Got the munchies? Need a meal between breakfast and brunch? It seems as though consumers are heeding the advice of the famous Snickers slogan and not waiting. However, they’re not only eating candy bars. Healthier snack segments, along with indulgent ones, are growing. In fact, consumers are on a journey for healthier eating, as 71 percent of consumers are trying to eat healthier (with the operative word being trying).
Our 2011 State of the Snack Industry analysis, presented originally at the SNAXPO conference and via webinar on May 19, revealed that through various market research, panels, surveys etc., healthier snacks are outpacing indulgent options – partly driven by better-for-you innovation. Snacks touting high protein and low sodium attributes are demonstrating particularly strong growth.
Not everyone has become a health nut though, as the findings showed that not only do 55 percent of consumers eat what tastes good rather than what is healthy, but 55 percent of them also eat just out of pure enjoyment, not hunger.
Here’s how you can cash in on our voracious appetites:
- Build Baskets with Cross-Promotion and Cross-Merchandising: Value remains an essential snack consideration (76 percent of consumers are actively looking for the best value when buying snacks and price still greatly influences brand choice). Buying chips? Offer a refreshing drink to go with it at a reduced rate.
- Tailor Messages to Key Snack Rituals: In-store signage and displays can drive sales when properly constructed. Create displays with themes that buyers can relate to like putting popcorn, chocolate covered raisins and soda on one display to emulate family movie night.
- Capitalize on the Healthy and Sustainable Trend Early: Don’t wait until there is a larger percentage of consumers who look for healthier options or take a larger interest in sustainable packages – this is one of the few areas that’s still uncharted and needs extra pioneers. Natural and organic snacks saw 8 percent and 7 percent growth, respectively, and the healthier snack segment is outpacing indulgent options.
If you missed our May 19 webinar, click here to review the video.
To stay on top of the latest snack industry trends and news, make sure to save the date for SNAXPO 2012, March 16 – 19 in Phoenix, Arizona. To learn more about SNAXPO, visit: www.snaxpo.com.
