Stock These Items Now
Renee Pas • February 2017
C-store customers are still sticking to their New Year’s resolutions, so that means c-store owners should be selling on-trend, “better-for-you” products.
Offering healthy snacks and foods not only shows customers that you’re up-to-date on the latest products; it also shows you’re aware of their favorite items.
“People are interested in trying things that they believe to be better for them,” says Caryn Dewitt, a C-Buying group member and owner of McPeek’s Inc. in Royal Oak, MI. “For my store, energy-drink variations are solid sellers.”
And Dewitt regularly watches what might be moving into the mainstream.
Check out these trending segments, featuring products you should carry for the health-conscious crowd.
- Plant waters. Coconut water was one of the first, but now there’s even maple water. Consumer Reports says 2017 will bring beverages made from plants such as artichoke, cactus and cucumber, all deemed natural hydrators.
- Functional water. Yep, water again. The functional segment is expected to see high growth in 2017, credited to consumers’ increasing inclination to purchase energy-based beverages with added minerals, according to Allied Market Research.
- Power foods. Think veggie snacks, packaged seaweed snacks, and anything with beets and kale as an ingredient, according to Eating Well magazine. These snacks take the 100-calorie packaging idea to a different level, with more of an ingredient focus.
- Wider flavor profiles. Credit the foodie movement for the growing number of new flavors on the market. Famous TV chefs have generated a greater willingness among consumers to try new things. Among them: more spicy fare, with many getting a Sriracha-style twist. Packaged Facts says to watch for more unexpected flavors to hit the market, as consumers look for what’s new…a single flavor is no longer enough!
Remember: as products continue to become more adventurous, you may want to consider venturing outside the norm as well. Add new varieties to your shelves!
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