Consumer snacking trends: What micro markets need to know

As consumers have largely returned to their pre-pandemic lifestyles—heading into the office, hustling between work, school and home, etc.—the prevalence of purchasing snacks throughout the day has made its mark in foodservice settings, particularly in micro markets. Micro markets, often unstaffed, allow foodservice operators to provide convenient food options to consumers with minimal labor costs, making them a boon in today’s economy.

But stocking the shelves can feel tricky. With an array of fresh grab-and-go options as well as packaged options, it can be difficult to know what consumers want at any given time, so it’s crucial to look to snacking trends when choosing a product mix.

Snacking habits

According to Technomic’s 2022 Snacking Consumer Trend Report, 20% of consumers say they are snacking more frequently now than they did before March 2020, and 35% say they purchase snacks from convenience stores/mini-marts at least occasionally. As for where consumers are snacking, 55% say they are doing so while en route from one place to another; portability in snacks remains a key priority when choosing what they want to eat. Additionally, top reasons for snacking can inform product assortment, as well—37% say they snack because they’re hungry and it’s not yet time for a full meal, and 33% say they snack because they want to give themselves a treat. In other words, operators should offer a mix of both better-for-you and more indulgent options to ensure every consumer can find something they like.

As far as what consumers like more specifically, top traits in most-preferred snacks include snacks that are either energizing, high in protein, immunity-boosting, high in fiber or low-sugar. However, when consumers are looking for a snack, their top priority is flavor or taste, so it’s important to offer snacks that taste great as well as snacks that offer other benefits.

An optimal assortment

Campbell’s Foodservice meets plenty of consumers’ demands when choosing great tasting snacks. From salty snacks such as Goldfish® crackers, Cape Cod® chips and Snyder’s of Hanover® pretzels, to sweet snacks such as sandwich cookies from Lance®, plus savory and fulfilling portable soup options from Campbell’s and drinks from V8®, there’s an option for virtually every consumer. Each brand has proven itself in the vending market, making these options easy choices for micro markets. Maximum consumer satisfaction—combining great taste, convenience, a variety of options and trusted, familiar brands—is key to micro market success. To learn more about snack options from Campbell’s Foodservice, click here.