Some companies bring a great product to market, and other companies bring an entire toolkit: a holistic program of advantages, benefits, insights, and vision. Litehouse rises amongst competitors for this more expansive strategy on product development and market penetration, shining a light on the full potential of customer relationships.
As we look to fall and the range of possibilities at the forefront of food, Krystle Turnbull, Product Manager, joins me to highlight such advantageous items and how retail partners can make the most of the season, consumer buying behaviors, and more.
“This time of year, there are so many snacking opportunities, from tailgating and Halloween to Friendsgiving, Thanksgiving, and beyond, and there’s a Litehouse product for each occasion,” Krystle shares. “Three of my favorites are our Litehouse Pumpkin Spice Caramel Dip, Litehouse Dips & Spreads, and Litehouse Simply Artisan Gorgonzola, Blue Cheese, and Feta cheese. Each product line comes with its own set of unique benefits and promotional opportunities.”
Let's start by taking a deeper look at the possibilities of Litehouse’s Pumpkin Spice Caramel Dip. Historically, caramel sales peak during the months of October and November, and since Pumpkin Spice has become the fall flavor, it made sense to combine these beloved flavors and appeal to caramel lovers and pumpkin spice enthusiasts alike.
“Litehouse Pumpkin Spice Caramel Dip is the epitome of fall, with subtle hints of pumpkin and spices like cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice married with delightfully smooth caramel. This versatile dip adds a dose of festive flavor to sweet treats; it’s perfect for dipping apples and pretzels or drizzling over pie, ice cream, and other desserts,” Krystle observes. “It’s also great for baking, and a delicious addition to coffee, warm apple cider, and seasonal cocktails.”
Cross-promotions? Yes, of course! By selling Litehouse Pumpkin Spice Caramel Dip near apples and fruit in the produce department, or with pretzel crisps in the deli department, retailers can create snacking inspiration for shoppers to increase basket size and sales.
Digging next into Litehouse Dips & Spreads, fall is all about football season and tailgating, and this line is the perfect match for game day snacks like wings or chicken tenders, veggie trays, chips, pizza, and more. The veggie dips are available in five savory flavors including Avocado Ranch, Homestyle Ranch, Southwest Ranch, Dilly Dip, and Spinach Parmesan—all launched earlier this year.
“Industry data shows that 69 percent of consumers use sour cream-based and creamy-based dips as snacks,” Krystle says. “These insights, combined with flavor trends and strong sales for Litehouse dressing flavors like Avocado Ranch and Homestyle Ranch, led to the development of the line of flavor-forward dips and spreads.”
Now is a great time to cross-merchandise alongside other tailgating staples like chips, crackers, cut veggies, and even freshly baked bread or pita chips.
And, last, but definitely not least, Litehouse’s award-winning Simply Artisan Cheese is handcrafted and aged a minimum of 100 days. The company’s Blue Cheese and Gorgonzola center cuts are perfect for holiday entertaining and its Feta, Blue Cheese, and Gorgonzola crumbles are great for salads and charcuterie boards.
“To maximize sales, we suggest that retailers merchandise the products near cold cuts, olives, deli crackers, and other snacking staples. Historically, sales of Litehouse Simply Artisan products increase 20–30 percent on average during the holiday season,” Krystle tells me.
Across the board, consumers are looking for versatility and increased usage occasions while the convenience trend continues to drive CPG innovation. With the holiday season upon us, Litehouse products achieve such solutions more than ever.
“As a 100 percent employee-owned company, we are committed to excellence and accountability. We take pride in our products and relationships with our customers, and we hold ourselves to the highest quality, integrity, and consistent standards,” Krystle confirms. “We’re always looking for new and exciting ways to help our retailers succeed, so whether that’s through in-store promotions or seasonal campaigns, we’re constantly exploring opportunities that positively impact the bottom line.”
Such a dynamic time of year calls for dynamic solutions, and Litehouse is meeting retailers and consumers where they are: in the search for inspiration and flavor.