Investing in technology and being digitally savvy is more important today than ever before, especially when it comes to communicating with c-store retailers of all sizes. Retailers are often looking for the easiest way to access important product information that will allow them to have a competitive edge and better interact with c-store customers. This is where confectionery manufacturers are playing an important role, offering time-saving tools that can lead to increased product speed to shelf for retailers.
Invest in digital technology
According to NACS State of the Industry data, 2018 marked the 16th straight year of record in-store sales for U.S. convenience stores. That year, sales increased 2.2%to $242.2 billion. Since shoppers spend less than three minutes inside c-stores, it’s important that retailers have the latest and most sought-after snacking products available for their consumers in-store in order to stay relevant and top-of-mind in the eyes of the shoppers. To achieve this, online technology has never been more important.
In 2018, Hershey’s Category Insights Management Team created an online resource called Hershey Solutions to assist c-store retailers with important shopper data and merchandising strategies. This year, the online portal added a new way for c-store decision makers to quickly capitalize on new product launches and shopper trends – the ability to place orders. Having this type of capability from confectionery manufacturers will continue to help c-stores drive trips, build baskets and maximize sales and profits.
Spur engagement
Digital technology is not only important for c-store retailers but for their consumers as well. Whether it’s offering shoppers a way to place a food order online and pick it up, or a digital ad targeting a shopper at the right time that spurs engagement, digital technology is allowing c-store retailers to have more touchpoints with their consumers, helping them unlock more in-store sales growth. The digital experience continues to evolve, and investing in the latest capabilities can help set retailers apart as they look to uncover solutions to drive trip frequency and sales among shoppers.
Understanding shopper insights and consumer digital behavior can be overwhelming, which is why Hershey Solutions is available to help 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The online portal is a one-step resource for data, merchandising tools, new product information, and retailer rewards designed to help c-stores achieve category success. Visit HersheySolutions.com to discover the latest product releases, download optimized planograms, tap into channel insights and order new products.
This post is sponsored by The Hershey Company