Preferred Menu Datassential Selected as Preferred Menu Insights Partner for ICCA and GCIA
Datassential, the global leader in food and beverage intelligence, has officially partnered with the International Corporate Chefs Association (ICCA) and the Global Culinary Innovators Association (GCIA) to become their exclusive preferred menu insights partner. Preferred Menu This significant collaboration will provide ICCA and GCIA members with access to Datassential’s cutting-edge menu insights, trend forecasting, and data-driven analysis, enabling culinary professionals to make informed decisions that drive innovation and success in the foodservice industry.
This formalized partnership marks a milestone in the evolving landscape of restaurant menu development and culinary strategy. ICCA, the premier association dedicated to corporate chefs from the largest national restaurant chains and multi-unit operations, and GCIA, a network of multi-unit developers focused on enhancing every aspect of the dining experience, have long valued Datassential’s expertise in the food and beverage sector. Their decision to make Datassential the preferred menu insights partner underscores their commitment to equipping members with the best possible resources to stay ahead in an increasingly competitive market.
Since its founding in 2001, Datassential has built a reputation as the gold standard in foodservice data and insights. Trusted by over 90% of the largest food and beverage brands, the company has pioneered groundbreaking innovations in menu analytics. Preferred Menu These include AI-powered menu predictions, tracking and benchmarking of limited-time offers (LTOs), and extensive research into consumer food preferences. Datassential’s vast repository of historical trend data has been instrumental in identifying and fostering the early adoption of market-defining food trends, such as the rise of gochujang, salted caramel, turmeric, and kale.
By leveraging Datassential’s state-of-the-art analytical tools and predictive models, ICCA and GCIA members will gain unparalleled access to insights that can help shape menu development strategies. With consumer dining habits and food trends constantly evolving, having real-time, data-driven intelligence is essential for creating menus that resonate with today’s customers. Preferred Menu Through this partnership, chefs, menu developers, and culinary executives will be better equipped to anticipate shifts in the marketplace and respond with innovative offerings that meet changing consumer expectations.
Jim Emling, CEO of Datassential, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, emphasizing its potential to empower ICCA and GCIA members with industry-leading menu intelligence. “Datassential is thrilled to expand our collaboration with ICCA and GCIA to provide their members with the most advanced insights available,” said Emling. “Our mission has always been to illuminate the path to innovation and success for foodservice leaders. By formalizing this partnership, we’re ensuring that ICCA and GCIA members have the intelligence they need to stay ahead of industry trends and evolving consumer demands.”
One of the key benefits of this partnership is the exclusive access to Datassential’s predictive analytics, which will help ICCA and GCIA members refine their menu strategies with greater precision. Preferred Menu From identifying emerging global flavors to analyzing the performance of specific ingredients in different market segments, Datassential’s insights will enable culinary professionals to make data-backed decisions that enhance customer engagement and business performance.
Kevin Ryan, CEO and Executive Director of ICCA and GCIA, highlighted the importance of staying at the forefront of menu innovation in today’s dynamic foodservice landscape. “Our members are always looking for innovative ways to stay ahead in an ever-evolving industry,” said Ryan. “Partnering with Datassential formalizes what has already been a highly valuable relationship, giving our members access to industry-leading insights that inspire creativity, drive menu innovation, and help them deliver exceptional dining experiences.”
The role of data in menu development has become more critical than ever. Preferred Menu With shifting consumer preferences, dietary trends, and new food technologies influencing what people eat, restaurants and foodservice operators must continuously adapt. Datassential’s proprietary research methodologies, including menu trend analysis, flavor adoption cycles, and AI-driven consumer behavior models, will provide ICCA and GCIA members with the tools they need to make informed strategic decisions.
For example, Datassential’s AI-powered menu prediction tools will allow chefs and menu developers to assess the viability of new dishes before they are launched, reducing the risks associated with innovation. By examining historical performance data and consumer sentiment, ICCA and GCIA members can confidently introduce new menu items that are more likely to succeed. Additionally, Datassential’s benchmarking capabilities will enable foodservice professionals to evaluate their menu offerings against competitors, identifying areas for differentiation and growth.
Beyond menu insights, Datassential’s collaboration with ICCA and GCIA will also support professional development and industry education. Preferred Menu Through tailored reports, webinars, and interactive workshops, members will have opportunities to deepen their understanding of key market trends and best practices in menu development. This knowledge-sharing aspect of the partnership will foster a culture of innovation within the foodservice industry, equipping chefs and culinary leaders with the expertise needed to push the boundaries of what is possible in restaurant dining.
As the foodservice industry continues to evolve, partnerships like this one will play a crucial role in shaping its future. Preferred Menu By combining ICCA and GCIA’s extensive networks of culinary professionals with Datassential’s unparalleled menu intelligence, this collaboration is set to revolutionize how multi-unit operations and corporate chefs approach menu development and culinary innovation.
The restaurant industry is facing unprecedented challenges, from shifting consumer expectations to supply chain disruptions and economic pressures. In this environment, data-driven decision-making is no longer optional—it is a necessity. Datassential’s insights will enable ICCA and GCIA members to navigate these challenges with confidence, ensuring that their menus remain relevant, compelling, and profitable.
Looking ahead, this partnership promises to deliver long-term value to the entire foodservice ecosystem. Whether by helping restaurants identify the next big food trend, optimize menu pricing strategies, or enhance guest experiences, the collaboration between Datassential, ICCA, and GCIA is poised to drive significant impact across the industry.
Ultimately, the success of any restaurant hinges on its ability to understand and cater to its customers. With Datassential’s deep expertise in food and beverage intelligence now fully integrated into the ICCA and GCIA networks, members will have the insights they need to make smarter, more strategic decisions—paving the way for a more innovative and resilient foodservice industry.
