With labor costs rising and staffing challenges continuing across the industry, operators are 

Looking for ways to do more with fewer resources. In fact, 57% of operators cite labor costs as a top operational challenge, while 32% report increased pressure in labor recruitment and hiring. (Datassential, 2026)

Many are responding by simplifying menus, standardizing processes, and reducing operational complexity. The goal isn’t to work faster. It's to create a kitchen that is easier to train, easier to manage, and more consistent across every shift. 

Standardization Drives Efficiency 

One of the most effective ways to improve back-of-house efficiency is through standardization.

Operators are increasingly simplifying menus and focusing on items that can be prepared consistently across multiple dayparts and locations. Fewer variations mean more predictable execution and smoother kitchen operations. 

The sale goes for the menu itself. Standardized packaging can help reduce SKU complexity and simplify back-of-house operations. 

Choose Packaging That Works Across the Menu

Versatile packaging helps operators do more with fewer packaging formats. As operators look for ingredients that can stretch across multiple menu items, they're also looking for packaging that can do the same. 

Packaging solutions that support multiple menu formats include:

• Kraft Paper Square Bowls- Perfect for salads, grain bowls, pasta dishes, rice bowls, and grab ‘n go meals; they provide a versatile, recyclable solution across a wide range of dishes.

• Deluxe Dual Color Hinged Containers- Ideal for burgers, sandwiches, wraps, chicken tenders, and entrée combinations, these hinged containers work across a variety of menu items. They also help deliver a consistent presentation with secure locking lids to help avoid leaks.

• Pulp Plus® Oval Bowls- Designed for burrito bowls, salads, wraps, poke bowls, and other meals, operators get a BPI-certified compostable solution without sacrificing performance.

• r-PRO™ Containers- Suitable for hot entrées and pasta dishes to grain bowls, salads, and grab ‘n go meals, the containers offer flexibility and sustainability across the menu while incorporating post-consumer recycled (PCR) content that is APR® certified.

Standardization Drives Efficiency 

The most efficient kitchens aren’t always the most complex. They’re built around simple, repeatable systems that teams can execute every day.

By standardizing menus, simplifying operations, and selecting versatile packaging solutions, operators can help teams work smarter, adapt more easily, and deliver a consistent (and efficient) experience shift after shift.