Beware of this online review extortion scheme.

Could you ditch single-use plastic if it was against the law? It's time to pull up a chair for today's edition of The Prep.

On the menu:
💠 Federal single-use plastic mandates
💠 Strategies for increasing foot traffic
💠 The importance of delivery for patrons
💠 Criminals blackmail restaurant chain with one-star reviews

Federal phase-out of single-use plastic begins

The Biden-Harris Administration has announced an elimination plan for single-use plastic in federal establishments, signaling a commitment to rolling out similar programs in private sectors. Restaurant owners should prepare now for potential changes in supply chain logistics and increased costs as they transition to eco-friendly alternatives. (WWF)

Online review extortion hits restaurant owners

A chain of U.K. restaurants has been blackmailed by criminals demanding payment to prevent fake one-star reviews. Despite attempts to report these fraudulent reviews to Google and TripAdvisor, the chain has seen minimal success. This case serves as a warning to U.S. restaurant owners about the need for strong online reputation management to fend off similar extortion schemes. (BBC)

"DrinkBot" serves up boba, cold brew and smoothies

Botrista’s DrinkBot can craft a wide range of customized drinks in 20 seconds or less, including boba, cold-brew coffee, and smoothies, all without the need for staff training. The countertop device has raised $120 million in funding rounds, lead by Jollibee Foods. (Restaurant Business)

“There has to be that experience, that connection at a human level to really compel customers to spend a little bit more to go out to restaurants and feel like their experience was worth it.” - R.J. Hottovy

R.J. Hottovy, head of analytical research at Placer.ai, examines the decline in customer traffic at restaurants. He discusses insights from Placer.ai’s foot traffic data, highlighting a notable decrease in consumer spending, which indicates broader sales challenges. (A Deeper Dive)

💠 And the RAMMY Award winners are...

💠 Gen Z's must-have summer flavors

💠 Tender Greens files for Chapter 11

💠 CA to restaurants: Bake add-on fees into menu prices

55%

Amount of consumers who say food takeout or delivery is essential to their lifestyle. (Spot On)

What we're (re)watching: Season 3 of The Bear, to spot cameo appearances from celebrity chefs Daniel Boulud, Nobu Matsuhisa and many more. 

What we're reading: Nicola Twilley's book Frostbite, which uncovers refrigeration's transformative impact on our food system and prompts us to reconsider our reliance on this technology.

Plus: A look at a New York Times food critic's departure after 12 years, and what people are drinking at the Iowa State Fair (hint: it includes Hot Cheetos and pickles).

Thank you for reading The Prep.

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