The excitement of the Big Game brings a golden opportunity for the produce department to shine. Game-day gatherings are all about good food and great company and, as grocery professionals, we have the chance to help consumers create memorable moments.
With thoughtful displays, smart merchandising and convenient solutions, you can turn game-day excitement into big wins for your store.
Convenience key for game-day shoppers
Consumers are looking for quick and easy solutions for game-day entertainment. Think beyond the basics – offer ready-to-go items that simplify preparation without sacrificing quality. Popular choices like fresh guacamole, spinach artichoke dip and stuffed bell peppers make it easy for shoppers to deliver crowd-pleasing appetizers. Providing value-added options like prepped veggies, dips and ready-to-serve snack trays can save customers time and increase their basket size.
A “build your own veggie tray” section can be a game-changer. Stock it with essentials like bagged broccoli, cauliflower, celery, snap peas, peeled carrots, mini sweet peppers, grape tomatoes, mini-cucumbers and veggie dips. By grouping these items, you make it easier for customers to grab everything they need in one spot.
Shippers, mods and display strategy
Impulse purchases are a key sales driver during special events, and display-ready cases and shippers are your best tools to capture attention.
Placing shippers in high-traffic areas, such as near the front of the store or in complementary departments, can boost cross-category sales. For example, a display of pistachios, guacamole and salsa mixes near the snack aisle encourages last-minute add-ons.
Upfront in the produce department, a standout avocado display featuring everything needed to make guacamole is a must. Include ripe avocados, tomatoes, onions, limes and jalapeños. If you carry ready-to-serve guacamole, such as a house-made or Crazy Fresh, incorporate it into the display for an upselling opportunity.
Cross-merchandising is another effective tactic. Consider grouping products like shredded lettuce, ground beef, shredded cheese, sour cream and taco seasoning to create a “taco in a bag” concept. Adding chips and prepped produce like diced tomatoes can make this idea even more convenient for customers.
Boost appeal with game-day-themed displays
Themed displays create excitement and draw customers into the produce department. Small touches like balloons, green turf tablecloths or even goalposts can create a festive atmosphere.
These props don’t have to be elaborate – just enough to catch the eye and signal that your store is the go-to destination for game-day essentials.
Value-added products that drive sales
Stocking value-added products is an easy way to increase sales and meet customer demand for convenience.
Fresh-made salsas, bean dips, taco dips and other ready-to-serve items are great options to feature for the Big Game. Party platters, pinwheel sandwiches and snack bowls are also popular choices for gatherings.
By prominently showcasing these products, you make it easier for customers to find what they need while positioning your store as a trusted source for game-day solutions.
Maximizing basket size, customer satisfaction
Game day is not just an event – it’s an opportunity to drive top-line sales and bottom-line profits.
Every item added to a customer’s basket contributes to your success. Even a modest increase in basket size – whether it’s 10 percent, 25 percent or more – can have a significant impact.
The key is planning. By working closely with your team to execute well-designed displays and merchandising strategies, you will set your store up for success. Collaborate with your suppliers to ensure you have the right inventory and maximize the potential of key products.
Helping win the Big Game
At Crazy Fresh, we’ve spent years working with retailers to develop solutions that not only delight consumers but also drive sales. Our goal is to help you succeed by providing fresh, high-quality products and merchandising ideas that elevate your department.
The Big Game is a time to celebrate teamwork – on the field and in the store. With the right planning, creativity and execution, your produce department can be the MVP of the season.
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