The convenience store brands currently in expansion mode are seeking sites within new population growth markets that are still underpenetrated, such as the Carolinas, Utah, Idaho, Tennessee and even the Dakotas. Empty lots or vacant buildings along major highways and thoroughfares in rural and suburban settings are especially sought after. Look for secondary and tertiary More
The average customer may think of a seafood restaurant as a formal full-service extravagant ordeal with a hefty price tag. But the fish-themed restaurants that are currently trending with growth are the ones that emphasize a more down-to-earth, family friendly and affordable dining experience. Many of these brands specialize in the southern-style Cajun crab boil More
Americans love indulging in sweets, so expect to see new trends in the dessert realm. This will be an especially popular segment as recession woes continue, forcing the average consumer to limit discretionary expenses. If a starving student or a struggling family forgoes dining out on the weekend, an exception would most likely be made More
With labor shortages seemingly having no end in sight, expect to see more retail and restaurant brands coming up with creative ways to offset this dilemma. Lately solutions have involved utilizing robotic technology in lieu of human employees to handle basic tasks. One example of this is the Piestro pod, developed by Wavemaker Labs — More
Immersive art concepts are definitely a growing trend in the U.S., with brands in this category taking over large vacant spaces not just in empty warehouses, but also in retail malls. A few of these concepts are even franchising their business model, and are ready to embark on major growth in the U.S. One such More
There has been an uptick of real estate growth for laser beauty treatment services. This may be because while women — and, increasingly, men — still want to maintain a youthful appearance as they age, they are now becoming wary of spending excess money on more extreme, permanent procedures, whether that is plastic surgery or electrolysis. The idea of a non-invasive procedure that utilizes the latest in laser technology is a welcome solution for today’s discerning beauty customer. More
Total retail sales growth in the second quarter of this year were 3.8%, which was well below the five-year quarterly average of 7%, according to CBRE research. Experts note this could be a sign that falling consumer sentiment is beginning to affect retail sales. But retail sales did rebound in June to 1% after increasing More
Americans today are more than ready to enjoy their newfound freedom from the previous years’ lockdown stresses and are yearning to lose themselves in another world. But with inflation/recession concerns at the forefront, many want to have these experiences without spending a lot of money, which means they may avoid traveling and purchasing tickets for More
