Improve profitability during growth by taking control of your costs, streamlining operations, and setting your brand up for long-term success.

Growth feels good. New locations, more staff, higher visibility. But the bigger you get, the easier it is for profit margins to slip through the cracks. 

Emerging restaurant brands face a tricky challenge: how do you stay profitable when everything is moving fast? There are more orders to manage, more vendors to track, and more money going out the door. 

Good news, you can grow and stay profitable at the same time. You just need the right approach. 

Here are five real ways to protect your bottom line during a growth phase.

1. Get Consistent With Your Purchasing

Every location doing its own thing? That gets expensive—fast. 

One of the simplest ways to gain control is to bring your purchasing under one roof. Create systems that help your team buy smarter and stay on track. 

Think about: 

• Working with fewer vendors who offer better pricing 
• Using contracts that lock in your costs 
• Adding tools that show you what each location is spending 

You don’t need to micromanage everything. You just need to set up smart guidelines and stick to them.

2. Watch Out for Indirect Spend

When most people think about restaurant costs, they focus on food. But non-food expenses can sneak up on you. 

Things like cleaning supplies, uniforms, and packaging eat into your margins. And when each unit orders on their own, prices can vary—and budgets can get messy. 

Here’s what helps: 

• Track what you’re spending on indirect items 
• Find savings in places you may have overlooked 
• Stick with vendors that offer programs for growing brands 

It’s not about cutting corners. It’s about spending smarter.

3. Tighten Up the Supply Chain

The faster you grow, the more moving pieces you need to manage. If your supply chain is not solid, problems start to stack up. 

To avoid delays, shortages, or missed deliveries, now’s the time to: 

• Look closely at your distribution model 
• Explore regional programs that keep your shelves stocked 
• Build a backup plan in case something falls through 

You don’t need to overhaul everything. Small improvements in logistics can make a big difference in day-to-day operations.

4. Use Your Data

Data is not just for big brands. It is a tool every growing restaurant should use. 

Start simple. Know what you are spending. Track what you are using. Pay attention to patterns. 

This helps you: 

• Spot areas where you are overpaying
• Catch when you’re off contract
• Make better decisions about pricing and products 

Data tells a story. The more you listen, the easier it is to protect your margins.

5. Get Help From People Who’ve Done It Before

Running a restaurant is hard. Scaling one is even harder. That’s why having experienced partners matters. 

Work with people who understand restaurant growth—especially those who know the ins and outs of supply chains, sourcing, and vendor management. 

With the right team behind you, you can: 

• Plan for the future with more confidence
• Cut costs without cutting quality
• Focus on your guests instead of spreadsheets 

It’s not about giving up control. It’s about gaining support where you need it most. 

Growing your restaurant brand should feel exciting—not overwhelming. With better purchasing, tighter controls, and the right partners, you can scale your business while keeping profitability front and center. 

Click here to join Consolidated Concepts today and find out how we help emerging restaurant concepts reduce costs, manage vendors, and grow smarter. 

Commodity forecasting highlights from CommodityONE

This snapshot report is released every week. To learn more about the FULL report, click here. 

Designed to support purchasing and forecasting teams in managing price risks, CommodityONE provides powerful tools like commodity forecasting and item-specific food cost modeling to help you plan smarter and maximize profitability. Learn how you can receive even more in-depth insights delivered daily from CommodityONE to elevate your strategy.

Learn More

Expert insights curated weekly.

Powered by CommodityONE

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Produce

Avocados dropped to a new YTD low ($45/carton), but supply risks may trigger a reversal soon. Iceberg lettuce and roma tomatoes posted weekly gains, while potatoes continued their upward climb.

Outlook: Produce markets remain stable but are entering a period of potential volatility. Expect seasonal increases in lettuce and tomatoes by September, and consider locking in pricing where possible.

Grains

Grain markets were relatively inactive, except for soybeans, which rebounded nearly 3% w/w after a bullish June crush report and renewed biofuel demand speculation.

Outlook: Soybeans remain susceptible to further price volatility due to policy speculation and export dynamics. Broader grain pricing should remain steady for the near term.

Dairy

Dairy prices edged down across the board. Butter dropped to $2.53/lb, while block and barrel cheese slipped by $0.05 and $0.06 respectively. Tight milk supplies in heat-impacted regions are prompting more spot market activity.

Outlook: Marginal price dips are likely to continue, though supply constraints could lead to regional cost variability. Monitor cream and milk inputs for potential disruption in dairy-heavy concepts.

Beef

Despite a 2% rise in live cattle futures, both choice and select beef cutouts declined. High-value primals like ribeyes saw modest gains, while loins, rounds, and chucks trended lower. Trim was mixed—50% lean trim fell, while 90% lean edged up.

Outlook: With subprimal values sliding and packer margins tightening, expect harvest reductions that could stabilize or slightly lift cattle prices. Multi-unit operators should plan for softer beef pricing but tighter supply control in the short term.

Pork

Hog futures declined, but the pork cutout rose 2% on the strength of hams, loins, and bellies. Butts and ribs weakened, and pork butt exports slowed considerably. Trim values continued upward momentum.

Outlook: Pricing will remain mixed. Hams are expected to firm up ahead of holiday demand, but other cuts may face downward pressure. Operators should monitor tariff volatility and shifting export demand closely.

Poultry

USDA harvest numbers held steady year-over-year, but most wholesale chicken prices declined last week. Boneless/skinless breasts fell to $1.89/lb and are now down 28% month-over-month. Wings rose for the seventh consecutive week to $1.54/lb, while thigh meat prices were mixed. Egg prices increased 4% w/w.

Outlook: A seasonal slowdown and new tariff headwinds could keep poultry prices soft through early fall. White meat remains a strong value-driven menu anchor across units.

Seafood

Cod and tilapia are both trending lower following months of inflated pricing. Cod dropped over 10% month-over-month, while tilapia is nearing seasonal averages.

Outlook: Expect additional softening in cod pricing before it stabilizes. These downward shifts may create smart substitution opportunities across protein categories for cost-effective LTOs or menu innovation.

Need Help Managing Market Volatility?

Consolidated Concepts offers custom contract support, commodity tracking, and supply chain solutions to help operators thrive—no matter the market conditions. Reach out to see how we can help your business stay ahead of pricing swings and supply uncertainty.

Want the full report in your inbox everyday?

Submit the short form to learn how to get the FULL CommodityONE report delivered DAILY to your inbox: 

CommodityONE offers a diversity in format and provides definitive content that presents the trends and forecasts that align with what’s happening in the industry. Sign up for CommodityONE today to unlock the most in-depth foodservice commodities report on the market.

Expert insights curated weekly.

Powered by CommodityONE

Commodity forecasting highlights from CommodityONE

This snapshot report is released every week. To learn more about the FULL report, click here. 

Designed to support purchasing and forecasting teams in managing price risks, CommodityONE provides powerful tools like commodity forecasting and item-specific food cost modeling to help you plan smarter and maximize profitability. Learn how you can receive even more in-depth insights delivered daily from CommodityONE to elevate your strategy.

Learn More

Expert insights curated weekly.

Powered by CommodityONE

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Produce

Iceberg lettuce prices have surged, nearly tripling since mid-June due to tightening supplies—an unusual move for this time of year. Potato prices are also climbing in advance of the new crop, with 60- and 70-count Idaho varieties up nearly 40% m/m.

Outlook: Expect produce markets to remain highly volatile through the fall, particularly for lettuce and potatoes. Multi-unit operators should evaluate alternative SKUs and prep solutions to maintain consistency and margins.

Grains

Corn prices continued to fall last week, despite strong U.S. export performance. Optimism around new trade deals didn’t materialize, and expectations for record-breaking crops in both the U.S. and Brazil continue to weigh heavily on the market.

Outlook: The current supply outlook will likely keep grain prices suppressed in the near term. Strategic procurement and hedging discussions may be beneficial heading into Q3.

Dairy

Butter and cheese prices were mostly flat last week. Domestic demand remains steady, though summer heat is tightening milk supply in some regions, pushing cheesemakers to secure additional volumes via the spot market.

Outlook: The dairy market remains steady but sensitive to regional production shifts. Operators should watch for any disruptions that could impact pricing or availability, especially in cheese-heavy menu categories.

Beef

Both choice and select cutouts declined, with mixed movement across primals—striploins fell while tenderloins and shortloins edged higher. Ground beef eased slightly, and 50% trim reached a new all-time high. Volatility remains across middle meats and trimmings.

Outlook: Despite a modest recovery in live cattle, cutout values remain under pressure. Operators should expect softer beef pricing in the short term as packers manage supply and seasonal demand shifts normalize.

Pork

The pork cutout rebounded 3% after the previous week’s sharp drop, led by strong belly and ham markets. Loins and tenderloins held steady, but pork butts and ribs weakened, with export sales for butts falling below expectations.

Outlook: Pork prices are likely to trend downward as global trade uncertainty and tariff speculation contribute to instability. Monitor primals closely for spot buying opportunities.

Poultry

Boneless skinless breast prices dropped sharply last week, now down 30% month-over-month, while wings rose slightly but remain well below last year’s levels. Thigh meat and drumsticks saw little movement, though boneless thigh meat is still up significantly year-over-year. Turkey prices rose, with breasts up 12% and whole birds up 6%.

Outlook: Operators should prepare for a typical seasonal dip in chicken prices, but increased harvest volumes and potential tariff challenges could accelerate the decline. White meat demand is expected to remain resilient due to its cost-effectiveness.

Seafood

Seafood prices dropped across key categories last month, with frozen tilapia down 12%. The decline followed months of inflated pricing and now places tilapia below anticipated late-summer levels. A lack of seasonal import volume increases is also shaping this trend.

Outlook: As import levels normalize, prices are expected to stabilize. Consider leveraging current softness in pricing for upcoming LTOs or protein swaps on core items.

Need Help Managing Market Volatility?

Consolidated Concepts offers custom contract support, commodity tracking, and supply chain solutions to help operators thrive—no matter the market conditions. Reach out to see how we can help your business stay ahead of pricing swings and supply uncertainty.

Want the full report in your inbox everyday?

Submit the short form to learn how to get the FULL CommodityONE report delivered DAILY to your inbox: 

CommodityONE offers a diversity in format and provides definitive content that presents the trends and forecasts that align with what’s happening in the industry. Sign up for CommodityONE today to unlock the most in-depth foodservice commodities report on the market.

Expert insights curated weekly.

Powered by CommodityONE

Commodity forecasting highlights from CommodityONE

This snapshot report is released every week. To learn more about the FULL report, click here. 

Designed to support purchasing and forecasting teams in managing price risks, CommodityONE provides powerful tools like commodity forecasting and item-specific food cost modeling to help you plan smarter and maximize profitability. Learn how you can receive even more in-depth insights delivered daily from CommodityONE to elevate your strategy.

Learn More

Expert insights curated weekly.

Powered by CommodityONE

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Produce

Leafy greens, broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts are seeing higher prices due to heat and weather impacts. Bell peppers, squash, and asparagus are also tightening—particularly color varieties. Tomatoes, celery, and cucumbers are more stable. Avocados and lemons remain tight, while oranges and limes are stable but under strong demand. Grapes are transitioning to California with green varieties priced highest. Multi-units should focus on spec compliance and category substitution to protect margins.

Grains

Soybean oil saw a sharp dip last week, but market volatility continues due to global tensions and policy shifts. Canola and palm oils also eased. If your units rely on large-volume fryers, consider forward buying or alternate oil blends to hedge against price spikes.

Dairy

Eggs, cheese blocks, and butter are trending lower, offering temporary relief. Cream remains abundant. For concepts using dairy across LTOs or dessert programs, it’s a good time to evaluate pricing resets or extended contracts.

Beef

A potential strike at a major beef plant was avoided, but tight supply continues to drive pricing steady to higher. Strips and top butts are moving faster than ribs, and end cuts are firming due to lean trim demand. If beef is a menu driver across locations, consider tightening specs or optimizing portioning.

Pork

Post-holiday, pork markets softened—especially butts, ribs, and bellies, though the latter remains volatile. Loins are stable, and trim remains strong. Multi-unit operators may want to lock in favorable pricing while the market is down.

Poultry

Tenders remain constrained, with no relief expected this summer. Wing demand is up, tightening supply. Breasts, thighs, and leg meat have stabilized, offering reliable options for center-of-plate value. This is a good time to audit SKUs and assess alternates across locations.

Seafood

Seasonal seafood is front and center. Concepts looking to refresh summer menus can turn to wild salmon, tuna, snapper, swordfish, and lake fish for profitable and high-demand features. Consider cross-utilizing proteins across locations for consistency and waste reduction.

Need Help Managing Market Volatility?

Consolidated Concepts offers custom contract support, commodity tracking, and supply chain solutions to help operators thrive—no matter the market conditions. Reach out to see how we can help your business stay ahead of pricing swings and supply uncertainty.

Want the full report in your inbox everyday?

Submit the short form to learn how to get the FULL CommodityONE report delivered DAILY to your inbox: 

CommodityONE offers a diversity in format and provides definitive content that presents the trends and forecasts that align with what’s happening in the industry. Sign up for CommodityONE today to unlock the most in-depth foodservice commodities report on the market.

Expert insights curated weekly.

Powered by CommodityONE

Commodity forecasting highlights from CommodityONE

This snapshot report is released every week. To learn more about the FULL report, click here. 

Designed to support purchasing and forecasting teams in managing price risks, CommodityONE provides powerful tools like commodity forecasting and item-specific food cost modeling to help you plan smarter and maximize profitability. Learn how you can receive even more in-depth insights delivered daily from CommodityONE to elevate your strategy.

Learn More

Expert insights curated weekly.

Powered by CommodityONE

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Produce

Avocados dropped 18 % to fresh YTD lows, slipping below 2024 levels. Iceberg lettuce jumped 35 % yet remains seasonally normal, and Idaho russets began their customary pre-harvest climb. Virus chatter in Western lettuce is on the radar but hasn’t shifted supply flows.

Outlook: Avocado values should stay favorable through August—good window for promotions. Lettuce likely flat until September lift; potatoes may add $1-$2/carton by mid-July. Stagger contracts to ride the avocado trough while capping potato upside.

Grains

Winter wheat erased geopolitical gains; soy oil followed crude lower despite bullish biofuel policy chatter. Traders brace for acreage & stocks data that could swing the complex.

Outlook: Near-term volatility high—basis contracts or cost-plus flour deals are prudent. Longer-term, soy oil’s story is still upward; evaluate futures or supplier caps for fryer oil heading into Q4.

Dairy

Butter nudged to $2.54/lb on solid export pull; cheese blocks eased to $1.61/lb as retail features cooled. Milk production is ebbing but still adequate; cream tightness in parts of the West could keep butter bid.

Outlook: Butter remains supported—forward cover through Q3 if pastries or sauces are core. Cheese sits in a holding pattern; consider short-term contracts and pivot to blends if prices rebound with back-to-school demand.

Beef

Live cattle futures lost 1.5 % but the choice cutout advanced to $395/cwt on record trim prices (50 % trim at $2.34/lb). Middle meats cooled slightly, and packers are signaling harvest cutbacks to manage cash cattle. End-cut values split, showing no broad weakness.

Outlook: Market should crest next week before typical mid-July slip; secure ground beef while still climbing, but delay heavy rib/loin buys until signs of that peak emerge. Multi-unit groups can leverage volume to negotiate formula pricing tied to boxed-beef averages instead of spot.

Pork

The composite cutout rose another 1 % (14 % MTD) as bellies (+4 %) and tenderloins firmed, while trims lost steam and export butt sales dried up. Futures and cash prices are decoupling—early evidence the rally is tiring.

Outlook: Expect a soft pullback in July; tariff clarity after the 90-day pause will set Q3 direction. Hedge belly needs now if bacon drives traffic, but leave flex in loin programs to capture the anticipated dip.

Poultry

Chicken harvests ran 3.6 % above last year, holding whole-bird pricing steady while boneless/skinless breasts slid to $2.39/lb (-14 % m/m) and wings lifted modestly to $1.26/lb—still half of 2024’s cost. Thigh meat retreated on light dark-meat demand; egg values inched 1 % higher after May’s correction. Supply remains balanced, but limited harvest growth is preventing oversupply.

Outlook: Seasonal softening should continue into late summer, yet value-driven retail ads will keep white meat firm. Consider locking in breast meat on short-term contracts and weighting menus toward wings while they’re historically cheap.

Seafood

Frozen cod filets hit a record $4.89/lb, extending a five-month rally and standing 27 % over last year. Historical patterns say April usually caps out, suggesting upside exhaustion.

Outlook: Prices should drift lower as imports rebuild, but budget a gradual decline—not a cliff. Hold existing inventory, defer large buys until late Q3, and diversify menus with lower-cost whitefish to protect basket margins.

Need Help Managing Market Volatility?

Consolidated Concepts offers custom contract support, commodity tracking, and supply chain solutions to help operators thrive—no matter the market conditions. Reach out to see how we can help your business stay ahead of pricing swings and supply uncertainty.

Want the full report in your inbox everyday?

Submit the short form to learn how to get the FULL CommodityONE report delivered DAILY to your inbox: 

CommodityONE offers a diversity in format and provides definitive content that presents the trends and forecasts that align with what’s happening in the industry. Sign up for CommodityONE today to unlock the most in-depth foodservice commodities report on the market.

Expert insights curated weekly.

Powered by CommodityONE

Commodity forecasting highlights from CommodityONE

This snapshot report is released every week. To learn more about the FULL report, click here. 

Designed to support purchasing and forecasting teams in managing price risks, CommodityONE provides powerful tools like commodity forecasting and item-specific food cost modeling to help you plan smarter and maximize profitability. Learn how you can receive even more in-depth insights delivered daily from CommodityONE to elevate your strategy.

Learn More

Expert insights curated weekly.

Powered by CommodityONE

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Produce

Avocados ended their 11-week price drop with a slight uptick. Roma tomatoes continued their descent but at a slower pace. Prices for most other core items held relatively steady.

Outlook: Avocados are entering their most volatile seasonal window. Consider forward contracts or price protections to avoid sharp spot market increases in July and August. Tomato pricing may see short-term stabilization, but long-term relief isn’t expected until September.

Grains

Grain markets paused last week. Wheat pricing climbed due to harvest delays and global unrest, but the rally appears short-lived. U.S. winter wheat harvest is far behind schedule, particularly in Oklahoma and Illinois.

Outlook: Expect wheat prices to correct as weather improves and harvest resumes. Monitor supplier updates closely and reassess futures-based procurement strategies heading into Q3.

Dairy

Butter and cheese prices softened slightly last week, with CME blocks and barrels both at $1.69/lb. Butter demand remains strong domestically and abroad. Milk production is adequate despite regional tightening.

Outlook: Watch for modest pressure on dairy through summer due to tight cream supplies and sustained retail demand. Multi-unit operators should explore volume leverage on cheese and butter contracts now to prepare for potential Q3 firming.

Beef

Beef cutouts climbed sharply, with Choice up 4% and Select up 3%. Key cuts like tenderloins, striploins, and top sirloins hit or approached record highs. Ground beef also surged, with 50% trim hitting a new record at $2.00/lb. Cattle futures dipped slightly, but pricing strength persisted across primals and grinds.

Outlook: With grilling season in full swing, operators should anticipate elevated pricing on both premium and value cuts through the July 4th holiday. Strategic sourcing on end cuts and ground beef will be key. Consider locking in volume pricing where possible and lean on supplier partners to identify cost-effective substitutes.

Pork

The pork complex continued to climb, with the overall cutout up 4% week-over-week and nearly 19% month-over-month. Bellies, ribs, butts, and hams all moved higher, while boneless loins remained flat. Export activity spiked, especially for pork butts.

Outlook: This may be the last opportunity for favorable pork pricing before late fall. Strong seasonal demand and tightening availability could put upward pressure on key cuts. Multi-unit concepts should align purchasing timelines across locations to lock in pricing ahead of Independence Day volume surges.

Poultry

Weekly chicken harvests rose 1.4% YoY. Boneless breasts dropped $0.04 to $2.65/lb, while tenderloins increased $0.06 to $2.59/lb. Wing prices rose slightly but remain well below historical norms. Thigh meat prices were steady, with B/S thighs up 31% YoY. Turkey breasts rose 6% week-over-week. Egg prices ticked up 1% but are still down 20% month-over-month.

Outlook: While overall poultry markets are entering a typical seasonal decline, expect continued demand pressure on white meat. Multi-unit operators should evaluate pre-orders and contract positions on tenderloins and thighs to manage margin exposure, especially as summer menus lean heavier on chicken.

Seafood

Salmon prices declined 6.9% m/m—finally returning to seasonal norms after months of elevated costs. The early downturn in April marked a turning point in the previously inflated market.

Outlook: Pricing should ease further into Q3. This is an ideal time for multi-unit menus to reintroduce or promote salmon offerings, particularly as margins improve. Consider locking in forward buys before fall volatility begins.

Need Help Managing Market Volatility?

Consolidated Concepts offers custom contract support, commodity tracking, and supply chain solutions to help operators thrive—no matter the market conditions. Reach out to see how we can help your business stay ahead of pricing swings and supply uncertainty.

Want the full report in your inbox everyday?

Submit the short form to learn how to get the FULL CommodityONE report delivered DAILY to your inbox: 

CommodityONE offers a diversity in format and provides definitive content that presents the trends and forecasts that align with what’s happening in the industry. Sign up for CommodityONE today to unlock the most in-depth foodservice commodities report on the market.

Expert insights curated weekly.

Powered by CommodityONE

When operators think about profitability, food and labor usually take the spotlight—but restaurant indirect costs can quietly erode margins if left unmanaged.

From cleaning chemicals and uniforms to equipment repairs and payroll tools, these non-food essentials are easy to overlook. But across multiple locations, small inefficiencies in these categories can snowball into major operational expenses. And the bigger your restaurant footprint gets, the harder they become to track and control.

Optimizing restaurant indirect costs isn’t just about cutting back. It’s about gaining visibility, standardizing spend, and unlocking new savings to improve your bottom line.

Let’s break it down.

What Is Indirect Spend (and Why It’s So Easy to Miss)?

Indirect spend covers everything your restaurant purchases that isn’t food or beverage but is still critical to operations. It’s the cleaning supplies that get reordered every week. The uniforms you lease. The lightbulbs, trash bags, pest control, fryer oil disposal, and the software your team uses to track tips or schedules.

Individually, these may seem like small line items. But across multiple locations and months of service, these “minor” expenses can quickly add up—and chip away at your profitability without you realizing it.

Where the Dollars Disappear: Key Indirect Spend Categories

Here are some common indirect spend categories where multi-unit operators frequently overspend:

• Cleaning and Janitorial Supplies – Purchased as-needed, often without volume discounts
• Uniforms and Linens – Leased or bought at inconsistent prices from multiple vendors
• Equipment and Repairs – Emergency fixes and parts that vary widely by location
• Waste and Recycling Services – Missed contract renegotiations or inefficient pickup schedules
• Office Supplies and Admin Tools – One-off purchases without preferred pricing
• HR and Payroll Platforms – Different tools used by different units, adding unnecessary licensing costs

Without a centralized procurement strategy, these costs can spiral—especially when each location is ordering independently.

The Risk of Inconsistent Vendor Pricing Across Locations

When each unit manages its own indirect purchases, pricing can vary wildly—even for identical products. One location might pay 15% more for the same hand soap or trash liners simply because they’re sourcing from a different supplier or haven’t negotiated terms. That inconsistency adds up fast across 10, 20, or 50 units.

Consolidated Concepts helps standardize purchasing across your footprint so every location benefits from preferred pricing.

The Operational Toll of Managing Too Many Vendors

Multiple vendors mean multiple invoices, contracts, service issues, and account reps. It’s a heavy administrative load for your teams—and it gets heavier as you grow. Managing indirect spend without a centralized system not only wastes money but also valuable time your staff could spend on more strategic priorities.

With Consolidated Concepts, operators can simplify vendor relationships and reduce the burden on their teams.

How to Audit Restaurant Indirect Costs (Without Overwhelming Your Team)

If you’re not sure where your indirect dollars are going, here are three ways to get started:

1. Run a Location-Level Spend Review – Pull purchasing reports from the last 3–6 months for each unit. Look at non-food categories—then compare vendors, pricing, and order frequency.
2. Identify Repeat or High-Frequency Purchases – These are the quick wins. Items like gloves, napkins, chemicals, and software licenses are ripe for standardization and bulk savings.
3. Consolidate Vendors Where Possible – Multiple vendors doing the same job = missed leverage. Streamlining vendors gives you more negotiating power and consistency.

How Consolidated Concepts Can Help You Take Back Control

At Consolidated Concepts, we help multi-unit operators uncover the restaurant indirect costs that are quietly eating into margins—and connect them to over 175,000 rebated and discounted line items that cover nearly every operational need.

Here’s how we support your business:

• Cost benchmarking to expose hidden overspending
• Vendor consolidation strategies to improve efficiency
• Access to pre-negotiated programs for everything from uniforms to waste services
• Purchasing data insights to optimize your indirect spend

Even if it’s not food, chances are—we can help you save on it.

Don’t Let the Small Stuff Slip Through the Cracks

Food and labor may get the spotlight—but indirect spend deserves a seat at the table. With the right strategy and support, you can rein in these hidden costs and boost profitability across every unit.

Let Consolidated Concepts help you uncover what you’ve been overlooking—fill out the form below and start saving smarter today.

Commodity forecasting highlights from CommodityONE

This snapshot report is released every week. To learn more about the FULL report, click here. 

Designed to support purchasing and forecasting teams in managing price risks, CommodityONE provides powerful tools like commodity forecasting and item-specific food cost modeling to help you plan smarter and maximize profitability. Learn how you can receive even more in-depth insights delivered daily from CommodityONE to elevate your strategy.

Learn More

Expert insights curated weekly.

Powered by CommodityONE

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Produce

Avocados paused their recent slide, but pricing still trends downward long-term. Roma tomatoes continue to correct and may rebound soon. Lettuce remains stable for now but could see pressure from emerging crop disease issues.

Outlook: Avocado and tomato pricing remain favorable near term. Watch lettuce closely, as disease-driven supply disruption could create a short-term price spike.

Grains

Soybean oil rallied sharply at the end of the week following the EPA’s favorable 2026–2027 RVO announcement, boosting long-term biofuel demand expectations.

Outlook: Expect continued strength in soybean oil markets as biofuel policy and supply chain dynamics create bullish momentum through the second half of the year.

Dairy

CME block and barrel cheese both dipped slightly, while butter prices held steady. Inventories are building, but cheese demand remains consistent from both retail and foodservice.

Outlook: Cheese and butter markets should remain relatively stable, though international butter demand could create upward pressure later in the season.

Beef

Choice and select cutouts moved higher again last week, driven by stronger pricing across ribs, loins, and end cuts. Ground beef and trim prices also rose, indicating tightening supply.

Outlook: With cattle futures climbing and July 4th demand building, beef markets should continue to strengthen in the short term before stabilizing post-holiday.

Pork

Primal markets surged across the board—bellies rose 9%, hams 8%, and pork butts saw a 6% jump. Trims also moved up, reflecting solid domestic demand despite slower export activity.

Outlook: Pork prices are on an upswing that’s likely to continue into July. Operators should prepare for elevated costs and secure volume early where possible.

Poultry

Boneless/skinless breast prices fell $0.09/lb to $2.69, while tenderloins rose slightly to $2.53/lb. Wings ticked up to $1.19/lb but remain significantly lower year-over-year. Thigh meat is still elevated, up 33% y/y.

Outlook: Expect gradual seasonal softening, but supply constraints and sustained demand from foodservice will likely keep white meat prices relatively firm through summer.

Seafood

Fresh yellowfin tuna dropped 27% m/m to $3.85/lb—its lowest level in years. This dramatic pricing dip is unlikely to last, as importers adjust to market conditions.

Outlook: Yellowfin pricing likely bottomed out and should trend upward over the next few months. Consider locking in value now for future needs.

Need Help Managing Market Volatility?

Consolidated Concepts offers custom contract support, commodity tracking, and supply chain solutions to help operators thrive—no matter the market conditions. Reach out to see how we can help your business stay ahead of pricing swings and supply uncertainty.

Want the full report in your inbox everyday?

Submit the short form to learn how to get the FULL CommodityONE report delivered DAILY to your inbox: 

CommodityONE offers a diversity in format and provides definitive content that presents the trends and forecasts that align with what’s happening in the industry. Sign up for CommodityONE today to unlock the most in-depth foodservice commodities report on the market.

Expert insights curated weekly.

Powered by CommodityONE

Commodity forecasting highlights from CommodityONE

This snapshot report is released every week. To learn more about the FULL report, click here. 

Designed to support purchasing and forecasting teams in managing price risks, CommodityONE provides powerful tools like commodity forecasting and item-specific food cost modeling to help you plan smarter and maximize profitability. Learn how you can receive even more in-depth insights delivered daily from CommodityONE to elevate your strategy.

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Produce

Roma tomato prices fell another 15% to $9.48/cs, now more than 33% off recent highs. Iceberg lettuce and avocados remain stable and are approaching their lowest points of the year. Transitions have gone smoothly with no major disruptions.

Outlook: Produce pricing is expected to stabilize, offering a window to optimize category spend. Review contracts and buying behaviors to take advantage of these lows.

Grains

Spring wheat continues to drive headlines amid global supply challenges, while improved U.S. winter wheat crop ratings have tempered domestic prices. Export activity remained moderate last week.

Outlook: Grains may stay under slight downward pressure. Operators should use this time to revisit long-term contracts and hedge against future volatility.

Dairy

Butter rose $0.13 to $2.49/lb, while cheese remained unchanged. Strong retail promotions and growing milk availability continue to support dairy production. Nonfat dry milk also gained to $1.29/lb.

Outlook: Expect some upward movement in butter and milk costs. Multi-unit operators should track regional pricing and align purchasing accordingly.

Beef

Despite rib segments falling, the beef market overall pushed higher with striploins reaching $11.84/lb and ground beef steady at $3.63/lb. Futures rose 3.5% on tighter supply expectations, and premium loin cuts showed notable strength.

Outlook: Market pressure will likely keep beef prices elevated. Now’s the time to review contracts and evaluate substitution opportunities for high-cost cuts.

Pork

Pork cutout values rose 3% to $108.12/cwt, with strong gains in bellies, ribs, and tenderloins. Bellies jumped to $1.98/lb while pork butts held strong. Export sales dipped, but domestic demand continues to lead.

Outlook: Pork prices are trending up through July. Multi-unit teams should review menu engineering and consider locking in pricing where volume is high.

Poultry

Chicken pricing remained firm last week, with boneless breasts at $2.77/lb and tenderloins jumping to $2.50/lb, supported by a 12% increase in retail ads. Boneless thigh meat continued its climb, now up 34% y/y. Harvest volumes increased 2.5% w/w, giving operators some breathing room.

Outlook: White and dark meat demand is holding strong. Multi-unit operators should maintain current poultry strategies while monitoring weekly shifts in tenderloin and thigh pricing.

Seafood

Snow crab prices pulled back 2.9% month-over-month following February’s spike. Import volumes are recovering, and the market is showing signs of stabilizing ahead of the summer peak season.

Outlook: Seafood costs are cooling, especially in crab. Use this pricing window to enhance premium offerings without sacrificing profitability.

Need Help Managing Market Volatility?

Consolidated Concepts offers custom contract support, commodity tracking, and supply chain solutions to help operators thrive—no matter the market conditions. Reach out to see how we can help your business stay ahead of pricing swings and supply uncertainty.

Want the full report in your inbox everyday?

Submit the short form to learn how to get the FULL CommodityONE report delivered DAILY to your inbox: 

CommodityONE offers a diversity in format and provides definitive content that presents the trends and forecasts that align with what’s happening in the industry. Sign up for CommodityONE today to unlock the most in-depth foodservice commodities report on the market.

Expert insights curated weekly.

Powered by CommodityONE

Commodity forecasting highlights from CommodityONE

This snapshot report is released every week. To learn more about the FULL report, click here. 

Designed to support purchasing and forecasting teams in managing price risks, CommodityONE provides powerful tools like commodity forecasting and item-specific food cost modeling to help you plan smarter and maximize profitability. Learn how you can receive even more in-depth insights delivered daily from CommodityONE to elevate your strategy.

Learn More

Expert insights curated weekly.

Powered by CommodityONE

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Produce

Stability continued across core produce items. Roma tomatoes saw a temporary 22% price dip but are still tracking within their normal seasonal band. Iceberg lettuce remained flat, and avocados continued their steady decline, improving year-over-year price comparisons.

Outlook: Produce costs should remain relatively flat through summer barring weather disruptions. Operators can use this period of predictability to refine spec consistency and avoid last-minute market buys.

Grains

Grain markets cooled off last week despite weaker-than-expected corn crop ratings. Tariff headlines failed to move the market significantly, and traders are now focused on June’s rainfall and yield forecasts.

Outlook: Corn and other grains are expected to stay under pressure unless weather turns adverse. Now is an opportune time to assess coverage and protect margins across high-usage grain-based products.

Dairy

Butter led the dairy category higher, increasing $0.13/lb to $2.49/lb. Cheese held steady at elevated levels, and nonfat dry milk rose to $1.29/lb. Strong domestic demand and rising exports are supporting processor activity and pricing.

Outlook: Margins on dairy-heavy items may be impacted if these trends continue. Multi-unit chains should monitor contracts closely and look for regional sourcing advantages where possible.

Beef

Beef pricing edged higher again, with the choice cutout reaching $366.09/cwt and multiple premium cuts like striploins and top sirloins gaining ground. Ground beef and trimmings were up as well, with 81% lean at $3.62/lb and 50% trim up $0.07 to $1.32/lb.

Outlook: Ongoing tight harvests are driving price support across both premium and value cuts. Operators should explore contract coverage and evaluate blended product strategies to manage cost exposure.

Pork

Pork markets moved sharply higher across several key categories. Bellies, hams, and trim all posted significant gains, with 72% trim up $0.14/lb and bellies rising 5% to $150.16/cwt. Pork butts also showed positive movement, bolstered by export activity.

Outlook: With export sales rebounding and domestic demand strong, pork values may remain firm in the short term. Multi-unit groups should assess high-volume SKUs for forward pricing opportunities.

Poultry

Poultry markets held relatively steady last week, with minor shifts in pricing across segments. Boneless breasts ticked down to $2.76/lb, while tenderloins climbed to $2.44/lb—marking an 11.5% increase for May. Boneless thigh meat was also up again, rising to $2.45/lb and showing 38% growth year-over-year.

Outlook: With consistent foodservice and retail demand, white meat pricing is expected to stay firm. Multi-unit operators should continue leveraging poultry as a reliable center-of-plate protein for cost-conscious menu planning.

Seafood

Frozen cod prices surged to a 22-month high, hitting $4.60/lb in March and holding elevated into June. Limited early-year imports are contributing to the spike, and a return to typical ranges may be slow.

Outlook: Seafood pricing may soften later this summer, but short-term costs are likely to remain high. Operators should consider adjusting portion sizes or diversifying species to manage spend effectively.

Need Help Managing Market Volatility?

Consolidated Concepts offers custom contract support, commodity tracking, and supply chain solutions to help operators thrive—no matter the market conditions. Reach out to see how we can help your business stay ahead of pricing swings and supply uncertainty.

Want the full report in your inbox everyday?

Submit the short form to learn how to get the FULL CommodityONE report delivered DAILY to your inbox: 

CommodityONE offers a diversity in format and provides definitive content that presents the trends and forecasts that align with what’s happening in the industry. Sign up for CommodityONE today to unlock the most in-depth foodservice commodities report on the market.

Expert insights curated weekly.

Powered by CommodityONE