Stay in the snack business for a long time by making everything more sustainable, from the snacks all the way down to the manufacturing process.
The world loves snacks. A quick salty or sweet treat to tide them over until their next meal might be one of the greatest inventions. Snacks are great for child play dates, a quick lunch option for high executives, or even an energy boost after a vigorous workout.
In other words, snacks are extremely popular, meaning you need to find new ways to attract customers to your business. Start by making your snack business more sustainable.
Adjust the Ingredients
The ingredients are the first priority. The ingredients you use define whether the snack will be perishable or non-perishable. Most snacks are non-perishable—with the exception of fruit. However, there are some dried fruit snacks that are non-perishable.
Give sustainable sourcing a try and choose sustainably farmed ingredients. The farmers will consider more than just the economic impacts; they also consider the environmental and social impact of farming. Sustainable sourcing is a complicated process, so make sure you partner with a company with plenty of experience in this field.
Consider the Packaging
Packaging is the next big factor. Start with the pouching for the products. Flat-bottom box pouches have a lot of benefits, and sustainability is just the tip of the iceberg. You can also consider eco-friendly packaging when it comes to shipping and handling.
Corporations usually generate a lot of waste when they create and produce their products. Luckily, you can reuse some of the materials. For example, there are plant-based materials the snack business could use to pack their items and ship them out.
Introduce a New Snack
Diversify your menu and consider adding a few more sustainable snacks to the repertoire. Adding non-GMO or vegetarian snacks will generate more business for you. Customers are becoming more health conscience, and adding these snacks to the menu will appeal to their current priorities.
Remember that the process of creating these products is a little different than that of your other snacks. You’ll need to raise the animals differently and eliminate issues like antibiotics and hormones. GMO snacks also require diverse soil and special compounds. So while they make a great addition, there are some things you must keep in mind.
Ask the Customer
It always goes back to the customers. Aside from experts, everyday people sometimes have the best suggestions. They know what type of snacks they want to see more of and less of.
Conduct surveys and ask for their opinions. Host testing centers to have them sample some of the things you’re working on. Don’t be shy. You need their interest and happiness to keep your business afloat. Not every suggestion will be a gold mine, but you’re smart enough to find the real gems.
A sustainable snack business is a gift that keeps on giving. Don’t hesitate to make the changes you need to make to keep your business going.
