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Insight of the Day: Opportunities for Snacking and Entertaining

Key Takeaways from IDDBA 2024:

  • Entertaining and Special Occasions: Consumers are celebrating more than just holidays, leading to a growing demand for products focused on entertaining.

  • Snacking: Snacking is on the rise, with consumers seeking convenient and diverse options for on-the-go consumption.

  • Breakfast at Home: Most breakfast occasions happen at home, creating opportunities for the perimeter to offer portable and exciting breakfast solutions.

  • Targeting Younger Generations: Manufacturers are targeting younger, more diverse generations with innovative products and flavors.

  • Addressing Inflation Concerns: Manufacturers are innovating in packaging and product offerings to address consumer concerns about food cost inflation and waste.

Trends:

  • Rise of entertaining-focused products:  Retailers and manufacturers are offering more products designed for special occasions and gatherings.

  • Increased demand for snacking options: Consumers are seeking convenient, diverse, and healthy snack options.

  • Growth of portable breakfast solutions: Toaster-ready muffin tops, yogurt drinks, and other portable options are catering to the on-the-go breakfast trend.

  • Hispanic-branded products: Manufacturers are targeting younger, diverse generations with Hispanic-branded cheeses, meats, and desserts.

  • Innovation in packaging and product offerings: Brands are addressing inflation concerns with innovative packaging and pre-made meal options.

Consumer Motivation:

  • Convenience: Consumers want convenient and easy-to-prepare options for entertaining, snacking, and breakfast.

  • Variety: They seek diverse flavors and unique products to add excitement to their meals and snacks.

  • Value: Consumers are looking for affordable options due to concerns about inflation.

  • Health: Healthier snacking options and convenient breakfast choices are increasingly important.

Driving Forces:

  • Changing consumer lifestyles: Busy schedules and a desire for convenience are driving the demand for easy-to-prepare meal and snack solutions.

  • Increased interest in ethnic cuisines: Younger generations are more adventurous in their food choices and are open to trying new flavors and cuisines.

  • Inflation concerns: Consumers are seeking ways to save money on food without sacrificing quality or taste.

  • Health and wellness trends: The focus on health and wellness is driving demand for healthier snacking and breakfast options.

Target Audience:

  • Consumers who entertain: People who regularly host gatherings or special occasions are looking for convenient and delicious food options.

  • On-the-go consumers: Busy individuals who need quick and easy snacking and breakfast solutions.

  • Younger generations: Gen Z and millennials are driving the demand for diverse flavors, new products, and convenient options.

  • Budget-conscious shoppers: Consumers are seeking affordable options due to inflation concerns.

  • Health-conscious consumers: People who prioritize health and wellness are looking for healthier snacking and breakfast choices.

Conclusions:

  • The dairy, deli, and bakery categories are evolving to meet changing consumer needs and preferences.

  • Manufacturers are innovating to offer more convenient, diverse, and affordable options for entertaining, snacking, and breakfast.

  • Brands that cater to the specific needs of younger, diverse generations and address inflation concerns will be well-positioned for success.

Implications for Brands:

  • Focus on convenience: Develop products that are easy to prepare and consume on the go.

  • Offer variety: Expand product lines to include a diverse range of flavors and options.

  • Target younger generations: Tailor marketing and product development to appeal to the tastes and preferences of Gen Z and millennials.

  • Address inflation concerns: Offer value-driven options and innovative packaging to help consumers save money and reduce food waste.

  • Prioritize health: Develop healthier snacking and breakfast options to appeal to health-conscious consumers.

Implications for Society:

  • Increased convenience and variety: Consumers will have access to a wider range of convenient and diverse food options for entertaining, snacking, and breakfast.

  • More affordable options: Innovative packaging and product offerings will help consumers manage food costs and reduce waste.

  • Healthier eating habits: The availability of healthier snacking and breakfast options can contribute to improved dietary habits.

Big Trend:

The dairy, deli, and bakery categories are undergoing a transformation driven by changing consumer preferences, economic factors, and a focus on health and wellness. Brands that adapt to these trends and offer innovative solutions will thrive in this evolving landscape.

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