"Don't focus on being the best. Focus on being the only." This is one of the best quotes I've heard recently from Andrew Zimmern at the University of Massachusetts Amherst Culinary event. There is too much chasing of the same trends, the same data, or competitive activity. Chasing rarely leads to innovation that really pushes the industry forward, which is particularly what foodservice needs at a time when its relevancy is increasingly threatened. And, as was pointed out in this presentation, it's not just relevancy that needs to be addressed but a host of fundamental and existential problems that must be solved. #innovation #tremds2024 #campusdining #foodandbeverageindustry #foodservice #chefs #cpg
Hey Maeve. I was pretty stoked to speak before Andrew. It was funny that he could Not remember my name….. Andrew!! But such a ringing endorsement of my work on the ONLY. Seaweed-ish “Meat”ball. And his love of sea vegetables as an important food of the future and the environment.
We all need this reminder. Wish I was there with you!!
Loved the statement, too! Maeve Webster you had a few great points also ... Already sharing some the key stats about GenZ's needs and nurturing.
"Focus on being the only"- this certainly resonates with me in this time of my life and career! Thanks for sharing Maeve!
I will add this quote: “Innovation requires leaving the safety of the herd.”
You're right, Maeve Webster. Focusing on solving unique customer needs can lead to true differentiation and a sense of being 'only.
This was my favorite takeaway as well!
Great quote Maeve Webster! Stop chasing what everyone else is doing and carve out your own unique space!
This is why I'm so proud of Aussie Select. But unfortunately being the "only" has its own very hard road. Creating a new category requires early adopters and champions who are willing to simply try. It's unfortunate to me how frequently the gatekeepers (ie distributors) of this industry that craves innovation, are barriers to adopt it.