CFVG Menu Vision: Blending Tradition with Trend

Final Reflection

GLP-1 Drugs and Health Trends Myra Kressner , president of Kressner Strategy Group and Vision Group Network co-founder, men- tioned that VGN Vision Groups have discussed the topic of GLP-1 drugs and health at several recent meetings and asked Conaghan if recent trends, especially related to protein, were being shaped by the use of these drugs. Conaghan confirmed that Datassential has research in the area and the most visible impact so far is increased interest in protein-forward items, particularly those labeled by protein type or that offer a protein choice. However, she noted there hasn’t yet been a significant shift in specific menu items directly tied to GLP-1 usage. Eva Strasburger added that operators have

The CFVG discussion focused on menu innovation in convenience stores, emphasizing the balance between trend-forward offerings and familiar core items to appeal across generations. Operators highlighted strategies like safe experimentation, localized testing, simplified menus, and agile use of existing ingredients to manage risk and inventory. Emerging trends like cold brew expansion and the influence of GLP-1 drugs on consumer preferences were identified as key areas for further exploration. Several VGN Vision Groups have discussed the effects of GLP-1 medications on convenience retail. CLVG Expecting the Unexpected: Foreseeing Potential Disruptions, November 2024 CLVG The Skinny on GLP-1s and Their Impact on the Convenience Industry , May 2025 GCVG Adapting to Changing Palates and Production, June 2025

observed a consumer move away from fatty or fried foods, such as fried chicken, among those on GLP-1s, with rotisserie chicken gaining traction as a leaner, more appealing alternative. Poye emphasized the broader impli- cations of GLP-1 usage, suggesting it could significantly influence not just foodservice menus but also center store offerings in convenience. He proposed a dedicated deep dive into GLP-1 impacts for a future meeting, noting that the pace and breadth of the trend appear to warrant close attention. Group members expressed strong interest in continuing the conversation and learn- ing more about its effects on consumer behavior and product strategy.

About a-week-and-a-half ago, we had an opportunity in a separate Vision Group to really do a deep dive into the GLP-1 or the Ozempic type of drugs and how that was impacting purchases, both from a household point of view, but also restaurants and to-go types of foods. And I’d have to say, I entered the meeting, not skeptical, but just not taking the idea that it was going to have that big of an impact on convenience. But I think that these types of drugs could have a significant impact to convenience, not just in the menu development and the types of menus that we have in it from a foodservice perspective, but the central store component as well. Richard Poye , COO of Food Trends Think Tank and CFVG Facilitator