The Americas
Interest in climate-smart dining is rising faster than the foodservice industry can offer
Climate-smart dining is increasing in popularity, particularly among Gen Z and Millennials, but foodservice operators aren’t moving at the same pace as customers. New data from BITE: Building Impact Through Eaters and Datassential, based on surveys of 1,506 US consumers and 400 foodservice operators, explores where expectations align, and where opportunities exist for foodservice operators to meet demand. The research shows that younger generations increasingly expect climate-smart options when dining out, such as plant-forward meals, sustainably sourced ingredients, and new food experiences. Operators are navigating challenges such as menu adaptation, pricing strategies, and building confidence among cooks and chefs to meet these demands.
1 in every 14 foodservice workers in the US were unemployed in 2026
In February 2026, 1 in every 14 foodservice workers in the US were unemployed, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics data, putting the industry unemployment rate at 7.1% in February 2026, which is nearly double the national average of approximately 4.1%. This figure represents an estimated 875,000 food service workers actively looking for work but unable to find it. In 2026 the industry lost 29,700 jobs from January to February alone. While this figure was higher two years ago, with 1 in every 20 unemployed, trends have shown that workers filling roles are increasingly cycling through positions rather than building longer tenures.
Asia Pacific
Iran war threatens kitchens and sales of Indian QSR giants including McDonald’s and KFC
Supply disruptions due to the Iran war may affect India’s quick-service restaurant chains, including McDonald’s, Domino’s, and KFC, leading to potential shortages and higher costs due to liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) supply issues. The impact may force companies to absorb higher fuel costs or raise menu prices, affecting restaurant-level margins, according to a JM Financial research note. The issue could create operational challenges for the QSR sector, which relies heavily on gas-based kitchens.
Kyoto, Japan’s accommodation tax has increased
Coming into effect March 1 2026, the city of Kyoto has introduced a five-tier accommodation tax structure, with top rates rising to 10,000 yen per person per night in attempt to tackle overtourism. The tax increase, which officially took effect this month, is expected to generate more than $46.6 million in additional annual revenue. This will mean travelers staying in higher-priced properties could now pay up to US$66.67 per person per night, marking a tenfold increase from the former top rate. The lowest amount is for stays in the band priced between US$333.33 and US$666.66, now subject to a $26.67 tax.
Europe, Middle East and Africa
Noma chef resigns following staff abuse allegations
René Redzepi, head chef and co-founder of Copenhagen-based restaurant, Noma, which has frequently been voted the world’s best restaurant, has announced his resignation amid allegations that he physically abused staff. This comes after the New York Times revealed allegations of both physical and psychological abuse, detailing claims that he “punched employees in the face, jabbed them with kitchen implements and slammed them against walls”. In response, he posted on Instagram that he had “decided to step away and allow our extraordinary leaders to now guide the restaurant into its next chapter.” He added that recent weeks had “brought attention and important conversations about our restaurant, industry and my past leadership”, and that he has “worked to be a better leader and Noma has taken big steps to transform the culture over many years. I recognize these changes do not repair the past. An apology is not enough; I take responsibility for my own actions.”
Celebrity chef Heston Blumenthal to close two-Michelin-star restaurant in London
After 16 years, chef Heston Blumenthal will close his two Michelin-star restaurant, Dinner, in London. Following months of speculation, the news was confirmed by Blumenthal in an interview with The Times, revealing the “bittersweet” decision. He noted the end of the tenancy at the Mandarin Oriental hotel in Knightsbridge, rising food prices and his diagnosis with bipolar disorder as factors. “There are some huge feelings there… sadness. It’s bittersweet, but it has run its natural course, said Blumenthal. “We are effectively tenants in a building and our tenancy is finished.”
Lauren Hurrell
