“The volume of trend-related information can be overwhelming, especially when trends seem to collide or contradict one another,” said Susan J. Dountas, senior director of foodservice marketing for Libbey. “Through the Libbey Professional Insights, we look at ways contrasting trends present innovative opportunities. Those opportunities translate to deliver future-looking tableware solutions that drive their business forward.”
This year’s Professional Insights are being released in four installments. The theme of the first issue was, Do More x Use Less, highlighting the creative solutions to maximize every square foot, to give more impact with the fine details and making the most of outdoor dining spaces. The second issue, What’s Old x Made New, honors heritage, while shaking everything up. New glassware styles have a nod to the past while delivering trend-forward solutions.
“Retro drink styles are again in vogue accompanied by heightened expectations for a premium cocktail experience,” Dountas said.
New glassware from Libbey expands the depth of the Libbey Glassware collection and is ideal for embracing the elevated drink trends by creating presentations with high style that command premium price points.
- The Gats was selected as Libbey’s 2018 Europe Glassology award winner. The design harkens back to earlier times with a blend of Art Deco glam and modern style. It will be available in two sizes, 9 ¾ oz. rocks and 11 ¾ oz. hi-ball.
- The streamlined cut-glass look of Flashback beautifully showcases any drink, from sophisticated cocktails to elevated non-alcoholic options. Its linear prism cut creates a retro vibe and visual intrigue, especially the way light passes through it. It’s available in a 12 oz. double old fashioned, 16 oz. cooler and 25 ¼ oz. stirring glass, which features a pedestal base for added cocktail presentation flair.
- Gallery Stackable delivers performance with flair, featuring a faceted design that adds a retro or modern vibe depending on how it’s served. An inner ridge allows balanced, consistent-looking stackability, ideal for small spaces where storage is a premium. It’s available in five sizes, from rocks to cooler, offering versatility for any beverage. Libbey-exclusive DuraTuff® thermal treatment strengthens the upper portion of the glass, the area most vulnerable to breakage.
- Orbital is the first stackable stemless glassware introduced to the market. A contemporary take on traditional stemless, its distinctive sham and streamlined appearance provides versatility for presenting much more than wine. The glasses also upright themselves when knocked over. Five sizes are available, from 8 ½ oz. to 16 ¾ oz. to serve anything from spirits and cocktails to trend-forward non-alcoholic alternatives.
“The vessel is almost everything. It’s holding the liquid, the garnishes. It’s what you’re touching, putting your mouth on. [The glassware] plays a very integral role in the theatrics of a cocktail,” said Yani Moraitis Frye, co-owner of Bad Luck Bar in Detroit.
For more information on Professional Insights by Libbey or to see their vast collection of tabletop products for the hospitality industry, visit www.foodservice.libbey.com.
