Why Healthy Grab and Go Should Matter to Retailers
Why Healthy Snacking Matters
The community convenience store and local garage have risen in importance for shoppers, but retailers need to make sure their snacks offering reflects evolving consumer demands.
One of the highest growth areas for snacking is the rise in convenient, innovative and, above all, healthier impulse snacks which are appearing at a rapid rate. Far from the agonising for three minutes in front of the counter weighing up chocolate bar vs crisps, keen consumers are now turning online to find inspiration and hot trends - being influenced by their international social feeds and savvy product placement to determine their grab and go snack.
New Shopper Missions
Convenience has become the number one channel for top up missions, with the average UK consumer tops-up 3.5 times per week (ACS). Importantly, shoppers are remaining loyal to convenience and many under 30's are using convenience for the first time. The key is going to keep hard won new custom coming back for those interesting, on-trend, healthier and different snacking moments.
According to a recent Grocer report, almost half of all customers are now actively seeking healthier snacks, with ‘less sugar’ options top of the priority list. Consumers across all generations are savvier than ever when it comes to what is in their food, and what that means in terms of their nutritional choices – seeking out products which are more diverse in flavour and health benefits and, crucially for many products, credibility on social media and amongst peers.
Healthier snacking has never been higher on the agenda with immunity boosting products that are fortified with vitamins and probiotics, or promote good gut health and mental wellbeing, in huge demand. Similarly, the ‘health halo’ of plant-based & vegan foods is experiencing unprecedented shopper numbers. Products that provide the nutrition to support exercise and wellbeing routines are an increasingly essential part of a complete convenience store offer.
In fact, three in five people are still trying to make healthy decisions when it comes to snacking. Before lockdown, traditional snacking was in decline, with consumers increasingly looking for healthier snacking options. We don’t believe the current situation will change these attitudinal shifts.
Becoming a Grab and Go Snack Destination
As shoppers have become more savvy about what they’re putting into their bodies, more consumers have started to look at the product ingredients and nutritional fact labels. But where to introduce new healthier ranges in store? Being healthy doesn’t necessarily mean a full store overhaul to fill your aisles with quinoa salads and fruit compotes. It’s about effectively making the most of what you have available. Match the right ranges to your local audience and be open to trying something new.
A lack of space shouldn’t be an obstacle to success. Showcasing an easy format by highlighting healthy options in one place can help consumers see what options there are. Changes in taste and lifestyle are heavily influencing how we shop and tastes are diversifying. Consumers are time pressed and impulse decisions are driving purchase choices. To make the decision easier for both retailer and consumer alike, is it time to consider a well signposted, dedicated healthier grab and go section just like these Epicurium inspired range plans?
New Healthy Snack Ranges for Retailers
Recent Nestlé research has shown that most people buying protein bars are now looking for more innovative protein sources. Plant protein is a preferred option to support an active lifestyle and help consumers get the most out of their busy days. The new KIND protein bars are made of wholesome ingredients, are a source of protein, high in fibre, use no artificial colours or preservatives, gluten free and suitable for vegetarians.
Digestive health has become on the leading health trends in the UK. Covid-19 has brought topics like immunity and general wellness to the fore. A range like Adonis would be perfectly suited to a healthier grab and go display. Fibre and healthy gut bacteria are now becoming universally recognised as the key to good health.
Of course there's also the need for those better for you sweet moments. Deliciously Ella have brought to market some of the very best clean label treats, an emerging trend in the free from and On-The-Go Snacking categories. Clean label is forecast to grow at 7% CAGR from 2020-2025. In this time of global pandemic, consumers are paying more attention to what is going into their food.
Healthy Snacking Category Advice with Epicurium
Would you like to create your very own in-store healthier grab and go destination? As experts in healthier grab and go snacks you can learn more about what we offer on our website. With independent brands stealing a march on the more established brand names, we have the right balance of curated challenger, high growth and innovative snack brands.
Whether you are stocking up for a full healthier snacking bay, or looking to add a new brand at the till point to help customers make the right choice on their daily commute, a wealth of healthy snacks awaits! With a quick turnaround of 24-48 hours, no minimum order number and free delivery* on any order over £80, our team here at Epicurium can have you tapping into freshest healthier grab and go alternatives in no time.