Industry Trade Events help you connect with current and prospective customers and help you learn about new technologies or products that may influence the future of your business. Be sure to include the National Restaurant Association Show in your travel plans next year and you might find a product, trend or idea that will help your business become more profitable.

For example, some of the recent products and trends include:

Sustainability

More and more packaging vendors are attending trade events confirming that the restaurant industry is truly in favor of sustainable business practices. From eco-friendly take-out packaging to biodegradable containers, the owners are investing in the environment.

Dietary Needs

Health, Health, & Health - More than 22 million people are gluten free and restaurants are seeking ways to change their menus to include a selection of foods that will be enjoyed by everyone. Making people happy by providing healthy meals is what a restaurant truly is about.

Mobile Technology

Apps are being designed for ease of ordering, managing wait lists and taking payments. Mobile technology is assisting restaurants with making these activities easy and convenient for their customers. Mobile technology can be a great marketing tool as well -- there are some restaurants that are keeping a database of the mobile numbers, with permission, so that they can send out future promotions or special menu options.

If you are not attending industry trade events, you are missing out on some great information and best practices. Millions of people attend the major restaurant shows across the country so that they can be kept up to date on the latest trends that help grow their business.