Nourishing Profits: The Strategic Role of Gourmet Foods & Gifts
The importance of a well-rounded product assortment cannot be overstated. While it's essential to offer a diverse range of goods, the strategic inclusion of consumable products can prove to be a game-changer for retailers. From delectable food items and aromatic candles to indulgent body care products, these consumables not only enhance the shopping experience but also foster customer loyalty and drive sustained sales.
Defining Consumable Products
Consumable products encompass a wide array of items that are intended for regular use, depletion, and replacement. In retail, this category includes, but is not limited to, delicious food items that tantalize taste buds, soothing candles that create ambiance, and luxurious body care products that pamper the senses.
“Consumables are always a sought-after category for retailers because when there is a product that people love and it is used frequently, those loyalists keep coming back for more! When the retailers become the place to go for what their customers love, this leads to repeat business for both personal use and gifting. Consumable products are a win-win for all involved.”
- Lisa Lewis, Regional Sales Manager at Stonewall Kitchen Family of Brands
The Role of Consumables in Your Assortment
Enhancing the Shopping Experience
Consumable products cater to fundamental human needs - be it satisfying hunger with artisanal snacks, creating a cozy atmosphere with scented candles, or nurturing the body with high-quality skincare. The allure of these products lies not only in their functionality but also in the experience they offer. Shoppers are drawn to these sensory delights and incorporating such products enriches the overall shopping journey.
Building Repeat Customers and Loyalty
The consumable nature of these products inherently leads to repeat purchases. Once customers find a favorite snack, signature candle scent, or trusted body care brand, they are more likely to return regularly. This loyalty not only secures consistent sales but also transforms one-time shoppers into brand advocates.
“When customers learn that your shop is the place to go for the everyday consumable products, they are more apt to then go to that same destination when looking for like products when gifting for the holidays.”
- Lisa Lewis
Driving Sales and Revenue
Beyond fostering loyalty, consumable products contribute significantly to a retailer's bottom line. “Strategically stocking consumable products can directly influence a retailer's overall revenue and profitability," said Andy Bjork, Chief Sales Officer at Ivystone. The continuous need for replenishment ensures a reliable revenue stream. The cyclical nature of these products makes them a lucrative addition to any retail assortment.
Tip:
If you have a POS system - take advantage of it and track your consumable lines every week or two for out of stocks. Or do it the old-fashioned way and train your staff on what the best-sellers are. When you are down to the last 2-3, it is time to reorder! Trusted sales reps can help establish healthy reorder patterns and methods – consider giving them access to your POS data or having them assist you for occasional physical counts.
Featured Retailers
Discover the essence of consumable allure with our spotlight on Red Door Mercantile, The Sample House, and The View Café & Gifts – three retailers with a keen understanding of the role consumable products play in cultivating customer loyalty.
Red Door Mercantile
Located: Neenah, WI
@reddoormercantile
Red Door Mercantile stands as a contemporary haven, a modern-day General Store, and Urban Emporium that captivates customers with its unique offerings and an ambiance brimming with joy. Catering to a diverse range of tastes and ages, they specialize in providing gifts and home décor that transcend the ordinary. Step into an experiential boutique with eight distinct areas, each curated to evoke textures, memories, and inspiration. Red Door Mercantile weaves a narrative of visual intrigue, offering experiences from the nostalgic to the inspiring. Indulge in gourmet delights, including notable brands such as Savannah Bee, Bourbon Barrel Foods, and Finch+Fennel by Creative Co-Op.
“Tina does a great job of integrating complementary brands like Corkcicle and Hester & Cook into her food displays"
- said her local Ivystone Sales Rep.
The Sample House
Located: Dallas, TX
@samplehousetx
Founded in 1958 by Foster and Nancy Poole on Routh Street in Dallas, Texas, the Sample House boasts a rich legacy spanning over sixty years and expanding to seven stores across the greater Dallas area. Their family's active involvement underscores their commitment to the business. Foster's enduring vision and charisma continue to shape every aspect of the company. With a belief that retail holds the power to craft lasting memories, the Sample House rejects the notion that such experiences can be automated with the click of a button.
From its inception, their innovative model has been ahead of its time, placing emphasis on personalized experiences and top-notch customer service. The Sample House excels in the art of cross-merchandising, skillfully weaving product narratives to tell compelling stories. Notably, they curate thematic displays, like Father's Day for example, featuring brands such as Bourbon Barrel Foods and Corkcicle.
We had the pleasure of connecting with Ellen Aiken from The Sample House, gaining valuable insights into how consumable products play a pivotal role in enhancing their business. The Sample House has successfully adapted to customer preferences over the years, specializing in gift items, including candles, home decor, books, jewelry, gift wrap, consumables, and body care.
Q: Have you noticed any specific trends or preferences among your customers regarding consumable products?
Our customers are always on the lookout for new and exciting items. We rely on our reps to keep our merchandise in line with current trends, ensuring that we offer the latest flavors, colors, and styles. To stay fresh, we may carry super trendy items for a limited time, avoiding the risk of appearing outdated. Additionally, we strategically pair trendy products with food and drink items, including barware, cookbooks, charcuterie/serving platters, and stylish cocktail napkins.
Q: What considerations do you consider regarding storage, shelf space, and product rotation?
We aim to get our products onto the sales floor as quickly as possible, and our designer rotates merchandise weekly. Using vignettes throughout the store, we tell stories to showcase the products, resulting in a dynamic and ever-changing store layout. This approach ensures that our stores look different each week, allowing all products to stand out.
Q: How has offering consumable products enhanced the overall shopping experience in your store?
Many of our customers visit weekly or make impromptu stops for last-minute gifts. The inclusion of ready-to-serve consumable products, such as El Arroyo or Stonewall Kitchen makes them perfect for entertaining or gifting. Additionally, products like Bourbon Barrel cater to outdoor grilling enthusiasts, contributing to an enriched overall shopping experience.
The View Café & Gifts
Located: Buena Vista, Colorado
@viewcafeandgifts
The View Café & Gifts is a cozy coffee shop nestled within a delightful gift store! It’s the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a delicious coffee, tea, or smoothie while browsing a unique selection of gifts; helping customers celebrate the big and small moments in life!
“Best gift shop in town. Outstanding selection of unique gifts, cards, clothing, etc. You can also get coffee and relax by the fire."
- Customer Review
Incorporating consumable products into your retail strategy is a wise investment that goes beyond the immediate transaction. It's about creating an experience, meeting essential needs, and building lasting relationships with customers. As retailers, embracing the power of consumables can transform your store into a destination where shoppers not only find what they need but also discover what they love – fostering loyalty and driving sustained sales for years to come.
