Consumers are turning away from traditional meals in favor of snacking to provide nutrition and to satisfy hunger.
As snacking continues to grow to be a part of the American lifestyle, the notion of eating three meals a day is fading into the background. According to the new Top Trends in Snacks, Confectionery, and Desserts; Exploring consumer innovation trends in key categories report has revealed that, for some consumers, as time constraints make it difficult to consume substantial meals, snacks provide a necessary energy or nutritional boost. The report also revealed that some consumers turn to snacking for an emotional boost during stressful times or when an indulgence or treat is needed.
Other snacking scenarios are characterized not by particular functional or psychological needs, but are rather dictated by occasion, such as watching a movie, attending a sporting event or socializing with friends. Essentially, more consumers are turning to snacks to fulfill a wider range of needs and occasions, presenting opportunities for brands across the health-indulgence and sweet-savory spectrums.
It is particularly crucial to understand the snacking motivations of younger consumers. Not only are they more frequent snackers, but their purchase behaviors and preferences will strongly influence other consumers, and also subsequent generations, as they pass on these behaviors to their children. Snacking satisfies a range of rational and emotional needs. As a whole, snacking is primarily driven by the desire to treat oneself and boost energy levels. However, such motivations are nuanced, particularly when analyzed by age cohort.
Top Trends in Snacks, Confectionery, and Desserts 2016 market research report explores key attitudinal and behavioral insights shaping opportunities in savory snacks, confectionery and desserts and sweet snacks. It identifies seven of the most influential trends that brands should leverage in order to differentiate themselves in an increasingly competitive market.
The report allows you to identify the top seven trends driving the snacks, confectionery, and desserts sectors; gain insight into the key consumer segments that are most likely to be a key focus for innovation; put innovative products into context by connecting them to specific consumer trends and needs; and get insight and inspiration for innovation programs and new product development.
