Information Resources Inc. notes that candy sales were up 5.1% for December 2009 over December 2008.
The upward surge in candy sales is expected to continue for the 2010 holiday season.
In fact, recent news reports have detailed the need for comfort foods in these sluggish economic times.
Comfort food for most Americans means candy. According to National Retail Federation, in 2009 consumers spent an average of $90 on candy and food items as gifts or Christmas holiday treats.
Follow a few simple tips for the upcoming Holiday season and your candy sales will be deliciously sweet.
Eyes Are The First Step In Taste
During the holiday season your emphasis should be on eye-catching gourmet candy displays. For instance, retro candies are big for 2010.
Use signage that reminds customers of way back when. Develop colorful or attention-grabbing displays that will highlight your gourmet chocolates or luscious confectionary candies.
Peak Their Interest With Samples
Another way to sell your candy is to give out samples. If you’ve ever shopped at Costco, you know that samples do equate into a sales or else they wouldn’t do it. This minimal investment promotion highlights your products and creates goodwill with your customers.
Pick three or four of your higher end candy items to sample out, such as almond toffee, cherry cordials, sugar free candies, whatever you feel your costumers will find delicious.
It cannot be stressed enough that the person handing out your candies must be knowledgeable about the product. Your staffers need to know the name of the product, what’s in the products, as well as the prices of the candies.
Candy Compliments Every Product
Cross promotion works very well during holiday seasons. Your store might offer a deal, such as: buy a select group of candies and get a free scented candle.
People love free things and will often make a purchase because they get an item free. They see this as an extra perceived value. (Tip: use slow moving or obsolete items as your free gift.)
Using items that are slow movers gives your customer a perceived value, while clearing your floor space so you can bring in new products. Plus, you’re leading the customers to your other lines of products.
If you use Facebook, Myspace or Twitter as part of your marketing, you need to be sure to let your social media friends know that your store now carries the most delectable fudge or that you’ll be offering free candy canes from noon until 2pm on Black Friday.
Tweet about your new line of saltwater taffy. Using social media sites is a free way to promote your shop and alert customers about your hot new products.
Wrapping Up Your Candy Strategy
Key points for Selling The Sweet Stuff this holiday season are:
- Signs that direct consumers to the products
- Giving samples and having knowledge of products
- Cross Promotion = Extra Perceived Value
- Use Of Social Media
If you’re in need of some new candy and confection vendors or you’re Continue reading “Selling The Sweet Stuff For The Holidays” »
