In May 2026, we called upon the FCSI community to fill out our survey to better understand the drivers and needs of the global network and engagement. The results are in, and we thank those who took part for their time in providing the valuable insights into the needs, preferences, and engagement drivers of this global membership community.
Through these results, we aim to continue to strengthen FCSI’s role as the diverse global network it is today, building on the community for engaged, influential, professionals who span continents, specialties, and career stages in the foodservice and hospitality industry.
A network of decision-makers
In total, we received survey responses from 215 members worldwide, with the majority based in the Europe, Africa and Middle East Division (63%), followed by The Americas Division (28%) and Asia Pacific Division (12%). More than half of respondents hold senior leadership roles: 60% are decision-makers, 68% specify over $1m in equipment annually, and 74% influence specification decisions.
It was clear the community is also characterized by the breadth of specialisms: while consultants remain at the core, there is strong representation from manufacturers, suppliers, and industry specialists, allowing diversity to broaden the network’s expertise while fostering a culture of knowledge sharing and collaboration.
The top driver of engagement within FCSI was networking, cited by 82% of respondents, for opportunities to connect with peers, share experiences, and build professional relationships, with industry insight (74%), professional development (61%), and technical knowledge (49%), cited as primary reasons for membership.
Content is king
It was clear that FCSI’s Foodservice Consultant portfolio is impactful, particularly the magazine and e-newsletter, while the website presents opportunity for future development. 96% of respondents described the magazine as ‘good’ or ‘excellent’, and 65% said it has influenced their work. The newsletter also receives high satisfaction scores (95%), serving as the preferred communication channel for 35% of members.
The website, while positively viewed by 73% for user experience, represents the clearest opportunity for improvement. Members desire enhanced networking tools, better event functionality, more personalized content, and expanded educational resources, with the website evolving to serve as a real engagement hub as well as content base.
For member content, industry news (68%), case studies (65%), and technical features (54%) are the most valued types, with demand for more project showcases, technical learning, innovation coverage, and practical knowledge sharing, so that members can gain more industry awareness with actionable insights to apply to their own work.
Thinking ahead
Results also revealed that member needs evolve over time, as newer members focus on learning, professional development, and technical knowledge, while more established members emphasize networking, industry recognition, and community engagement, revealing an opportunity for FCSI to develop tailored support and resources for members at different stages of their careers.
By enhancing our digital platforms, expanding educational offerings, and leveraging insights and knowledge from our diverse network, while maintaining our strengths in networking and in-person events, FCSI aims to continue being a dynamic and community-driven resource for foodservice professionals.
Thank you to everyone who completed the survey. Bruno Magro FCSI, managing director of Think Food Concepts, based in Shanghai, was the lucky winner in the random draw for a $250 Amazon voucher.
Further details:
Keen to share your thoughts, or have ideas for what content you’d like to see on FCSI? Get in touch at editorial@foodserviceconsultant.com.
Lauren Hurrell
