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The COEX Innovation Awards recognize regional and national chain companies that shape the industry through innovation in culinary, operations, marketing and service. The Innovation Awards are presented each year at IFMA's Chain Operators EXchange (COEX).

Award Categories 

Culinary/Operations Innovation Award recognizes companies that demonstrate true innovation in one or more of such back-of-house areas as:

  • Food preparation, quality and/or presentation
  • Introduction of new menu items
  • Addressing trends that drive consumer behavior (health/wellness, flavor/nutrition, and demographics)
  • Operational systems

Marketing/Service Innovation Award recognizes companies that demonstrate true innovation in one or more of such front-of-house areas as:

  • Communications/advertising/promotions to drive customer attraction and retention
  • Use of social media
  • Wait staff training and incentive programs
  • Ambience and decor