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The transition has changed how Cardinal uses its strengths. It built its reputation on burgers and ground protein and has since developed a sous vide platform with more than 120 products. Brent shares,“ We really do two things exceptionally well from an offering to market. We do about 170 different types of burgers, and we’ ve been at the sous vide game for over 30 years.” Now, Cardinal brings its expertise into new areas where it wasn’ t previously known. Brent explains:“ It’ s taking a sous vide capability into different spaces the customers need,” describing how the team applies its knowledge beyond traditional meat. For example, Cardinal applies the same precise time-and-temperature control for proteins as it does for cooked rice and side dishes. That approach helps foodservice operators reduce prep time, improve consistency, and manage labor more easily.
Brent ties the expansion to broader industry conditions.“ Labor costs are massive,” he says, pointing to the pressures facing restaurants and kitchen teams.“ These products have allowed operators to focus on what they’ re known for.”
Innovation focus
At Cardinal, innovation and product development start with a defined customer need rather than an internal idea seeking a market. That focus on value shapes every product launch as Cardinal tackles rising protein costs by exploring alternative cuts and innovative formats. Brent observes:“ They’ re not feeling like they’ re trading down when they have to move from steaks to, let’ s say, a braised beef.” The new additions to the Roadhouse line, which include pulled pork and pulled beef au jus, reflect this approach. Commenting on the new flavors, Brent reveals,“ Between maple and whiskey, there aren’ t many more ways to be Canadian!”
Cardinal’ s process blends market research with insight from within the company.“ We do a lot of research, and we work with Canada’ s top spice and sauce suppliers. However, the most powerful result comes from listening to customers and our own staff. Common sense is the biggest driver of innovation,” he says.
That mindset drives how Cardinal works with customers. Brent outlines his approach:“ I don’ t go to a customer and ask,‘ Do you
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