MADISON, Wis. -- Fresh-perimeter shoppers are looking for higher-quality, fresh, and less-processed options for their snacking needs, creating opportunities for bakery, deli, dairy, foodservice and cheese departments to capture a larger share of consumer in-store purchases, according to What's in Store 2016, the annual trends research report published by the International Dairy-Deli-Bakery Association (IDDBA).
Other findings found in the book's Eating Trends section include:
- 56% of Americans snack three or more times a day, up from approximately 20% in the 1990s.
- Protein continues to be a top source of nutrition, with one-quarter of shoppers seeking protein information on product nutrition labeling.
- Sales of gluten-free foods grew almost 35% from 2009 to 2015, with future sales expected to exceed $2 billion by 2019.
- Trending food and cooking movements include ethnic fusion, Peruvian, fermentation and foraging.
"Fresh" continues to be an important food-buying consideration, especially among millennials. While all generations want information, millennials take a big-picture view when deciding what to buy; they love a good story that allows them to personally connect with a brand or product. They seek fresh, rather than processed foods; food made with natural ingredients is one of the top food drivers for them. "Instead of stopping off at Taco Time, I'll dip into the prepared section of my grocery store and grab lunch or a snack. I think it's healthier because it's fresh and not fried," said a millennial shopper that IDDBA interviewed for the Engaging the Evolving Shopper: Serving the New American Appetite report.
"A growing number of consumers have made snacking a part of their daily eating routine, presenting food retailers with new opportunities to connect with shoppers," said Eric Richard, education coordinator for IDDBA. "Fresh perimeter departments are ideal locations to showcase snacking options, given the product attributes shoppers seek, such as food that is fresh, high in protein, less-processed, and available in single-serve and on-the-go packaging."
Members help make our journalism possible. Become a CSP member today and unlock exclusive benefits, including unlimited access to all of our content. Sign up here.