Innovation in food service technology and its
strategic role
Innovation in food service technology offers differentiation and cost leadership in strategic terms.
The majority of food service businesses do not have research and development laboratories. At
present, the innovations in equipment design and layout, packaging and service techniques are of a
defensive or reactive nature. Examples of defensive innovation include faster and better preparation
methods, improved temperature control, even heating, energy and labour savings, less waste, better
sanitation, faster service and flexibility. In contrast, developments in offensive or pro-active
innovation, which can radically change current practices, are rare. Novel food service processes can
evolve as a result of adoption of technological breakthroughs in ‘‘high tech’’ fields of the economy.
This justifies investments in offensive research and highlights the importance of technical
competencies for a food service professional.
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