January 13, 2025

Curated by Shea: 2025 Outlook & Predictions

At Shea, we pride ourselves on staying on top of what’s happening in design and industry news so that you don’t have to – and we pull what’s smartest and most forward-thinking together to save you the time of sifting through it all. It helps us keep tabs on what’s fresh, inspiring, and happening in the world – and we make a few headlines of our own, too.

Restaurant Trends to Look Forward to in 2025, According to Chefs – Food & Wine

Food & Wine’s 2024 predictions included a rising focus on ranch, and if the Minnesota State Fair’s Deep-Fried Ranch was any proof of their foresight, you might want to take their 2025 predictions seriously. Some of the food/ingredients F&W says to watch for this year include African grains, desert caviar and turnips, and Chefs are predicting all kinds of trends to take hold, from early bird dining and lunch rushes to dynamic pricing, high-end to-go offerings and more.

How Will We Eat in 2025? 9 Predictions to Chew On. – The New York Times

The New York Times also has to-go orders on their mind for 2025. Only, NYT’s predictions are centered around the containers and the increase in their “thoughtful” artforms. They’re also predicting  grab-and-go foods, sauces and coffee will be in the spotlight for the year, but that “the hottest trend in hospitality will be … hospitality.”

In New York, Steakhouses Are Diversifying Menus to Stay Relevant – Eater New York

Buttermilk fried chicken, an extra-large beet and lion’s mane mushrooms – steakhouses are going beyond steak and serving something for everyone. If you’re looking for new ways to stay relevant night after night, take a cue from these featured New York steakhouses and consider diversifying  your menu.

The Restaurant Trends That Defined 2024 – Bon Appetit

While we’re always looking forward to what’s next, it’s important to reflect on the consumer and industry trends that have taken hold and adjust our strategies (and menu offerings) accordingly. According to Bon Appetit, 2024 was all about chef-cross overs and dining at the bar. And while alcohol consumption decreased, Caesar salad and smash burger consumption increased.

It Was Only “Mostly Dead” — The Office Is Making a Comeback – Work Design Magazine

Offices are making a making a comeback this year and Work Design Magazine not only outlines why but also how workplaces can support the trend. To sum it up: it’s all about the in-office experience. People are seeking collaboration-friendly environments and intentionally designed workspaces. And, as the publication reminds us, “the physical office remains the strongest way to celebrate your brand and culture.”

25 predictions for the retail industry in 2025 – National Retail Federation

Across the list of 25 retail predictions, a few themes kept popping up: technology, engagement and connection. Use of AI agents is expected to advance in 2025, along with increased integrated technology both instore and across digital platforms. 2024’s brick-and-mortar rebound is expected to continue positively trending as well, with consumers wanting in-person experiences, entertainment and connections. The National Retail Federation shares these predictions and more.

Six Hospitality Industry Trends to Watch in 2025 – Hotel Dive

Hotel investments will continue ramping up, and renovations will dominate the construction pipeline in 2025. “Bleisure” trips are here to stay, and so is sports tourism,  giving hotels big group travel programming opportunities. Hotel Dive digs into the industry’s outlook for the year and what other trends are on the rise.

A few recent Shea highlights:

Boketto, Starling and TAP IN named “Prettiest New Restaurants in the Twin Cities” by Star Tribune

Artful Living selects Eloise and Boketto as Best New Restaurants of 2024

Shea partners and friends fill MSP Mag’s 2024 Best Restaurants list

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