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Ways to Battle Rising Food Prices

Foodservice operators across the nation are feeling the pinch of rising food prices. According to a recent study by Foodservice Director, labor accounts for 41% of a college or university's budget, followed by 36% in food costs and 23% in other expenditures.¹

The good news is non-commercial operators don't need to pass those costs on to their customers. Here are some simple ways to battle rising food prices.

Buy local.
The vast majority of college campuses are buying locally these days,¹ and many have found that it can save on fuel costs. Approximately 88% of operators say they buy some local products.¹ Among those who do, the most popular items include produce at 77%, dairy at 70%, baked goods at 60% and meat/seafood at 49%.¹

Use an inventory system.²
Have real-time inventories done and run audit reports to see that food is being charged and dispensed honestly. Use the right size plates and bowls and pre-portion items when possible.

Kellogg's® individual box cereals are a great way to take control over your inventory. Kellogg's® Assortment Packs simplify category management by providing top-selling products in one convenient pack.

Find better pricing for back-of-house supplies.³
San Diego State University saved $25,000 on its annual supply of disposable gloves and 35% on trashcan liners annually by switching suppliers. The university continues to strive for $50,000 to $75,000 in savings from assertive purchasing to offset rising food costs.

Buy bulk cereal.
Cereal is one of the top three items ordered by students at breakfast and throughout the day.⁴ If students are unsatisfied with your cereal brands, they will eat elsewhere or choose alternative meal options, which translates into increased costs for your operation.⁵ Cereal is also a better value than traditional breakfast items that increase operating costs from 8% up to 47%.

With the right mix of Kellogg's bulk cereals, you can reduce operating costs and satisfy students' cravings for the brands they know and love from home. For more information, contact your Kellogg Sales Representative.