Consumables: The Secret Ingredient for Year-Round Sales
by Stephanie S.
Ivystone Marketing Manager
When it comes to driving repeat visits, inspiring gifting, and keeping your shelves moving, consumables are the secret ingredient every retailer needs.
From food and beverages to candles, household goods, and self-care items, these products aren’t just functional—they keep customers coming back for more, all year long.
Consumables are made to be used, replenished, and enjoyed regularly. This repeat-use nature is what makes them so powerful for retailers. Whether it’s a gourmet snack that disappears in days, a fragrant candle, or a luxurious hand cream, these products naturally draw shoppers back time and again. By curating a thoughtful assortment, your store becomes a go-to destination for both everyday indulgences and thoughtful gifts.
The Star That Brings Everyone Together
Consumables that center around entertaining—especially food—are a major draw for shoppers, particularly as we head into fall and the holiday season. In 2025, larger gatherings are making a comeback, with hosts expecting an average of nine attendees for Thanksgiving. Retailers can tap into this trend by offering products that help customers create memorable experiences at home.
Stocking a variety of food items that are both giftable and versatile gives shoppers the tools they need to host, share, and celebrate. Cross-merchandising—such as pairing gourmet snacks with kitchen tools or sauces with serving dishes—encourages additional purchases and boosts overall basket size, turning your store into a go-to destination for both everyday indulgences and special occasions.
Beyond Food: Consumables That Delight
While food often leads the way, other consumable categories are equally important for driving loyalty and giftable options:
Candles That Spark Joy
Scented candles appeal to the senses, create ambiance, and are perfect for gifting year-round. Seasonal scents and unique vessels keep displays fresh and engaging.
Household Essentials That Keep Customers Coming Back
Practical items like cleaning products or kitchen tools are frequently replenished, making them both useful gifts and repeat-purchase items. They also pair well with seasonal or entertaining-focused displays.
Self-Care Luxuries for Every Occasion
Products such as lotions, bath salts, soaps, and wellness items offer everyday indulgence. Accessible price points make them attractive for personal use and gifting, encouraging shoppers to return to restock favorites.
Display Magic: Make Your Consumables Shine
Think of consumables as a mini-department within your store. Displays with height, backdrops, and layered textures draw shoppers in. Rotating seasonal products, highlighting gift-ready bundles, and pairing complementary items can spark inspiration and boost sales. Examples include:
- Baking mixes paired with festive utensils and aprons
- Cocktail mixes displayed with barware and napkins
- Scented candles showcased alongside home décor accents
Thoughtful presentation doesn’t just look good—it drives results.
Get Shoppers Excited: Promote and Engage
A strong display is only the beginning. Social media, live demos, in-store tastings, and holiday-themed events let customers experience your products firsthand. Sharing recipes, gifting ideas, or entertaining tips shows how consumables enhance celebrations, gatherings, and everyday moments. Engaging shoppers this way keeps your store top-of-mind and encourages both immediate and repeat visits.
Get 40 Fall & Holiday Event Ideas
Consumables Keep Customers Coming Back
Consumables aren’t just products—they’re experiences, gifts, and reasons for customers to return. Food may be the star during Q4 entertaining, but candles, household essentials, and self-care items ensure your store thrives year-round. Thoughtful curation, creative merchandising, and proactive promotion turn consumables into a cornerstone of your business, delighting customers and keeping sales flowing across every season.
