THE ‘summer of sport’ could provide a nice boost to snack sales in pubs, providing outlets get their offer just right.
That’s the view of snack companies UBUK and Atlantic Foods, which advised licensees to give a little extra thought to their snack ranges ahead of the summer months.
Nick Stuart, commercial manager for UBUK, said that a good display is key to driving snacks sales. Quoting figures from Him Research, Stuart said 30% of all pub snacks purchases are made on the spur of the moment.
“Consumers act on impulse when stood at the bar and a clear display of snacks on offer will act as a prompt,” he said.
“Licensees can take advantage of products like McCoy’s or KP Nuts by displaying the full range on the back bar or by using merchandising aids, such as clip strips or pub cards.”
Stuart also recommended stocking the best selling brands in each snack category, in order to ensure that valuable display space is always occupied by products that sell.
On the hot snacks front Nigel Parkes, purchasing and marketing director for Atlantic Foods, said it pays to train staff on how they can promote the snacks menu.
“For example, get them to hand the snacks menu directly to the customer whilst telling them about the great range of freshly prepared snacks that you have to offer instead of just handing over their drink and asking them if they would like a bag of crisps or nuts.”
And Parkes reckons the upcoming sports events, including the Olympics, Wimbledon and Euro 2012, could create a particular demand for sharing platters, as friends gather in pubs to watch their favourite sports.
“It’s important to get your combo offering right by making sure it is all inclusive and caters for both red and white meat lovers, as well as fish fanatics and vegetarians,” said Parkes.
“A selection of half a dozen products should satisfy the needs of most crowds.
“And remember, combos don’t have to be savoury based.
“Why not think about offering a dessert platter too?”
