Crisp, craveable, and endlessly versatile — fries are always a number one hit during the summer. Reach guests wherever they snack with golden fry options that hold the heat, so diners get the most summer satisfaction.
In May 1997, the band Sugar Ray released a song that would top the charts for multiple weeks in a row, putting the group on the worldwide map. “Fly” would go on to become the song of the summer and one of the biggest hits of the 90s.
This summer, turn back the clock with customizable fry items that work equally well in-house or off-premise, meeting consumer demand for golden favorites and ultimately, driving profits. As summer hits, sing it with me, “I just wanna fry!”
Deliver the Goods
According to Circana CREST® Traffic Trends*, 60% of all restaurant visits are now away from the dining room, which means takeout and delivery are more important than ever. And more than half of consumers are ordering food from third-party apps at least twice a month — suggesting menu items that stand out quickly and hit the crave-worthy part of the brain are paramount.
With over a 120 million more servings compared to two years ago, fries are the fastest growing items for delivery. Let’s say on average, the food cost of fries is around $0.50. Charging $3.00, or more, a pop for every side order of fries is some eye-catching potential profit. Plus, load ‘em up, extend them across dayparts, or create fun flights that let diners dip however they choose — put your arms around the idea of optimizing fries at all meal times.
Coat the GOAT
You’ve established a plan for adding fries to your menus, now it’s time to select the product that will work best for your concept. In many cases, coating is key! Coated fries are more resistant to moisture than other varieties, helping you avoid a soggy situation and keeping fries crispy for longer. In fact, because of their ability to hold crispness and heat, coated fries have grown by almost a quarter, compared to last year.
Consider an option like Roma® Clear Coat Fries — gear up for summer with a Red, White, & Blue Dipping Platter that features spicy Sriracha ketchup, chipotle ranch, and Buffalo blue cheese. Which dipper dials up spice the best? Or pile on breakfast toppings like a fried egg, cheese, spicy sausage, and a housemade hot sauce to start summer mornings off right.
Coated fries are excellent for layering on the toppings that consumers just can’t resist. Load up Roma Seasoned Lattice Fries, designed to hold toppings, with classic pizza features like pepperoni, a mix of cheeses, mushrooms, onions, and peppers. There is no shortage of creative choices with these fries — such as Caribbean shrimp, Mexican street corn, or shepherd’s pie.
With a nod to Roma founder, Mr. Louis G. Piancone’s first deli in Bradley Beach, N.J., Roma Jersey Shore Fries are perfectly seasoned with a proprietary blend of wheat, starch, and spices that keep the fries hot for even longer. Drown these delights in a warm brown gravy with gooey mozzarella cheese or classic cheesesteak toppings.
The Heat Is On
Crafting your signature fry specials is only half the battle: Your food should still wow consumers even after transit. Create the best guest experience possible by packing fries that hold well in eco-friendly containers, designed to prevent heat loss.
First Mark® Recyclable Plastic Hinged Clear Containers are great fits for on-the-go items like fries. The polypropylene see-through design is preferred by many diners and features a snap-closed, leak-resistant fit with proper venting. They’ll be ready to chow down on fresh, crispy, golden fries as soon as they pop open the lid!
When summer arrives, I just wanna dunk fries near the water, or hang out with my favorite people, sharing fries at our local joint. This summer, I just wanna fry.
*Circana CREST Traffic Trends 52WKS Ending Mar 2024