I remember when planning menus for incentive groups (I worked in travel)- the clients were interested in the product cost percentages.
It may be more behind the scenes now, but one guy I worked with, was very savvy about hotels and food. He had the lingo down pat. I actually learned a lot from him.
Another occasion, a hotel F and B director, asked a client if he wanted the product cost percentage. The client said no, I just want to know the total cost.