Football season is upon us, which means Sunday afternoon parties, Thursday tailgating and more. According to consumer research firm Mintel, half of Americans consider themselves football fans, making it the most popular sport in the U.S. What’s more, nearly two-thirds of fans say eating and drinking is a big part of watching the game. As a Sales Advisor, you’re in the ideal position to capitalize on this trend and help shoppers take game-day fare up a notch.
One of the best ways to reel football fans in from the start is to bring the sports theme to your cart set-up and display. If you’re sampling products that feature special packaging, contests or sweepstakes related to the game, be sure those graphics are front and center. Create a large stack or pyramid of product on your cart. Or display them in a way that features the local team’s colors, if you can.
Go for the extra point with salty snack ideas! According to Mintel, 68 percent of fans choose them over the sweet stuff when watching sports.
Also play up ideas for game-day snacks using your products. Suggest making an amazing creamy dip out of the Greek yogurt you’re sampling, or turning frozen meatballs into an irresistible (and easy) appetizer by throwing them in the slow cooker with equal parts grape jelly and chili sauce. Encourage shoppers to think outside the beer can, too. Juices, sparkling waters and instant drink mixes can all make good cocktail starters—or serve as welcome non-alcoholic options.
Don’t worry if you don’t know a lot about football. Simply playing up on the sport can open the door for shopper interaction—and the opportunity for a sale.