The warning comes as Lynx Purchasing publishes the Summer 2026 edition of its regular Market Forecast. The report uses exclusive insight from the range of suppliers that Lynx works with, as well as official inflation data, to look at food and drink pricing across the coming months.
Rachel Dobson, managing director of Lynx Purchasing, said: “The upcoming spike in inflation is like an oncoming storm. It’s clearly visible on the horizon and is getting closer all the time, but no one can say exactly when it’s going to hit.
“The Bank of England is predicting a peak in inflation later this year and running into 2027, but that still leaves hard-pressed hospitality operators with a high level of uncertainty as they plan menus across the summer and beyond.
“Operators will need to be more organised when it comes to planning and placing orders. Improved buying discipline is always good practice, supports sustainability, and is one way that hospitality businesses can make an impact on the bottom line despite global pressures.
“More than ever, working with suppliers to make the most of produce when it’s at its best in terms of quality and value, will help mitigate the inevitable impact of higher distribution costs combined with inflationary pressures.”
Specific product areas highlighted in the latest Market Forecast include:
- Meat: Prices for British beef remain very high, making British beef a premium menu option.
- Fish: Staying flexible in terms of fish species used will help make the most of changing availability.
- Oil: Although edible oils are in relatively good supply, demand from the biofuel industry means pricing is linked to the volatility of fuel prices.
A free copy of the Summer 2026 edition of the Lynx Purchasing can be downloaded from the website at www.lynxpurchasing.co.uk.