At time of writing the Great British summer is yet to materialise, but that shouldn't dissuade retailers from getting started on summer planning and curating a range of speciality and fine food & drink to dazzle and delight customers. Summer is a lucrative opportunity for retailers to fine-tune their product assortments and appeal to the evolving tastes of their patrons. Here are some of our reccomendation for a stellar summer season. 

Embrace Seasonality

Embracing the seasonal bounty is a delightful way to attract and excite customers. A well-curated selection of seasonal products from trusted suppliers like The Wooden Spoon Preserving Company can transform your store into a sought-after destination for gourmet shoppers. Consider featuring their classic fine cut marmalade, a perfect companion for breakfasts on sunny mornings; sumptuous preserved cherries that can elevate any dessert or cocktail; and their famous 'bitter sweet' lemon curd, ideal for adding a tangy twist to summer treats.

Diversify Your Drinks

Refreshing drinks are indispensable during the hot summer months. With customers increasingly eager to try new and adventurous beverages, it's a fantastic opportunity for retailers to introduce new brands and curate a selection of options. Consider including a variety of ice teas, fruit-infused waters, and functional beverages. Also, explore the enchanting world of delicate gins with offerings from Golden Road Gin, renowned for its refined flavours that capture the essence of Welsh craftsmanship.

Embrace the Upsell

Summer is all about  the art of the upsell. Customers trust speciality retailers to provide advice and guidance on exciting new products, delicious flavour combinations and unique products to give their picnic, BBQ or summer event that something extra special. In addition to pairing complementary products and crafting unique hampers and multibuys, encourage your staff to give their personal advice and guidance and share their favourite products with your customers. Plus, providing the opportunity for producers to host tastings and special events at your shop will add a fun summer buzz.

Snacks on the Go

Summer is synonymous with outdoor activities and picnics, creating a fantastic opportunity for retailers to upsell through curated selections. Enhance your customer’s picnic with gourmet sandwiches, crisp salads, and a selection of artisanal cheeses like those from White Lake Cheese, known for their exquisite handmade cheeses from Somerset. Complement these with luxury gift hampers from The British Hamper Company, perfect for any alfresco dining experience.

Healthy and Light

With the arrival of summer, there's a notable shift towards healthier and lighter eating options. Stock up on low sugar and low-fat alternatives, vibrant salads, and plant-based protein options ideal for summer BBQs. Adding refreshing herbal drinks from Brookside Botanicals can offer an invigorating accompaniment to light summer meals.

Enhance Your In-Store Experience

Consider the overall customer experience upon entering your store. The beginning of summer is the perfect time to rethink your layout to highlight seasonal products that appeal in warmer weather. Engage customers with free samples, cooking demonstrations, or interactive workshops if space allows. These activities not only enhance the shopping experience but also educate your customers about your products, empowering your staff to make knowledgeable recommendations and upsell effectively.

Stay Informed and Inspired

Always be on the lookout for innovative and trend-setting products to refresh your inventory. Events like Speciality & Fine Food Fair, returning to Olympia London on 10-11 September, are ideal for discovering new products and connecting with other industry professionals.

By implementing these tips, you can ensure your store not only meets but exceeds the expectations of your customers this summer, making it a go-to destination for all their speciality food & drink needs.

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