Weekly Roundup – Week of 8.21.23
August 25, 2023
Read this week’s top food and beverage-related news stories – curated by our team of strategists and food enthusiasts:
Winning In The Snacking Industry
“The snacking industry is vital to the nation’s economy,” Christine Cochran of SNAC International said in a webinar, citing over “$186.4 billion in sales last year – roughly 27% of all food/bev sales in the U.S.” Yet, not all snacks are loved equally, so which snacks satisfy Americans most? Here are a few consumer snacking insights highlighted by Circana data:
- 83% want bold flavors
- 71% want convenience
- 66% snacks to fuel the day/satiety
- 62% want snacks to be fun and indulgent
- 50% of consumers snack instead of eating a meal due to on-the-go lifestyles
Multipacks, tried-and-true flavors, and true indulgence are additional factors driving consumer purchases. Find all the snacking trends, Here.
C-Stores Quench Consumers’ Thirst With Unique Dispensed Beverages
Convenience stores that innovate their dispensed beverage programs are successfully differentiating themselves from their quick-service competitors. Expanding fountain soda offerings, adding exotic flavors to dispensed bubble teas, and augmenting hot coffee programs with unique flavors are helping some retailers see doubt-digit sales in 2023. Innovating with energy shots and flavored waters are other profitable ways to drive traffic inside the store. Read Story.
Looking For Growth In All The Small Places
Starbucks is setting its sights on expanding to smaller communities around the U.S. According to Restaurant Business, small towns are often welcoming of new restaurants and Starbucks officials feel they are the next growth opportunity with big potential. “Small, rural towns value community and Starbucks can do well if it supports and engages with the local community. Being a good neighbor will go a long way,” said Bob Vergidis a restaurant expert and executive with pointofsale.cloud. Read Article.
Customize Digital Shopping Experiences To Attract Gen Z Consumers
Regional grocers who customize and cater their apps to accommodate younger, tech-savvy shoppers can boost online shopping orders. Several regional grocers such as Publix and ShopRite have moved their weekly digital circulars front and center on their homepages and have added features like links to deals, shoppable recipes, and in-app shopping aisles users can browse to easily find specific categories or items. Learn More.
Smart Or Stupid Marketing Stunts?
Heinz has taken on consumers’ love of all things spicy with a new campaign that focuses on flavorful heat versus foods that test consumers’ heat tolerance. Its “Stupid Good, Not Stupid Spicy” campaign hopes to “remind heat seekers everywhere that they can enjoy the spice that they crave and great taste.” The promotion is supported by a strong digital and social media presence. Hellmann’s is also cashing in on a monumental virtual brand moment when former Kentucky quarterback, Will Levis, squeezed Hellmann’s Mayonnaise into his cup of coffee. This virtual stunt resulted in about 1 million views and Levis receiving a lifetime supply.
Visit our blog every week to find more top trending F&B stories!
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