How a Bold Acquisition Will Transform the Future of Chain Restaurants
Acosta Group Subsidiary CORE Foodservice Partners with The Culinary Edge for Unparalleled Restaurant Creation, Menu Development, and Brand Innovation
A New Era of Innovation
In a strategic move that has captured the attention of the restaurant industry, CORE Foodservice, a titan in North American foodservice sales, announced its acquisition of The Culinary Edge (TCE) today. TCE, renowned as a trailblazer in food and beverage innovation, brings its vast array of creative capabilities under the expansive umbrella of CORE, a pivotal arm of the Acosta Group. This strategic alliance catapults CORE to the forefront of the fiercely competitive chain restaurant segment, positioning it as a powerhouse of culinary innovation.
Leveraging TCE's Unique Skill Set
Travis King, President of CORE Foodservice North America, highlighted the significance of the acquisition: "TCE’s leading-edge capabilities will be a huge asset to our roster of premier food and beverage clients." With a rich 20-year history of partnering with the brightest concepts, TCE will bring its expertise in restaurant creation, menu development, and operational design to CORE’s clients. It’s a match made in culinary heaven.
Meeting Chain Restaurants' Changing Needs
Graham Humphreys, CEO of TCE, emphasized the industry's evolving nature, stating, "We need a new kind of innovation agency with the scale and skill to navigate it." He sees the acquisition as transformational, enabling TCE to expand its services through CORE Foodservice’s culinary team and Acosta Group’s advanced analytics. By integrating TCE’s full suite of capabilities—restaurant creation, product and menu development, brand identity, and operational design—CORE Foodservice will deliver comprehensive solutions to chain restaurants.
A History of Innovation
Founded in 2002 by award-winning chef Aaron Noveshen, TCE has established a pioneering approach to food and beverage innovation. Today, its team of chefs, designers, brand planners, and food anthropologists work with national brands like Starbucks and First Watch. Noveshen is now focused on his role as founder and CEO of Starbird, a successful TCE-created restaurant brand.
Synergy and Strategy
CORE Foodservice and TCE will maintain their existing teams and operations. Humphreys will report to King, ensuring a seamless transition and alignment of vision. The acquisition not only fortifies CORE’s market position but also reaffirms Acosta Group’s commitment to investing in innovative businesses.
Brian Wynne, CEO of Acosta Group, emphasized this commitment: “TCE is leading the way in driving innovation and success at the top chain restaurants.” The acquisition deepens CORE’s understanding of the leading chains and enables their clients to refine their portfolios and penetrate the high-priority foodservice marketplace.
The Path Forward
For foodservice and restaurant industry professionals, the message is clear: the collaboration between CORE Foodservice and TCE represents a new standard in culinary innovation. Whether it's conceptualizing a new restaurant brand or revamping an existing menu, this partnership offers unprecedented strategic support.
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