In 2018, consumers are expected to continue looking for more convenience based products. Being able to expedite their shopping experience and in-store decision making is meaningful to today’s diverse consumer group.
Value added produce offerings along with grab-and-go items allow retailers to capitalize on an increased consumer demand. Packages with handles, zippers, resealable tops create attractive packaging options for produce items throughout the department.
Handles, Zippers and resealable tops appeal to more shoppers because they make snacking and storing simple.
Convenience = Ease and Mobility
Consumers are shopping more often but buying less each store visit. It is imperative to retail success that departments have key categories and items displayed to increase incremental sales. Growers and producers are working to develop more single serve options to increase fresh produce consumption as more eating takes place on the go than ever before.
According to The Packer’s 2017 Fresh Trends consumer survey, 12.5% of supermarket and specialty produce buyers reported that they are selling 25% more packaged produce than the previous year and reported that convenience was the key factor in this increase.
To encourage consumers to purchase packaged produce as a snack, use signage and special displays to drive impulse sales. Label signs with “Grab and Go” or “Healthy Choices on the Run” in the produce department to draw attention to displays filled with packaged snack ideas.
Areas to focus on for packaged growth in 2018:
- Fresh cut vegetables
- Berries
- Fresh cut fruit options and blends
- Tomatoes
- Salad kits