Delivery, technology and health trends are changing the foodservice landscape and younger generations are leading this charge, according to “2019 College & University Consumer Trend Report,” a report published by Technomic, Chicago.

"Students have high expectations from their foodservice experiences both on and off campus. Delivery, convenience and menu innovation are all top priorities for college and university students," says Anne Mills, senior manager of consumer insights. "On top of this, they will choose companies that support causes they care about such as reducing waste or employee pay. These expectations are a lot for operators to think about but important to address in order to stay competitive."

Key takeaways from the report include:

• 33% of students are satisfied with their school's foodservice facilities. 
• 69% of students eat off-campus at least once a week.
• 45% of students say it's important that their school is transparent about how ingredients are sourced.

Compiling findings from 1,400 consumer responses, the study helps foodservice operators and suppliers better understand student attitudes and preferences toward on- and off-campus.