Consumers adapt snacking occasions to changing lifestyles

Study conducted by Technomic reveals the latest trends and data.

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Though Canadians snack frequently (averaging two snacks a day), consumption has remained relatively stable since 2014 according to Technomic's recently released 2016 Canadian Snacking Occasion Consumer Trend Report. But how consumers view snacks and the way they snack are evolving to meet the needs of a busy, modern lifestyle. They are more likely to consider anything to be a snack. This presents an opportunity for operators to market more items as snacks, which can help drive sales.

"Consumers are broadening their definition of snacks to better fit their needs," explains Kelly Weikel, director of consumer insights at Technomic. "Operators and suppliers should regularly evaluate their snack lineup to ensure that they are keeping up with shifts in snacking and are capitalizing on these opportunities."

Key takeaways from the report include:
- Coffee cafés are the top source of foodservice snacks; 69% of consumers purchase snacks from these locations
- Consumers seek more snack options at limited-service restaurants (LSRs); 43% of consumers call for more LSRs to offer snack items
- Bundled mix-and-match snack options could drive sales; 34% of consumers say they're likely to order these options at restaurants

Compiling findings from more than 1,000 consumers, as well as Technomic's MenuMonitor and Digital Resource Library, the comprehensive 2016 Canadian Snacking Occasion Consumer Trend Report serves as a guide for foodservice operators and suppliers to understand consumer attitudes toward snacking and to identify key areas of opportunity.

SOURCE Technomic