types of items that currently claim their attention. Susan Viamari, IRI’s editor of thought leadership, indicates four major currents in edible product innovation, starting with home-based/do-it-myself indulgence. “Consumers have become adept at fnding less expensive ways to treat themselves, and they will hold onto these skills even as the economy continues its slow upward march,” she notes, so items that enable shoppers to pamper themselves at little cost — a bottle of store-brand wine and a pint of gourmet gelato, say — will continue to resonate with shoppers. Next up is favor/texture excitement. According to Viamari, “Consumers … are looking for new favors/ textures that bring them experiences of the world. Marketers are investing to explore new ingredients/ combinations that bring excitement and experiences to everyday eating experiences.” By that standard, the recent mania for sriracha-favored everything wasn’t just a fuke. Also on the list are healthier-for-you items. “a large majority of consumers are working to eat healthier by consuming more of the ‘more desirable’ ingredients (e.g., fber, fruits/veggies, protein) and less of the ‘less desirable’ ingredients (e.g., fat, calories, trans fats),” explains Viamari. “New ingredients and new
technologies are allowing manufacturers to bring new benefts (e.g., beverages with more protein, veggie-infused beverages, cereal with more whole grains) without sacrifcing favor/texture/ experience.” Tat means we can expect more better-foryou item introductions seeking to duplicate the recent breakout success of kale chips. Finally, portable eating solutions and satiation continue to be high priorities for shoppers.” Consumers will continue to look for new ways to fuel up without slowing down,” afrms Viamari. “Innovation that makes it easier to be fuller for longer will continue to do well in the coming years.” Expect packaging to keep pace with consumer demands for portability, while more protein- and fber-rich oferings could serve to stave of hunger.
Nonfoods Influencers Some of the trends infuencing nonfoods product
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December 2014 | progressivegrocer.com |
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