What's Ahead in 2026?

For the food and beverage industry, 2025 was marked by tariffs, the wide adoption of AI, the “Make America Healthy Again” movement, and more – but what does 2026 have in store?

The Food Institute looks back at the defining forces of 2025 and explores what food retailers, manufacturers, and operators should be preparing for in 2026 and beyond.

Featuring expert insights from Casey Ferrell and Rachel Dalton of Kantar Retail IQ, Sunny Khamkar of MenuData, and Chris Campbell of The Food Institute, the discussion covers:

   • The latest food retail and foodservice data points

   • The influence of agentic/generative AI on the food industry

   • How retail media networks are likely to fare in a new environment

   • The new consumer value equation within a K-shaped economy

   • The continued rise of private label and challenger brands

   • The influence of GLP-1 drugs on the food consumer

   • The new importance of physical retail and experiences

Watch now to gain data-driven insights and strategic perspective on the trends shaping the year ahead.

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Sponsored by:

Kantar
Kantar is a data and evidence-based agency providing insights and recommendations to clients worldwide. We combine attitudinal and behavioral data with deep expertise and technology platforms.

Partnering with Kantar Retail IQ means uncovering new demand moments and staying up to speed with forces impacting channel dynamics, consumer behaviour, and mega-trends. With 250+ years of combined retail experience, our experts use reliable data to guide strategic planning and growth.

Find more here.

BMO
Food, Consumer and Agribusiness Group

Whether you’re a producer, processor, retailer or distributor every company throughout the food and beverage continuum needs a financial partner that understands the factors that impact their business. From emerging consumer trends and industry consolidation, to commodity fluctuations and economic cyclicality, BMO’s Food, Consumer, and Agribusiness Group understands the issues affecting your company and are dedicated to serving the entire food and beverage industry – from farm to consumer.

To learn more about how we can help, visit http://commercial.bmo.com/food.