Many customers are looking for fast service, fresh ingredients, healthy alternatives and value pricing when choosing a foodservice solution. Cold cases are a perfect way to offer these choices, and Martin Bros. convenience store and retail team specialists have innovative ideas to help customers meet the grab-and-go cold case trend.
In a recently released “Sandwich Consumer Trend Report” published by Technomic, more than half of the polled respondents said they purchase grab-and-go prepared and wrapped sandwiches. That’s an impressive rise from 39% in 2010.
“This sandwich trend mirrors what we’re seeing with an overall cold case trend. Cold cases provide a great opportunity to merchandise the items that consumers are looking for on-the-go, so many convenience outlets are taking a look at cold case sales opportunities,” says Craig DeHoet, a Martin Bros. C-Store and Retail Sales and Marketing Consultant.
Premium Pricing
Studies done by Datassential show convenience store shoppers are willing to pay more to get the fresh, quality deli sandwiches, wraps and salads they want. When researchers showed price points for various items and asked consumers to state their likelihood to pay that amount, pay more or pay less, about one-third of them said that $5 was the right price for a sandwich, wrap or salad. Over 40% said they would be willing to pay more for an item they felt was fresh and good quality.
Something For Everyone
Studies done by Datassential show convenience store shoppers are willing to pay more to get the fresh, quality deli sandwiches, wraps and salads they want. When researchers showed price points for various items and asked consumers to state their likelihood to pay that amount, pay more or pay less, about one-third of them said that $5 was the right price for a sandwich, wrap or salad. Over 40% said they would be willing to pay more for an item they felt was fresh and good quality.
Something For Everyone
One thing to keep in mind when building a cold case is to try to provide choices to fit many different appetites. For those who already like healthier alternatives, offer items like sandwiches, wraps, salads, veggie cups, fruit cups, boiled eggs, yogurt parfaits and bottled water. For those who want more hearty options, offer meals packed in microwaveable disposable containers. Check out our convenience store recipes for more ideas to add to your case.
