Gen Z is the largest generation in history. Born between 1997-2012, this cohort makes up 25% of the global population and their spending power is anticipated to reach $12 trillion in the next five years. For grocers, understanding the habitats, behaviors and priorities of this group is important when trying to tap into their market share. Here are three things grocers must consider when appealing to Gen Z.
- Their Meal Inspo Comes from Social
Deciding what’s for breakfast, lunch and dinner EVERY day can be a pain for all generations. The way Gen Z decides what’s on the menu differs from others, though. Research from The Food Industry Association found that 48% of Gen Z respondents seek out recipe inspiration by scrolling TikTok. With this in mind, the meals Gen Z prepares aren’t just delicious and nutritious, they need to be beautiful too. After all, as the saying goes, “phone eats first”. Plus, 77% of Gen Z-ers use TikTok for product discovery—from beauty products to snacks.
Gen Z is using their spending power to drive sustainable change. Research found 62% of Gen Z consumers prefer brands that are more sustainable and 73% are willing to spend more on a product if it is sustainable. More specific to the food and beverage industry, Gen Z is purchasing, cooking, baking and eating foods that have lower environmental impacts, including locally sourced foods.
2. They Are Sustainably Driven
Bulk foods are more eco-friendly and offer that farmers market feel, showcase local products and reduce transportation costs. Because bulk foods have less packaging, they take up less space to transport, reducing LTL costs and carbon emissions. Brands that align with Gen-Z’s values and demonstrate a commitment to sustainability stand to gain their loyalty and support. Promoting these facts within your store can help sway these sustainably minded individuals to choose bulk versus packaged alternatives.
3. They Are Buying in Bulk
Buying items in bulk—whether paper towels, chicken breasts or package-free snacks—helps reduce packaging and environmental impact. This savings is passed on to the consumer and results in a lower cost per ounce in most cases. Experts found that Gen Z is more inclined than other generations to hunt for deals and savings, much like those raised during the Great Depression. Gen Z is both frugal and sustainable, making bulk purchases more appealing to them. Research found 24% of Gen Z are buying more bulk produce year over year and 56% are buying meat and poultry in larger, bulk packages as well. Some even split larger buys with friends, family or roommates. For snacks, nuts and more, Bulk food dispensers allow Gen Z to buy only what they need, reduce packaging waste and snack more sustainably too.
Bulk food merchandising solutions can help your grocery store or co-op stand out to sustainably focused shoppers of all generations. Add eco-friendly gravity dispensers, scoop bins or nut butter grinders to your store. Find the right products by browsing our catalog or contact our team for a free, customized quote.