Q&A with Entegra Experts: Smarter GPO Strategies for Lodging & Restaurant Procurement

Over the past 12 months, foodservice and procurement leaders across restaurants,lodging, senior living, and golf & leisure[SH1]  have leaned on Entegra’s expertise to navigate rising costs, supply chain complexity, and evolving guest expectations. Whether you’re focused on restaurant procurement, lodging procurement, or enterprise-wide sourcing, these insights are designed to help you perform better in the year ahead.

As we head into 2026, we’re revisiting the most impactful advice shared by Entegra experts—practical guidance that helps operators move beyond price alone and unlock the full value of a GPO partnership.

Key Themes That Defined 2025

• Strategic procurement and measurable savings
• Data, AI, and digital procurement tools
• Operational efficiency and labor optimization
• Culinary solutions that protect margins and elevate the guest experience

What resonated most with operators this year? And what can you apply to strengthen your 2026 strategy? Read on for the Best of 2025 insights built to drive outsized performance.

How can operators cut costs and improve kitchen efficiency without sacrificing guest experience?

Take a strategic, operator-first approach.

“We begin with a full operational review, then recommend product matching and cutting, menu costing and menu-mix analysis, SKU rationalization, time-and-motion studies, and waste-reduction strategies—each targeted to the client’s specific pain points.”

— Chef Lynn Hay, Head of Entegra Culinary Consulting

For restaurant procurement teams and lodging procurement leaders alike, the biggest gains often come from aligning purchasing decisions with real operational behavior in the kitchen. A GPO-backed culinary strategy ensures savings don’t come at the expense of quality or consistency.

What should procurement teams look for in digital procurement tools?

Think holistically, not transactionally.

“When selecting digital procurement tools, operators should focus on platforms that function as integrated ecosystems. The best solutions provide a 360-degree view of the organization and support the full digital procurement lifecycle—replacing manual tasks with streamlined workflows and faster, smarter decisions.”

— Adam Sarbudeen, VP of Digital Solutions

For organizations managing complex lodging procurement or multi-unit restaurant procurement, integrated digital tools are essential. Paired with a GPO, these platforms improve visibility, compliance, and control—while freeing teams to focus on strategy instead of spreadsheets.

What is Entegra’s Shopping Assistant (ESA) and why does it matter?

Because finding the best price should be effortless.

“ESA is an AI-driven browser extension that layers over a distributor’s e-store and helps Entegra clients identify the best prices in real time—whether contracted or not. Icons highlight contracted items, lower-cost alternatives, and potential savings as you shop.”

— Jennifer Swearingen, eProcurement System Manager

For procurement professionals in both restaurants and lodging, ESA turns everyday purchasing into a strategic advantage. It’s a powerful example of how a modern GPO uses AI to simplify decisions and unlock immediate value.

What should clients expect from Entegra’s account management and client service?

A true performance partner not just a contract provider.

This hands-on approach ensures GPO strategies stay aligned with evolving business goals—whether you’re overseeing a single restaurant or a multi-property lodging portfolio.

Read more: Why Join a GPO

What if my team isn’t realizing the full potential of our culinary offering?

Start small—and unlock big opportunities.

“Culinary services are a critical partnership that protects margins and reduces food, labor, and supply costs. Engagements can start with something as focused as a product recommendation or a limited-time offer. Even small projects deliver tangible value and often lead to long-term partnerships.”

— Laurel Elliott, Chef & Director of Culinary Sales

Entegra Culinary Consulting supports both restaurant procurement and lodging procurement teams by aligning menus, sourcing, and operations—ensuring foodservice programs are profitable, scalable, and guest-ready.

Read more: Entegra Culinary Consulting—Where passion meets operational acumen

How can operators explain that Entegra offers more than GPO cost savings?

Because performance requires more than pricing.

For leaders in lodging procurement and restaurant procurement, the true value of a GPO lies in expertise, insight, and partnership not just negotiated contracts.

Read more: Entegra Procurement Playbook

Make 2026 Your Best Year Yet

As you plan for the year ahead, now is the time to reassess your purchasing strategy, procurement processes, and operational goals. With the right GPO partner, smarter tools, and expert support, 2026 can be your strongest performing year yet.

Contact Entegra today to review your procurement strategy and unlock new opportunities across lodging and restaurant operations.