Specialty Food Magazine is the leading publication for retailers, manufacturers and foodservice professionals in the specialty food trade. It provides news, trends and business-building insights that help readers keep their businesses competitive.
Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/567722
WHO HE IS KEY OPPORTUNITIES TODAY'S SPECIALTY FOOD CONSUMER ❘ C3 WHO BUYS SPECIALTY FOODS? Young consumers are the core specialty food customer. Those ages 25–44 are the most likely purchas- ers of these products, followed closely by the 18–24 age group. Millennials (ages 21–38) comprise the lion's share of these age groups and is a critical generation to specialty food producers and retailers due to its size and level of engagement. However, as this group ages, there are shifts to purchasing habits and needs that will impact the future of specialty foods. Consumers 45 and older have a lower likelihood of purchase, though generation X and baby boomers report high usage of specialty foods for snacking or meal preparation. For the first time since this research began in 2005, men rated higher than women as more likely to purchase specialty foods. • Specialty food producers and retailers have new marketing opportunities with men. • Millennials reflect the core specialty consumer, but the trade needs to track their changing needs as they age. • Product development opportunities around health and convenience are growing as gen Xers and boomers age. Source: Mintel Energy BAR pasta Healthy Choice Ready in 5 min. MEN YOGURT $75,000 OR MORE EAST WEST AGE: 25–44 GENDER: MALE RACE: HISPANIC household income coast coast OR Chocolate TODAY'S SPECIALTY FOOD CONSUMER KEY DEMOGRAPHICS WHAT HE EARNS WHERE HE LIVES WHAT HE BUYS