Springing Into Summer

It’s summertime and the living is easy. Or, if it’s just as busy as the rest of the year for shoppers pressed by time and budget concerns, it’s at least made simpler at the supermarket deli, thanks to new products and seasonal promotions.

From now through back-to-school merchandising in August and September, consumers look to the in-store deli for meal solutions, whether it’s prepared foods for a picnic, graduation party or other summer event, or cool meal ideas on hot days (think sandwiches). A variety of new products, including both service counter items and packaged foods, are available to suit shoppers’ ever-sophisticated palates as well as their concurrent interest in foods that are convenient, budget-friendly and, frequently, healthier.

The importance of providing consumers with appealing products and meal ideas that fit their interests and lifestyles is underscored by findings from new studies (see “Coming Home” in this issue of Deli Decisions) showing that consumers are preparing more foods at home. As they look to save money and create easy, enjoyable meals for themselves and their families, shoppers can be drawn into the deli section as a one-stop meal occasion destination.