In our latest shopper survey on seasonal food items, we asked shoppers about their preferences on seasonal food items, inquiring about everything from how they find out about them to where they usually buy them. Ready to unwrap 2024’s tastiest insights on seasonal foods? Let’s dive in!
Seasonal Spending: Insights on Shopping for Seasonal Foods in 2024
The change of the seasons always brings a delicious mix of limited-edition, seasonally-inspired products to the shelf, and shoppers are here for it. In fact, 28% of shoppers said they pick up seasonal food items for every season or holiday! When asked what season they buy the most seasonal food items during, the winner was winter; 38% of shoppers especially love to indulge in those special holiday flavors.
But not everyone plans ahead—35% of consumers told us they’re spontaneous with their seasonal buys, scooping up those festive finds as soon as they spot them. Meanwhile, 23% of eager beaver shoppers say they buy these products as soon as they become available!
So, where’s all this seasonal shopping happening? Over half of shoppers (51%) say they’re purchasing these seasonal food items at their nearest grocery store. Of the remaining 49%, half of those shoppers (25%) are heading to the next top stop: Walmart.
Flavors They Favor: Shoppers’ Preferences on Seasonal Food Items
With so many seasonal delights to choose from, how do shoppers decide what to toss in their cart? Almost half of shoppers (47%) are influenced to try something new when they see the product in-store. Don’t underestimate the power of a festive endcap! Other shoppers can’t resist a sweet deal, with 24% of shoppers reporting special deals and promotions as their greatest influence in picking up a new product.
When it comes to what kind of seasonal food items they purchase the most, dessert takes the cake (literally!), with 30% of shoppers saying this is their top category. Candy (23%) comes in at a close second!
Tasty Tidbits: Insight On Shopper Behavior with Seasonal Food Items
Though word of mouth, online ads, and social media sometimes play a role, the overwhelming majority of shoppers (62%) discover new seasonal items from in-store displays or promotions. Straight from the shelf to the cart!
And when it comes to stocking up, most shoppers have serious FOMO! Nearly three quarters of shoppers (74%) say they’re either likely, somewhat likely, or very likely to stock up on seasonal items if they know they won’t be available after a certain time.
Engage Seasonal Shoppers with Breaktime Media
For more insights and tips for engaging shoppers as they look forward to the arrival of new seasonal food items, check out the full infographic below!