CHICAGO, IL
Snacks have definitely been trending lately. A newly published Technomic study reveals that more than half of today’s consumers (51 percent) eat snacks at least twice a day, compared to the 48% who said the same in 2012. Similarly, 31 percent said they snack more frequently than they were two years ago. There may be a good chance you’re eating a snack right now!
According to the report, a wider range of foods and beverages are now considered “snacks,” encouraging retailers and convenience stores to compete with restaurants to meet the demand. Interestingly, more and more consumers tend to gravitate toward the more healthier snacks, even though candy represents 71% of consumers. Nuts are right behind with 62%, crackers at 59%, fresh fruit at 58%, and cheese/string cheese at 50%.
“Snacking occasions represent a growth channel for restaurant operators,” said Darren Tristano, Executive Vice President of Technomic, Inc. “The retail market is aggressively promoting snacks, but there’s plenty of room for restaurants to expand their snack programs and grab share. By providing more innovative, healthy and easily portable snacks, and boosting variety, restaurants can position themselves to increase incremental traffic and sales – particularly among a young customer base.”
Other interesting findings from the report include:
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Snacking Habits: Consumers eat snacks as meals and in between meals. Nearly half (49 percent) of consumers eat snacks between meals, while 45% replace one of two daily meals with a snack.
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Restaurant Trends: About half (45 percent) of the consumers surveyed say the order snacks from the dollar or value menu at a restaurant.
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Health: 50 percent of the consumers surveyed say that healthfulness is very important when choosing a snack.
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Portability: 60 percent of consumers say portability is crucial when choosing a snack, compared to 55 percent in 2012.
Technomic
