Are Modular Marketplaces the New Must-Have Amenity?

Food lockers for modular marketplaces were already becoming
popular before the pandemic accelerated adoption of the concept
and technology. To discuss this emerging sector of the food and
beverage industry, Barbara Castiglia welcomed Christine Marcus,
founder, and CEO of Alchemista. As a premium curator of food,
beverage, and lifestyle brands, Alchemista offers on-demand
modular marketplaces for everything from temperature-controlled
chef-prepared meals to unique sundries and snacks in residential
buildings and offices.


“We wanted to change the paradigm of what accessibility means
from hours to seconds" - Christine Marcus


According to Marcus, the move to modular marketplaces isn’t just
a trend brought on by the pandemic, but a key part of the future
of the food service industry. Customers are looking for short
wait times and accessibility in the most efficient way possible.
“We wanted to change the paradigm of what accessibility means
from hours to seconds,” Marcus said. This is a game changer in
terms of convenience. This approach to on-time food service is
also more sustainable as it reduces packaging and the number of
deliveries typically associated with prepared meals.


Alchemista deploys its modular marketplaces in universities,
commercial buildings, and luxury high-rises, bringing bespoke
meals from their own kitchens and high-end restaurant partners.
Marcus sees an amenity race happening in the residential
apartment sector and building managers and real estate developers
are Alchemist's primary customers as they look for innovative
ways to stand apart from the competition.  “This is the new
up and coming must-have amenity that basically puts a marketplace
at the fingertips of their residents,” Marcus said.