News

Top 100: Menu Trends – Customization

Customization is number nine on our list of the 2014 Top 100 Fast Casual Movers and Shakers: Menu Trends.

December 18, 2014

Customization is number nine on our list of the 2014 Top 100 Fast Casual Movers and Shakers: Menu Trends.

We want what we want, how we want it and when we want it. In other words, fast casual patrons love customization. Playing to that fact was key to the success of many brands. Froyo giants such as Pinkberry, Yogurtland and Red Mango are seeing success because they give the customer the ability to control exactly what goes on their sweet treats without looking picky when placing their orders.

The idea behind customization is driving pizza as a fast casual concept as well. The fact that customers now can design their own pizzas opens a whole new pizza experience, said Randy Gier, CEO of Pie Five.

"You never have to share again," he said.

Customization doesn't just stop at the menu. Everything from the food to the music is controlled by consumers. Apps such as Google's Roqbot replace traditional background music at restaurants by allowing customers to vote for their favorite songs to be played while they are dining.