The COVID-19 pandemic left an indelible mark on the food industry, particularly within the realm of convenience stores’ snack offerings. However, as the pandemic’s grip loosens, it becomes imperative for convenience store proprietors to discern the returning pre-pandemic trends and anticipate how their patrons might revert to those habits. One such burgeoning trend is the surge in the demand for meat snacks, a phenomenon harmonious with the pre-pandemic behaviors towards choosing healthier dietary choices featuring protein-rich, low-sugar options.
Why are snacking trends so important for C-store success?
Why are snacking trends so important for C-store success?According to the National Association of Convenience Stores (NACS), snacks reign supreme as one of the most lucrative and profit-yielding categories in convenience stores, surpassing even fuel, tobacco, or lottery items in profit margins. Meat snacks, in particular, have experienced a surge in popularity. Before COVID lockdowns in 2020, meat snacks were on an incredible trajectory, with sales growth of 7.2%. As the pandemic set in, purchasing behaviors changed as consumers leaned towards bulk purchases and less healthy choices (likely to make themselves feel better while stuck at home.) However, this upward trend for meat snacks is predicted to return as consumers return to pre-pandemic behaviors, with a steady compound annual growth rate of 6.5% through 2028.
Why Meat Snacks?
Meat snacks are an enticing option for consumers seeking protein-rich, low-sugar sustenance. Examples of meat snacks encompass beef jerky, meat sticks, and meat bars, and presenting an array of flavors and brands can significantly enhance sales. NielsenIQ data indicates that in 2017, a substantial 30% of global meat snack introductions were marketed with health-centric attributes. For certain consumers, meat snacks represent a more natural alternative to powdered supplements and bars, particularly those adhering to dietary plans such as paleo, which prioritize protein-rich, low-sugar, and low-carb options. Simply put, many people feel eating a high-protein meat snack will satiate their hunger in a healthy way without the negative after-effects that high-carb or high-sugar snacks can have.
The USDA reports that the average beef stick contains 6.1 grams of protein per 1 oz. per serving–about 13% of the recommended dietary allowance for women or about 11% for men.
Consumers feel meat snacks are better mid-meal choices with health benefits such as:
- Feeling full longer
- Increasing muscle mass
- Building bone density
- Lowering food cravings
- Boosting metabolism
Notably, the meat snacks subcategory commands the lion’s share of sales within the overall snack category, contributing to a substantial 57.2% of snack category sales and boasting an impressive second-highest gross margin among all subcategories, registering at 45.60% (as per the NACS SOI Report of 2021 Data). These items can be highly profitable for your C-store by carrying a good selection and promoting sales.
Jack Link’s, a trailblazer in the meat snacks sector, is witnessing these shifts back to pre-pandemic behaviors. Their leadership reported that consumer preferences have evolved, with smaller-sized jerky bags (ranging from 2 to 4 ounces) gaining prominence. At the same time, the growth of meat sticks has been driven primarily by single sticks.
How are you re-assessing your strategies to prepare for the return of pre-pandemic behaviors in your C-store?
The upswing in meat snacks’ popularity within convenience stores harmonizes seamlessly with the pre-COVID trajectory towards healthier eating habits, marked by an inclination towards protein-rich, low-sugar snacks. Convenience store owners and managers like you can leverage this trend by diversifying their meat snack offerings, capturing a broader customer base, and bolstering profit margins. At H&S Energy Group, we work closely with our C-store clients to help them build a profitable inventory and develop sales strategies by understanding market conditions like consumers returning to pre-pandemic behaviors. Contact us today to learn more about how we can get your C-stores on the fast track to success.