By Jeri Glyn of Jeri Glyn Studios

What is the 2024 Color of the Year according to Pantone? We’ve got two words for you: Peach Fuzz. How can it influence the restaurant industry? Well, that will take a lot more words.

Each January, the New Jersey-based Pantone Color Institute, a renowned authority on color, announces the Pantone Color of the Year. This annual declaration is the result of extensive trend analysis and forecasting by color experts who study influences from various fields, such as fashion, art, design and entertainment. The chosen color is highly anticipated as it sets the tone for design and creative industries throughout the year, serving as a reflection of current cultural, social and aesthetic trends.

The Pantone Color Institute’s tradition of selecting a “Color of the Year” began in the year 2000. Since then, the institute has announced a new color annually. This initiative has had a significant impact on various industries, including fashion, interior design, graphic design and product development, influencing trends and creative expressions around the world.

The first Pantone Color of the Year was “Cerulean Blue.” It was selected as the inaugural Color of the Year in 2000. Pantone described Cerulean Blue as a color of the new millennium, symbolizing optimism and peace in the midst of the fast-paced digital age. This selection set the precedent for an annual tradition that continues to influence trends in the design of everything from packaging, textiles and house paint to nail polish and beyond.

This year’s star of the show is “Peach Fuzz,” or more technically known as Pantone 13-1023. According to Pantone, “Peach Fuzz captures our desire to nurture ourselves and others. It’s a velvety, gentle peach tone whose all-embracing spirit enriches mind, body, and soul.”

“In seeking a hue that echoes our innate yearning for closeness and connection, we chose a color radiant with warmth and modern elegance,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute. “[It’s] a shade that resonates with compassion, offers a tactile embrace, and effortlessly bridges the youthful with the timeless.”

Read on to see how “Peach Fuzz” just might show up in restaurants in 2024.

Interior design and decor: Restaurants often update their interior design and decor to reflect current trends and maintain a fresh atmosphere for their customers. The Pantone Color of the Year can inspire interior designers and owners in their choice of color schemes, upholstery, wall paint, tableware and other design elements.

Branding and marketing: The color can also impact restaurant branding and marketing efforts. Restaurants may use the designated color of the year in their logos, signage, marketing materials and even menu designs to align themselves with current trends and present a contemporary image to their customers.

Menu and food presentation: The Color of the Year can also influence the presentation of food and beverages in restaurants. Chefs and restaurateurs may consider incorporating elements of the color into their plating, garnishes or even certain dishes or drinks to create visually striking and Instagram-worthy presentations.

Customer experience: The ambiance and visual appeal of a restaurant are important factors in providing an enjoyable dining experience for customers. By embracing the chosen color, restaurants can create a sense of novelty and excitement, as customers may enjoy the modern atmosphere that reflects current design trends. Selfies are sure to ensue.

Uniforms and apparel: The Color of the Year can impact the design of staff uniforms and apparel in restaurants. From aprons to shirts and accessories, restaurant owners may incorporate elements of the designated color into their staff’s attire, creating a cohesive and trendy look that aligns with the current color trend.

Seasonal promotions and special events: Restaurants often run seasonal promotions and special events to attract customers. The peach-fuzz hue can be integrated into the design of promotional materials, themed menu items and event decor. For example, a restaurant may create special cocktails or dishes that incorporate the Color of the Year. Peach Bellini anyone?

Exterior design and signage: While the focus is often on the design of a restaurant’s interior, the Color of the Year can also influence the exterior design and signage. From outdoor seating areas to signage and window displays, owners may use the designated color to create eye-catching and inviting storefronts that attract customers and convey a modern image.

Packaging and takeout materials: With the rise of takeout and delivery services, the packaging and presentation of food have become increasingly important. The Color of the Year can influence the design of packaging materials, takeout containers and branded bags, allowing restaurants to create a cohesive and on-trend visual experience for customers enjoying their meals at home.

Website and online ordering platforms: The Color of the Year may be worked into the website’s design elements, such as backgrounds, buttons and accents, to create a visually appealing and modern look.

Visual branding: It can be used to enhance the visual branding of the restaurant’s website. From incorporating the color into the logo design to using it in promotional banners and imagery, the chosen color can help create a cohesive and trendy visual identity online.

Promotional elements: Finally, the Color of the Year can be integrated into promotional elements on the website, such as banners, pop-ups and promotions for seasonal menu items or special events. By doing so, restaurants can create an unique and attention-grabbing online presence.

How do you plan on incorporating the 2024 Pantone Color of the Year, Peach Fuzz, into your business?

Jeri Glyn is a digital storyteller and the social media marketing director for the Pizza Tomorrow Summit. Learn more about her at jeriglyn.com.