Snacking with Gen Z; Twinkies & Ding Dongs; What Would Sarah Conner Do?; Fast Casual Happenings; Helping Morocco

Snack Psycholo-Z— As brands fight for share of Gen Z, they turn to research for a better understanding of how to get deeper into their target’s pockets. Like all gens, Z loves to snack, but not quite like everyone else. Quick breakdown: they like chewy, unhealthy, name-brand snacks. Of course, there are implications. Jelly-Cream Filled? Please?— Smucker (the renown jelly maker) has purchased Hostess Brands. Does this mean there’s going to be jelly in your Ding Dongs? Likely not… But we can dream. In other big food transactions;  Campbell’s Soup recently acquired Sovos Brands (owner of Rao’s pasta sauce) and Mars acquired Kevin’s Natural Foods back in June. Trend of the Year— Everyone say it with us now, “A – I;” it’s pretty much everywhere. And it has been; for years. Brands like Domino’s have been using it since 2014. These days the likes of Chipotle, Starbucks, Yum Brands: Taco Bell and KFC, and even IHOP— are using AI to predict demand, streamline inventory, and personalize customer experiences (menus in this case). White Castle is even using it at the drive-thru. Solid Strategy— Smash Burger, the darling fast-casual restaurant, is focusing on the line between fast and casual by creating a more compelling in-person dining experience; complete with open kitchens where you can actually see the burger smashing… and booze. Finally— Some compassion for those in need.