TL;DR
Independent retailers can boost their businesses by offering healthier snacks that tap into nostalgic flavors, as seen in the snack bar market. Brands like Bobo’s focus on core ingredients, like oats, to create delicious and familiar products. By staying true to their brand while adapting to evolving consumer trends, retailers can build a loyal customer base and thrive.
Small and independent retailers looking to boost their business should consider stocking up on a new wave of healthier snacks that bring back the flavors of the past. The snack bar market, for example, is witnessing significant growth, and brands like Bobo’s are at the forefront of this trend.
For two decades, Bobo’s has been building its brand around simple, clean, and familiar ingredients. The company’s CEO, TJ McIntyre, believes that their success lies in the simplicity and taste of their “perfectly imperfect oat bars,” which are centered around oats, a well-known and beloved ingredient.
McIntyre explains that Bobo’s oat recipe serves as the foundation for developing various flavors and formats. Despite the ever-changing dietary trends, the brand remains dedicated to bringing oats “to life.” Instead of following diet fads like protein-focused, paleo, or keto, Bobo’s sticks to its core concept of oat-based bars that prioritize flavor and natural goodness.
The snack bar market is predicted to reach $41.7 billion by 2032, driven by diverse taste preferences. This includes a mix of nostalgic and familiar flavors as well as novel, gourmet options. Notably, flavors like chocolate, mint, oatmeal, and cookies and cream have gained popularity.
Focusing on a core ingredient, similar to Bobo’s oats or KIND’s almonds, can help create a strong brand identity and loyal customer base. Julia Shapiro, VP of Brand and Content at Aloha, emphasizes the importance of striking a balance between staying true to the brand’s essence and adapting to evolving consumer trends.
Incorporating healthier options with nostalgic flavors can be a winning strategy for small retailers. By offering products that resonate with consumers’ memories and taste preferences while maintaining a commitment to health and wellness, independent retailers can attract and retain customers in a competitive market.
