Get Your Share of the Growing Snacking Market!

For decades, concessions has remained an attractive and profitable business opportunity. And if the latest trends are any indicator, the best days are ahead of us.

First, a quick look at the stats. As a category, snacking sales are outpacing that of overall food and beverage retail. Those numbers are supported by consumer behaviors with 41% reporting they ate three or more snacks per day in 2014. In fact, research has shown that snacking is often replacing meals.

“The future looks very bright for snacking, with category sales estimated to hit at least, if not more than $200 billion by 2020,” states Sally Lyons Wyatt, executive VP at IRI, a market research and analytics firm.

But to reach our full potential, we’ve got work to do. Snacking is highly competitive and it takes an attentive and practical strategy to get results. Here are some key insights into today’s marketplace:

·         Invest in Indulgence – Consumers who said they were treating themselves to indulgent snacks grew by 8 points from 2011 to 2014. Enhance your menu with treats that hit their sweet spot.

·         Champion Chocolate – Chocolate continues to be a customer favorite. According to a report from Packaged Facts, 81% report eating chocolate and predictions are the market will grow in 2016.

·         Combine Taste & Convenience – These two factors are named as the most important influencers when it comes to food decisions. This makes ready-to-eat foods highly desirable.

·         Social Influence – Don’t underestimate the value of social media. Sharing food creations is a trend that is only going to grow. Give your foods a look and taste that attract attention.

·         Tailored Flavors – Customers want customization. When you produce original signature flavors, you’re setting yourself apart and creating an experience they can’t get just anywhere.

Find your niche with products like gourmet flavored popcorn, premium-quality fudge, a wide selection of cotton candy flavors or any assortment of concession food favorites. What’s the right combination for you? Reach out to our concession specialists, available via phone at 562-355-4074 or visit our website at www.beachcitieswholesalers.com.

Your 2016 Gourmet Popcorn Promotion Calendar!

It’s tasty, popular, easy-to-make and profitable!  Gourmet Popcorn has established itself as a prime snacking leader. Make the most of your year ahead by planning strategic promotions around holidays and special events. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Valentine’s Day (Sunday, February 14) - This is a great opportunity for merchandising with heart shaped tins. Spice things up with a cinnamon flavor.
• St. Patrick’s Day (Thursday, March 17) – Be ready with a variety of green colors and flavors like green apple! You could also mix up a custom variety and call it, “Pot of Gold!”
• Easter (Sunday, March 27) – Pastels and fruity flavors will be a colorful addition to any Easter basket. Consider creating special gift baskets for the season.
• Mother’s Day (Sunday, May 8) Father’s Day (Sunday, June 19) – Make mom happy by offering a Mother’s Day special, like a chocolate-covered combination. Dads are sure to love a savory mix like bacon or sour cream & chives.
• Graduations (May & June) – An ideal treat for graduation parties, make up batches in the colors of your local schools.
• 4th of July (Monday, July 4) – In shades of red, white and blue, popcorn never looked so patriotic! It’s also a good time to show your appreciation and offer specials to military servicemen and women.
• Back to School (August & September) – Parents can give teachers an extra bit of encouragement for a great year ahead with gourmet popcorn gift packages. Or make up care packages customers can send to their favorite student away at college. It will be a big hit on campus!
• Halloween (Monday, October 31) – Popcorn makes an excellent alternative treat to candy. Shape orange popcorn into balls and decorate into pumpkins as an extra special treat.
• Christmas (Sunday, December 25) – With a wide assortment of flavors, gourmet popcorn is a gift that can please anyone’s taste buds! Try a red and green holiday color combination for visual appeal. It’s easy to ship so you can send regional favorites like Cincinnati Style Chili to friends and family.
• Year-round – Keep your customers coming back with a special Flavor of the Month Club! Members get special discounts and are invited to be the first to taste new flavors.

Make Beach Cities Wholesalers your partner in the gourmet popcorn business. We’ve got the best in equipment, supplies and recommendations to help keep you popping! Get connected with your local concession expert by contacting us at 562-355-4074.