Easter falls on April 20th this year, which means the pressure is on over the next couple of weeks for consumers to fill their shopping baskets with Easter basket treats and meal essentials. According to the National Retail Federation (NRF), over 83 percent of consumers celebrate Easter and each of them spends about $145 on the holiday—making it a prime focus for Sales Advisors’ selling pitches this month.
From intimate brunches to large family potluck dinners, the NRF reports that much of consumers’ Easter celebration budgets go toward their main meal. Today, many families incorporate their own cultural traditions into the holiday, which opens up a wide variety of food options—and opportunities to showcase your products. For example, egg rolls, perogies or other frozen appetizers can be a great (and easy!) addition to almost any menu. And new glazes, marinades or sauces can put a whole new spin on the traditional Easter ham or lamb. Offering ideas like these, along with recipes if possible, can be a great way to promote your items this month.
Of course, many consumers are also looking to the fun side of Easter—filling baskets for their children, grandchildren and other loved ones. Candy is a natural fit, but other sweets can work, too. For example, if you’re sampling something like a cake or cookie mix, suggest shoppers include a package in their loved one’s Easter basket along with a promise for some fun one-on-one time spent making their very own unique treat. Many shoppers will also appreciate healthier ideas, such as granola bars, nuts, fruit snacks or juice boxes—all of which can also round out the next week’s lunchbox.
Last but not least, don’t forget about hostess gifts. Flowers, wine, baked goods and even plastic storage containers (for all those leftovers!), can all be welcome gifts. Use your creativity to think beyond the traditional and you’ll be filling shopping baskets—and Easter baskets—in no time.