Spring is finally here, which means summer is just around the corner. And with warmer weather comes everyone’s favorite sweet treat: ice cream. Soon enough, moms, dads and kids of all ages will be rushing to the grocery store to stock up on all the essentials for their ice cream socials, parties and backyard barbecues. In fact, in any given two-week period, 40 percent of Americans will eat ice cream according to recent research by the NPD Group. Make sure your store is ready to handle the demand by stocking up on the following:
1. Ice cream spoons
There are so many different kinds of adorable ice cream spoons on the market, from colored spoons to gelato spoons to a simple tasting spoon and everything in between. Keep a supply of each kind to satisfy any picky customers you might have. The more options, the better.
2. Ice cream cups
Cup or cone? A common question you hear in the summer months. Cater to the cup lovers by offering a variety of plastic and paper ice cream cups in all different colors and patterns. Make sure you have cones nearby as well. You can also stock up on regular bowls and plates because, where there’s ice cream, there’s usually other party food and treats as well.
3. Condiments
Chocolate syrup, caramel, maraschino cherries, sprinkles, hot fudge. Think of everything that people love to enjoy on an ice cream sundae and set it up on an end cap. Sure, the sprinkles usually go with the baking supplies but keeping them near the ice cream spoons and other dessert supplies will increase the chances of customers grabbing a pack or two (or three) on their way to the checkout.
4. Miscellaneous party supplies
Similar to condiments, you might have a separate aisle for party supplies, decorations and paper goods. But sometimes shoppers don’t even realize they need something until they see it right in front of them. Placing the summer themed decor and fun napkins near the ice cream aisle makes it much more convenient for them…and makes them spend more money in the store.
