Alerts & What’s Trending

• Optimize Contract Management with Custom Solutions from Consolidated Concepts
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Produce

Hurricane Helene, unfavorable weather patterns in the U.S., Mexico, and Guatemala, and insect pressure in California are affecting multiple commodities. These issues have led to continued higher market prices and lower overall yields.

Grains

Soybean oil futures traded higher with reports of very tight stocks with good biofuel demand. Canola has moved higher with speculative trading. Palm continues to move higher and is pressuring soybean oil. Olive oil has flattened as oil stocks are poor and demand has increased with the lower market.

Dairy

Shell egg markets are down this week. California and Northwest markets are down. After a 55% drop over the past four weeks, breaking stock values appear to have hit a point of stabilization. The Block is decreasing & Barrel are increasing. Barrel hit a record high and the spread between barrel and Block has widened. Butter is down.

Beef

Packers reduced harvest late last week. Ribs continue to trade slightly higher supported by holiday bookings. In the loin complex, Strips appear to have found a floor, while tenderloins are trading higher. The chuck and round complexes are encountering resistance. Grinds continue to offer opportunity to buyers, although reduced harvest could limit availability.

Pork

Butts both Bone-in and boneless are steady. Bone-in loins were softer due to increased supply on the spot market. Light trade activity is noted again in St. Louis and back ribs so called sideways, whereas spareribs are stead. Bellies are settling, supply and demand is mixed but trading in established price levels. Trim is steady to higher for supply.

Poultry

Bigger birds, better hatchability, and larger egg sets are allowing extra supply on the market, especially in the boneless market. Tenders and breasts are seeing increased supply on all sizes. Wings are seeing extra availability on all sizes. Dark meat demand remains very good. Whole birds are mostly balanced.

Seafood

The frozen tilapia market is highly unsettled with the news of a strong typhoon hitting several areas in both China and Vietnam. Prices of imported shrimp are also increasing due to import cost increases. Octopus market continues to firm up due to increased demand in Europe and the U.S. and decreased raw material availability.

 

Streamline your multi-unit restaurant operations with custom contracts!

Managing contracts across multiple restaurant locations can be a daunting task, with the risk of missing cost-saving opportunities hidden in the fine print. At Consolidated Concepts, we specialize in turning this complex process into a competitive advantage for your business.

Why Custom Contracts Matter for Multi-Unit Operators

Custom contracts are not just legal agreements—they’re tailored solutions that address the unique needs of your restaurant operation. Whether you’re negotiating pricing, managing vendor relationships, or streamlining your supply chain, custom contracts play a pivotal role in driving cost efficiency and operational success across all your units.

Key Benefits of Custom Contracts:

• Tailored Efficiency: Contracts meet your specific operational needs, enhancing workflow.
• Cost Savings: Get the best terms from vendors to avoid unnecessary expenses.
• Standardized Service: Ensure consistency across all locations.
• Compliance & Risk Mitigation: Minimize legal risks and billing discrepancies.

 

 

How Consolidated Concepts Delivers Custom Contract Solutions

Managing multi-unit operations is no easy feat, but with Consolidated Concepts, you gain access to customized solutions designed to streamline your contract management process. From navigating complex pricing structures to ensuring compliance with every vendor agreement, we provide the resources and expertise to turn your contracts into cost-saving opportunities. Here’s how we can help:

Distribution Agreements: Streamline Your Supply Chain

Distribution agreements are the foundation of an efficient supply chain. With Consolidated Concepts, you gain expert support in building Request for Proposals (RFPs) and negotiating agreements that meet your operational needs. Our team leverages relationships with distributors to ensure you receive the best pricing, reliable service, and on-time delivery.

Challenges We Solve:

• Complex Pricing Structures: We align agreements with your sales forecasts to simplify discounts, rebates, and minimum orders.
• Vendor Selection: We help you choose reliable vendors that meet demand, quality, and competitive pricing.
• Supply Chain Optimization: Our tools streamline inventory, transport, and delivery to lower costs.

Product Contracts: The Right Spec at the Right Price

Finding the right product specifications at the best price can be overwhelming. Our sourcing experts work closely with you to identify the optimal products and partners, securing contracts that provide both high quality and cost savings. We prioritize your specific needs to ensure you’re getting the best value for your multi-unit operations.

Contract Compliance & Auditing: Never Miss an Overcharge

Once your contracts are in place, we leverage AI-powered systems to track every invoice and detect overcharges. Our auditing process ensures you never miss a credit owed and helps maximize cost recovery.

Our Compliance Solutions

• Automated Compliance Tracking: With advanced technology, we monitor contract terms and alert you to discrepancies in real time.
• Detailed Audits: Our team identifies errors and recovers overcharges that can significantly impact your bottom line.
• Proactive Risk Mitigation: By ensuring contracts are fully compliant, we help you avoid costly disputes and legal risks.

The Consolidated Concepts Advantage

Our team doesn’t just negotiate contracts—we transform them into growth tools for your business. With the right distribution agreements, product contracts, and comprehensive auditing, Consolidated Concepts helps multi-unit operators streamline operations, save money, and focus on what matters most: delivering exceptional dining experiences.

Take the Next Step with Consolidated Concepts

Change the way you manage contracts by partnering with us. We provide the technology, expertise, and supplier relationships needed to relieve your contract management burden and help your restaurant thrive. Unlock cost savings and streamline your operations with tailored solutions from Consolidated Concepts. Fill out the form below to get started on optimizing your custom contracts today!

 

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Produce

Tropical storm Francine, unfavorable weather patterns in the U.S., Mexico, and Guatemala, and insect pressure in California are affecting multiple commodities. These issues have led to continued higher market prices and lower overall yields. The weather in the Salinas Valley is gradually becoming cooler. Recent warm rains have created conditions conducive to mildew, prompting growers to implement all possible mitigation strategies.

Grains

Soybean oil futures moved lower approximately 2% last week as stocks are improving. Helping push soybean oil down is the heavy crushing currently taking place for meal. However, very dry weather in Ohio and drought in South America has traders concerned, which is supporting soybean oil. Canola is expected to move lower.

Dairy

Shell egg markets are down this week. California and Northwest markets are down. The Block & Barrel are increasing. CME spot cheese prices rallied up to new 12-month highs this week. Butter is flat.

Beef

Packers are in a volume driven market. Ribs and tenders continue to trade steady while upper 2/3 graded product continues to support most of the demand. In the loin complex, Ch & Sel grade continue to struggle, while upper 2/3 seems to have found a floor for now. The chuck and round complexes are finding resistance. Grinds continue to trade lower as demand continues to lessen even more.

Pork

Butts both Bone-in and boneless materials are supported. Loins are steady in the bone-in sector, while boneless are mixed due to some export demand. Ribs are mixed across types. Bellies remain unsettled as supply and demand is mixed. Trim markets are sideways and down a decent amount on the week.

Poultry

Wings demand has begun to pick up as we enter football season butt here is availability. Tenders and breasts are seeing increased supply. Birds are getting bigger with cooler weather and more chickens are being hatched. Dark meat demand remains very good. Whole birds are mostly even.

Seafood

The frozen tilapia market is highly unsettled with the news of a strong typhoon hitting several areas in both China and Vietnam. Prices of imported shrimp are also increasing due to import cost increases. Octopus market continues to firm up due to increased demand in Europe and the U.S. and decreased raw material availability.

 

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Produce

Tropical storm Francine and adverse weather conditions in the U.S., Mexico, and Guatemala are impacting various commodities. This situation is expected to result in prolonged elevated market prices and possible supply shortages. The temperatures in the Salinas Valley are beginning to drop.

Grains

Soybean oil futures finished the week slightly down vs. the previous week. The weaker energy markets and some technical data appear to be the driving reasons for the decline. Stats Canada released its data for Canola, and the expected yield has increased for seed. Palm oil moved lower last week after several weeks of higher moves.

Dairy

Shell egg markets are down this week. California and Northwest markets are down. The Block & Barrel are increasing. U.S. cheese exports in July were up 10.1% YoY. Butter is down, after hitting new record highs in the middle of last week, EEX butter futures pulled back a bit.

Beef

PRIME and upper 2/3rd graded product is limited. Ribs and tenders continue to hold pricing relatively steady to higher. As for the loin complex, struggles continue in the Ch and Sel arenas and buyers are hesitant to commit. The chuck and round complexes continue to perform well overall. Grinds continue to struggle to clean up inventories due to underwhelming demand.

Pork

Butts both Bone-in and boneless materials are supported, with increased pulled pork interest. Loins are steady in the bone–in sector, while boneless are mixed due to some export demand. Ribs are mixed across types. Bellies remain unsettled as supply and demand is mixed. Trim markets 72’s are steady and 42’s have weaker supply.

Poultry

Wings demand has begun to pick up as we enter football season but there is availability. Tenders continue to be mostly steady. Jumbo breasts are seeing some extra availability. Medium and small breasts continue to stay steady. Dark meat demand remains very good. Whole birds are mostly balanced.

Seafood

Commodity groundfish market continuing to firm up due to raw material availability. Prices of imported shrimp are also increasing due to import cost increases that are affecting all items coming into the country in containers. Container availability is causing the most recent incremental increase.

 

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Produce

Unfavorable weather patterns across the U.S., Mexico, and Guatemala are affecting multiple commodities, leading to anticipated sustained high market prices and potential supply shortages. The Salinas Valley is experiencing warmer weather than typical for this time of year.

Grains

Soybean oil futures moved higher last week. The move looked to be technical in nature, and we saw traders rolling their September futures to October futures. The Canadian rail strike seems to be at an end and weather is good on the Canadian prairies for the Canola crop. Palm oil moved higher with lower palm production.

Dairy

Shell egg markets are down this week except for Mediums are up. The Block is increasing & Barrel are decreasing. With U.S. cheese stocks down significantly YoY and cheese prices in Europe spiking, the risk is to the upside for CME cheese. Butter is up with Q3/Q4 stocks/use ratios for Europe are record tight.

Beef

Early reports show sales were less than expected as poor weather conditions impacted holiday sales. Limited harvest have led to limited supply on thin meats, PRIME, and upper 2/3rd graded cattle. Ribs and tenders are limited. The chuck and round complexes continue to perform well. Grinds are still trading slightly lower as demand is underwhelming.

Pork

Butts both Bone–in and boneless materials are supported, with increased export interest. Loins are steady in the bone–in sector, while boneless are mixed due to some export demand. Ribs are mixed across types. Spareribs are unsettled, St. Louis are steady & Back ribs are steady due to light trade activity. Bellies are unsettled as supply and demand is mixed. Trim markets have been steady.

Poultry

Wings demand has begun to pick up as we enter football season but there is availability. Tenders continue to be mostly steady. Jumbo and medium breasts are seeing increased demand as further processors continue to pull heavy. Small breasts continue to stay steady. Dark meat demand remains very good. Whole birds are mostly balanced.

Seafood

Commodity groundfish market continuing to firm up due to raw material availability. Prices of imported shrimp are also increasing due to import cost increases that are affecting all items coming into the country in containers. Container availability is causing the most recent incremental increase.

 

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Produce

Tropical Storm Debby and unfavorable weather conditions in Mexico and Guatemala are impacting various commodities, resulting in expected prolonged elevated market prices and possible supply shortages. From the Salinas Valley, we are observing consistent supplies and quality across most products, although there are some exceptions.

Grains

Soybean oil futures moved a little higher last week. Increased biodiesel demand, higher energy costs, and some tightness in soybean oil supply (mostly due to higher biodiesel demand). The Canadian rail strike had begun, was ended, began again, and ended, so for now, Canola is flowing.

Dairy

Shell egg markets are up this week. California and Northwest markets are down except for Medium which is up. The strong demand from both retail and foodservice outlets emphasizes the widespread need for eggs across the market. The Block & Barrel are increasing. EU cheese/ whey looks undervalued relative to butter/SMP.

Beef

Heading into a holiday, supply levels are ample. Ribs and tenders are attracting interest, leading to packers raising or holding price offerings. Loin and top sirloin, pricing continues to be softer. The chuck and round complexes continue to perform well. Grinds continue limited and packers have moved pricing slightly higher.

Pork

Butts are steady with moderate pulled pork demand. Bone-in and boneless materials have seen a bit of support for Labor Day. Loins are steady–domestic buying has slowed, however export channels are strong. Ribs are mostly steady. A softer tone was present in bellies this week as supply is up and bacon processing has slowed down. Trim markets have softened, supply is more steady.

Poultry

Wings demand has begun to pick up as we near football season. Tenders continue to be mostly steady. Jumbo and medium breasts are seeing increased demand as further processors continue to pull heavy. Small breasts continue to stay steady. Dark meat demand remains very good. Whole birds are mostly balanced.

Seafood

Shrimp prices are gaining strength; the Alaska Gold King Crab season has kicked off while the Red King Crab season remains closed. Lakefish is now transitioning to a mix of fresh and refreshed products available due to warming trends in the lakes.

 

The restaurant industry is in a perfect storm. Soaring food costs, a relentless hunt for talent, and customers demanding more for less have created a challenging environment for multi-unit operators. But what if you had a partner ready to help you navigate all of this and emerge stronger than ever? 

At Consolidated Concepts, we’re your all-in-one partner, tackling your supply chain, procurement, and operational hurdles head on. 

Here are six reasons you should partner with Consolidated Concepts: 

Instant Savings with Rebates and Deviations

Unlock a world of savings with our Consolidated Concepts rebates and deviations. Gain instant access to over 175,000 rebated line items and discounted prices from over 350 leading manufacturers, including: 

• Tyson
• Unilever
• Georgia Pacific
• Idahoan
• And many more!

Our rebate program is designed to put more money back in your pocket without disrupting your operations. Simply continue purchasing your favorite products and let us handle the rest. Our team of experts will identify and process rebates on your behalf, maximizing savings and streamlining your finances.  

Insight into Your Business with Data and Technology

With 90% of restaurant operators reporting more value-conscious customers, data-driven decisions are no longer a luxury – they’re a necessity. Our cutting edge spend management technology provides real-time insights into your purchasing behavior, empowering you to make informed decisions that drive profitability. 

• Visualize your spending patterns to identify cost-saving opportunities and optimize operations. Our dashboards turn raw data into actionable strategies for growth and efficiency.
• Unlock the power of your data. Let us help you turn raw numbers into actionable strategies that drive growth and success.  

Click here to learn how to turn your data into profits with Consolidated Concepts!

Streamlined Supply Chain Management

With 54% of operators experiencing shortages or delays, a resilient supply chain is essential for business survival. At Consolidated Concepts, we offer comprehensive supply chain management solutions designed to safeguard your operations and drive growth. 

Our expert team provides end-to-end supply chain management, including: 

• Contract Management 
• Produce Management 
• Sourcing 

By leveraging our expertise and advanced technology, you can streamline your operations, reduce costs, and ensure a consistent product supply. Focus on your core business while we handle the rest. Our dedicated team will free up your resources and minimize the impact of supply chain disruptions.

Expert Produce Management

Sourcing, pricing, and quality control can be overwhelming when it comes to produce management. At Consolidated Concepts we offer a powerhouse produce management program designed to deliver exceptional quality, consistent pricing, and complete traceability.  

Our produce management team leverages industry expertise and strong grower relationships to secure the best possible fresh solutions at competitive prices. Experience the difference having a dedicated produce partner can make. Our managed produce program provides: 

• Competitive Pricing 
• Food Safety and Traceability 
• Expert Support  

Custom Contracts

Generic contracts often leave money on the table. We believe in tailored solutions that drive maximum value.  

Our contract experts negotiate customized agreements that align with your unique needs. From strategic RFPs to securing optimal pricing and terms, we do it all for you. Our advanced contract management technology ensures contract compliance and automatically identifies overcharges, maximizing your savings and protecting your bottom line.  

Key benefits include: 

• Strategic Sourcing 
• Expert Negotiation 
• Contract Compliance 

Experience the difference expert negotiation can make. Our team leverages deep industry knowledge and strong supplier relationships to achieve exceptional results. Let us handle the complexities of contract management, so you can focus on running your business. 

Indirect Spend Savings

Indirect expenses can quickly erode your bottom line. As a Consolidated Concepts member, you get access to hundreds of indirect spend programs that help you boost your profitability. These programs cover many areas of your operation, such as: 

• Unforms 
• Cable TV  
• Exterminators 
• Credit Card Processing 
• Menu Technology 
• And more!  

 

With average food costs up more than 20% and a staggering 38% of operators reporting profitability struggles in 2023, it’s clear that traditional approaches are no longer enough. 

Consolidated Concepts is your partner to overcome these obstacles. By joining Consolidated Concepts, you benefit from: 

• Instant Savings 
• Data-Driven Insights 
• Robust Supply Chain 
• Expert Product Management 
• Tailored Contracts 
• Indirect Spend Savings

Ready to take control of your business? Fill out the form below and join Consolidated Concepts today! 

 

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Produce

Tropical Storm Debby and adverse weather conditions in Mexico and Guatemala are affecting multiple commodities, leading to anticipated extended high market prices and potential supply shortages. The weather conditions in Salinas are favorable, and although a few commodities are experiencing challenges, we are observing consistent supplies and quality.

Grains

Soybean oil futures continued lower last week. US beans and South American beans are parity for pricing, so they are very competitive. Despite the much lower price, soybean oil stocks are tight as biodiesel producers are buying it up. Canada is about to have a rail strike causing problems for Canola. Palm oil has remained flat.

Dairy

Shell egg markets are up this week. California and Northwest markets are up. The Block & Barrel are increasing. Butter is up.

Beef

The market continues to be uneventful. Middle meat inventories continue to be mixed, w/ PRIME & upper 2/3 limited by smaller harvest, while choice grade continues to build. The chuck and round complexes continue to perform well overall. Inside round are starting to slow. Grinds continue steady and packers look toward Labor Day demand for a lift at the end of month.

Pork

Butts market is unsettled. Bone-in and boneless materials are expected to continue to trade at current levels. Loins are steady. Ribs are down again this week, supply is static, and demand continues to be soft post July. Bellies are unsettled. Trim softened up on the week after the last few weeks of rising markets- 42’s are up, 72’s are down on the week.

Poultry

Wings demand has begun to pick up as we near football season. Tenders continue to be mostly steady. Jumbo breasts are seeing increased demand as further processors continue to pull heavy. Small breasts continue to stay steady. Dark meat demand remains very good. Whole birds are mostly balanced.

Seafood

Shrimp prices are gaining strength; the Alaska Gold King Crab season has kicked off while the Red King Crab season remains closed. Lakefish is now transitioning to a mix of fresh and refreshed products available due to warming trends in the lakes.

 

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Produce

Tropical Storm Debby and unfavorable weather conditions in Mexico and Guatemala are impacting various commodities, resulting in expected prolonged high market prices and possible supply shortages. The temperatures in Salinas are finally beginning to drop, which is aiding in the moderation of growth rates. The growers have managed the heat effectively, and we have navigated the heat wave with minimal significant problems.

Grains

The soybean oil market finished higher last Friday, but the weekly average was down about 2%. The soybean market fell as the upcoming WASDE report is expected to report thirty-five million more bushels. Canola moved higher, likely due to the possible Canadian rail strike. Palm was flat for the week.

Dairy

Shell egg markets are up this week. California and Northwest markets are up except Mediums are down. The Block is increasing & Barrel decreasing. Butter is flat.

Beef

The market has been impacted by back–to–school expenses and continued consumer budget restraints for entertainment. Middle meats inventories continue in just enough supply to keep price peaks & valleys from establishing. The chuck and round complexes continue to perform well overall. Grinds continue steady and packers look toward Labor Day.

Pork

Butts market continue to decline. Bone–in and boneless materials have seen a bit of support for Labor Day. Loins are sideways as retail demand is up. Ribs are down again this week, supply is static, and demand continues to be soft post July. Bellies are on the rise. Trim shows limited trade activity as availability is described as tight on the spot market.

Poultry

Wings have excess supply in the up on the open market for now. Tenders continue to be mostly steady. Jumbo breasts are seeing increased demand as further processors a bolstered demand. Medium and small breasts have steadied. Dark meat demand remains very good. Whole birds are mostly balanced.

Seafood

As markets have firmed up on groundfish items. The prices of imported, farm-raised, white, and black tiger shrimp are gaining strength and firming depending upon sizes due to rising shipping costs, delays in shipment arrivals, and shortages of shipping containers to load the products.

 

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Produce

Tropical Storm Debby and adverse weather conditions in Mexico and Guatemala continue to affect several commodities, leading to anticipated extended periods of elevated market prices and potential supply shortages.

Grains

The soybean oil market continued to move downward last week with pressure from fund selling, lower crude oil, much lower equities, and a good soybean crop outlook. Canola moved lower with pressure from the soybean oil market. Palm oil was flat even with the much lower soy and Canola. Palm’s balance sheet is looking good.

Dairy

Shell egg markets are up this week. California and Northwest markets are up. On Saturday, July 27th Hickman’s Family Farms production facility in Tonopah, Arizona had one of their production barns destroyed and two others damaged by fire. The Block is decreasing & Barrel are increasing. Butter is up.

Beef

The beef market continues weighed down by middle meats, especially on Choice and Select cuts. Limited harvest are allowing thin meats to creep higher. The chuck and round complexes found balance overall; standouts are chuck rolls and inside rounds, as need for retail value cuts along w/ lean grind material bolstered demand. Grinds continued steady and look to gain traction.

Pork

Butts market continue to decline but only slightly. Bone-in and boneless materials have seen a bit of support for Labor Day. Loins are steady. Ribs supply is steady, and demand continues to be soft post July. Bellies are on the rise. Trim shows limited trade activity as availability is described as tight on the spot market, so continue to climb.

Poultry

Wings have excess supply in the up on the open market for now. Tenders continue to be mostly steady. Jumbo breasts are seeing increased demand as further processors a bolstered demand. Medium and small breasts have steadied. Dark meat demand remains very good. Whole birds are mostly balanced.

Seafood

As markets have firmed up on groundfish items. The prices of imported, farm-raised, white, and black tiger shrimp are gaining strength and firming depending upon sizes due to rising shipping costs, delays in shipment arrivals, and shortages of shipping containers to load the products.