1. Growth of on the go snacking
Consumers around the world are breaking free from traditional mealtimes and leaning into snacking at different times of the day – especially while on-the-go. Drivers of the shift include changing work routines, evolving lifestyles, a craving for variety and convenience as well as a growing awareness of health and wellness. People are after flexible, on-the-go, and smaller-sized food options, making it harder to distinguish between breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Studies show that the afternoon and evening are the most popular dayparts for snacking1. Snack choices are based on a combination of factors, including affordability, better-for-you ingredients, and indulging cravings. According to Inside FMCG, snacking in 2024 will focus on energy, protein, and taste2.
Australians reported the most important factors in choosing a snack are taste, nutrition and price. But the pandemic has also led Australians to seek small moments of indulgence in their food snacking choices3.
Nearly 40% of Australians are snacking between meals during the day showcasing a fundamental shift in consumer eating habits away from traditional format of meals1.
On TikTok, the viral ‘Girl Dinner’ trend has showcased the wide variety of snacks that women eat as ‘meals’. Some brands are responding by expanding their range of sides or offering a ‘side-only’ menu.4
Pro tip: Highlight your side options for those looking for a snacky-dinner, prioritizing common staples and feel-good foods.
Sources: 1. Euromonitor International’s Voice of the Consumer: Lifestyles Survey 2022. The Snacking Revolution in Australia. | 2. https://www.euromonitor.com/article/the-snacking-revolution-in-Australia https://www.foodnavigator-usa.com/Article/2023/04/14/younger-consumers-boost-snacking-occasions-as-trading-down-increases-circana-finds | 3. Inside FMCG. Dec, 2023. Food trends that will shape the snacking industry in 2024. https://insidefmcg.com.au/2023/12/21/food-trends-that-will-shape-the-snacking-industry-in-2024/#:~:text=According%20to%20the%20data%2C%20snacking,time%20(80%20per%20cent). | 4. https://edition.cnn.com/2023/07/20/business/popeyes-girl-dinner/index.html
Make it portable: Provide options in a portable format, including options that are cupholder-friendly or mini-portions of favourites.
Embrace the hype: Snacks have evolved into status symbols, especially for younger consumers. Tap into this trend by considering exciting collaborations with brands, creators, or influencers to craft limited-edition snacks that resonate with lifestyle-driven communities.
Indulge on the whim: Create eye-catching displays, position snacks strategically in stores and offer bite-sized samples as customers wait in line or at the entrance. Limited-time offers can also create a sense of urgency, encouraging customers to act quickly to avoid FOMO (fear of missing out).
Curate snack discoveries: Snack discoveries inspire consumers to explore new foods, so don’t be afraid of thinking out of the box. Be creative with flavour combinations and culinary fusions to ignite curiosity and encourage customers to venture into the unfamiliar.
Champion healthier snacks: Highlight the nutritional value or the health benefits that these snacks may have to cater to health-conscious individuals. Incorporate high-protein snacks that provide long-lasting energy and satiety.
Cater to cravings: Craft an enticing selection of snacks that prioritize indulgence and satisfy those seeking delightful, rich, and flavourful treats. These offerings are designed to provide a sensory experience that brings joy and gratification, making your establishment a go-to destination for those looking to indulge their taste buds.
Food insight: Dipping sauces and toppings can allow consumers to customize their snacks and easily try new flavour combinations in snack-size portions. Sides – from mac and cheese to hot pockets – also make for easy and convenient snacks.
Beverage insight: The most important feature of a beverage snack is a thick texture. Add in fruit and food pieces, seeds, and grains such as oats to create a satisfying and filling drink. Frozen or dessert-style beverages can be both satisfying and filling.
