The effect of climbing food prices is being felt across the world with several different staple foodstuffs reaching record levels and this is having a knock-on effect on consumer prices both in and out of home. These increases and occasional shortage of supply are being caused by a variety of reasons that may not always be clear-cut.

According to our latest consumer research, 84% of Brits think the UK will enter into recession, up from 57% only three months earlier (HIM recession survey, March and June 2008) and unfortunately out-of-home-eating is one key area where consumers are planning to cut back spend in the next 12 months.

Foodservice operators in the US are already feeling the pinch as the economy heads towards recession and are turning to price wars, smaller portions and cheaper ingredients in order to survive the downturn.

Often catering is at the back of the outlet or behind closed doors and therefore out of sight out of mind. But many gastro pubs and restaurants like Pizza Express are bringing the catering into the sight of the customers. This brings customers into the cooking experience, creating theatre and reassuring them that food is prepared hygienically, but also meaning any brands in the kitchen are on display.