
The role of processing in nutrition policy
Potential downstream impact on foodservice programs
For operators, these evolving definitions could influence how products are positioned, sourced, and evaluated in regulated environments over time.
