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Introducing the 2026 Simply Smarter Webinar Series

Save your seat for the best dialogue in food and beverage! We are proud to share our lineup of topics for 2026, and invite you to join in on the conversation. Take a seat at our table, where you’re always welcome. Register for the series today!

Note: Once you register for the 2026 Simply Smarter series, you do not need to register again until 2027. A monthly calendar invite will be included in your registration confirmation email.

Beverage Trends, Breakfast Trends, Consumer Insights, CPG & Retail, Food Trends, Foodservice, Ingredient Trends, Innovation, Menu Trends, Webinar

Register now for live F&B insights each month

Learn the latest trends in food and beverage, get exclusive looks at emerging key technology, dive into in-depth discussions of macro forces and what they mean for the industry, and much more. From annual and seasonality food trends to foodservice industry forecasts and chain intelligence, this is a series you don’t want to miss!

Scroll down to view the planned topics for each month.

2026 Simply Smarter Series Calendar*

SECOND THURSDAY OF EVERY MONTH

*All topics and content outlined in this calendar are subject to change.
If you can’t attend an episode live, complete the form to register and you will receive the recording link via email. Or, visit this page after each episode to watch on demand.

You only need to register once for the series calendar invite.

JANUARY 8

2025 Review + Looking Forward

This is your 2026 planning guide.  Get a break down of the economic landscape in 2025, insights into consumer spending habits, performance of major brands, and an industry outlook for 2026.

FEBRUARY 12

The Big Global Webinar

Pack your passport and uncover the top food and beverage trends across the globe, from LTOs in Europe to growing global cuisines to capitalize on in the U.S.

MARCH 12

State of the Menu

Discover standout menu items, emerging trends, and rising foods, flavors, and ingredients for the year ahead.

APRIL 9

Foodservice Segment Deep Dive

Audience vote! Datassential followers will have the opportunity to select the top segments they want to learn about most, from QSR to Supermarkets.

MAY 14

State of Pricing

Dive into the foodservice segments and item types most impacted by pricing and learn the long-term strategies and pitfalls to avoid.

JUNE 11

Datassential 500:
Top Restaurant Chains

Get a sneak peek at our Top Restaurant Chains report. Uncover trends, 2025 leaders, and growth insights!

JULY 9

Midyear Trends Event

Dive into insights on the latest industry trends you need to know and get a sneak peek at 2027 trends.

AUGUST 13

State of Value

Uncover how the introduction of combo/value meals has changed over time and dive deep into meal offerings by segment and top overall items by value ratings.

SEPTEMBER 10

Fall & Winter Trends

Dive into the foods, flavors, and beverages to have on the radar for the season, and uncover LTO trends and holiday insights.

OCTOBER 8

2027 Foodservice Forecast

Get industry projections on the year ahead and dive into market trends and insights on consumer habits and macroeconomics.

NOVEMBER 12

Menu Movers & Opportunities

Explore how menu items evolve from inception to ubiquity, highlighting key trends and opportunities.

DECEMBER 10

2027 Trends Event

Discover the must-know foods, flavors, and beverages for 2027 and beyond.

All topics and content outlined in this calendar are subject to change.
If you can’t attend an episode live, register using the form and you will receive the recording link via email following each episode.
Alternatively, visit this page to access on demand.