With spring and summer fast-approaching, we soon will see melting snow give way to patios anxiously waiting to open up once again. Warmer weather revitalizes our lazy taste buds and rejuvenates our interest in healthy eating. This means eating more snacks and salads, and adding a little creativity to our meals.
Results from recent studies by Leger Marketing and Erickson Research show that Canadians are continuing to consume peanuts and peanut products. The number of households that indicated heavy peanut butter consumption has risen from 75 per cent to 80 per cent over the past year. Ninety-four per cent of Canadian households consume peanut butter, while a whopping 80 per cent eat peanut butter at least once per week or more. Also, 95 per cent of households eat peanuts and 61 per cent eat them at least once a week.
Read below for more statistics on how Canadians like to consume peanuts and peanut butter:
- • 61 per cent of Canadians regularly snack on peanuts, making them the second most preferred snack food, after chips
- • 84 per cent of Canadians believe that peanuts are good for parties and special occasions
- • 67 per cent of Canadians eat peanut butter spread on bread, toast or baked snacks (including crackers, bagels, English muffins, etc.)
- • 71 per cent of Canadians believe that peanut butter is a good ingredient in baking
Knowing how popular peanuts and peanut butter are in Canadian households, here are a couple of strategies to help maximize sales throughout the year.
- • Strategic placement of peanuts and peanut butter: Place peanuts with chips or peanut butter in the baking aisle to inspire purchase. During the major holidays, bring peanuts out to the front of the store along with other healthy snacks, as a reminder to consumers that peanuts are great for entertaining.
- • Sample PB&J sandwiches: Sampling is always the best way to attract customers that are looking for snack and meal ideas. Try sampling a unique PB&J sandwich by the bread, peanut butter and jam aisle, along with a bundled promotion. For example, sample peanut butter, jam and banana tortilla wrap, and offer special promotions for customers who buy peanut butter and jam products.
Source: Leger Marketing (2013 Research) and Erickson (2014 Research)