The future of food experiences

This chapter explores the current and future drivers of change which influence food experiences. The megatrends are seen as major forces that will sharp the future of food experiences. The postmodern consumer finds himself in very conflicting situations within a short timeframe. Here, food becomes an identity-forming element that serves closeness and family-like structures even in situations of singling out. The strengthening of local concepts, authenticity, and current movements such as organic food, the slow food movement, and the concept of value cocreation is identified as important counterparts to singularization, demographic change, urbanization, and globalization within the transformation economy. These concepts also reflect the increasing search for purpose by consumers rather than pure consumption. Based on these developments, this chapter proposes approaches for retailers, gastronomy, and event organizers to develop future concepts of food experiences. As an outlook, food art and food design are considered to support the industry in anticipating the future of food experiences.