What is: The Unsung Hero of Snacking, Lunch, and Dinner

 

Ah, watermelon! The summertime delight, the picnic staple, the fruit that makes you wonder if nature really did stuff an entire swimming pool into a green-striped ball. The team at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions® and the Grocerant Guru® says, hold on to your seeds (unless you're one of those sophisticated types who only eat seedless) because watermelon isn’t just for cooling down on a hot day. No, my friends, it’s the unsung hero of meals across the clock: from snacking to lunch, and even dinner. Let’s dive into why this juicy juggernaut deserves a place at your table all day long.

Breakfast Watermelon: A Juicy Wake-Up Call

Imagine this: it’s 7 AM, and your alarm is blaring. You need something refreshing to kickstart your day. Coffee? Too mainstream. A smoothie? Too much effort. Enter the watermelon. A bowl of watermelon cubes is like a splash of cold water to the face but way more delicious. Plus, it’s 92% water, so it’s basically hydration on a plate. And guess what? That hydration can help cure your morning grogginess faster than you can say “pass the melon.”

Snack Attack: Watermelon to the Rescue

The clock strikes 11 AM, and your stomach growls like a disgruntled bear. You need a snack, and you need it now. Instead of reaching for the usual suspects—chips, candy, or a dubious leftover donut—why not grab a slice of watermelon? It’s low in calories (just 46 per cup!) but high in satisfaction. That crunch! That sweetness! It’s like a tropical vacation in your mouth, minus the sand in your swimsuit.

Lunch Like a Champion: Watermelon Edition

Lunch time rolls around, and you’re looking for something light but filling. Watermelon to the rescue once again! Toss some cubes into a salad with feta cheese, mint, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Now you’re not just eating lunch; you’re dining in style. This combination is not only Instagram-worthy but also a powerhouse of nutrients. Watermelon is rich in vitamins A and C, and the feta adds a punch of protein. Who knew being fancy could be so easy?

Mid-Afternoon Slump? Watermelon’s Got Your Back

It’s 3 PM, and you’re fading fast. The post-lunch slump is real, people. But instead of reaching for a caffeine fix, why not opt for watermelon? Its natural sugars provide a gentle energy boost without the crash, and its high water content helps keep you hydrated and alert. Plus, nibbling on those juicy chunks is a lot more fun than sipping on yet another cup of joe.

Dinner Time: Watermelon for the Win

You’re thinking about dinner, and suddenly the idea of cooking feels more daunting than climbing Mount Everest. Fear not! Watermelon is here to save the day. How about a watermelon and shrimp ceviche? Or a grilled watermelon steak? Yes, you heard that right. Grilled watermelon. The heat caramelizes the natural sugars, giving it a smoky, savory-sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with a sprinkle of sea salt and a squeeze of lime. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you.

Dessert? You Bet!

Did you really think we’d stop at dinner? Watermelon shines here, too. Ever tried watermelon sorbet? It’s as easy as blending frozen watermelon chunks with a bit of lime juice. Voilà! You’ve got a refreshing, guilt-free dessert that’ll cool you down and satisfy your sweet tooth in one fell swoop.

The Final Slice

In conclusion, watermelon isn’t just a fruit; it’s a versatile, hydrating, nutrient-packed superhero ready to rescue you from culinary boredom at any time of day. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a refreshing side dish, or an innovative entrée, watermelon’s got your back. So, next time you’re at the grocery store, go ahead and grab that big green ball of goodness. Your taste buds (and your body) will be glad you did.

Remember: when life gives you watermelons, make every meal a celebration!

Invite Foodservice Solutions® to complete a Grocerant ScoreCard, or for product positioning or placement assistance, or call our Grocerant Guru®.  Since 1991 Foodservice Solutions® of Tacoma, WA has been the global leader in the Grocerant niche. Contact: Steve@FoodserviceSolutions.us or 253-759-7869

July 4th Cookout Costs Skyrocket: Grocerant Guru's Guide to Smarter Shopping

 

Hey there, fellow food enthusiasts! This year’s Independence Day cookout might burn a bigger hole in your pocket, but don’t worry Steven Johnson the Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions® has the scoop on how to stretch those dollars. According to the American Farm Bureau’s annual Fourth of July market basket survey, the cost for a classic cookout is hitting new highs in 2024. But with some savvy shopping strategies, you can still enjoy your feast without breaking the bank.

Survey Highlights:

·         Total Cost for 10 People: $71.22 (up 5% from last year, up 30% from five years ago)

·         Per Person Cost: $7.12

·         Main Culprit: Meat (50% of the total cost)

·         Ground Beef: $12.77 for 2 pounds (up 11%)

·         Chicken Breasts: Slight decrease in price

·         Potato Salad: Down 4%

Grocerant Guru’s Tips for Smarter Shopping:

1.       Shop Multiple Stores:

o    Why? Different stores have different sales and discounts. For instance, one store might have a great deal on ground beef, while another offers cheaper strawberries. By spreading out your shopping, you can take advantage of the best prices across the board.

o    Fact: Studies show that consumers who shop at multiple stores can save up to 15% on their grocery bills.

2.       Leverage Discount Days and Coupons:

o    Why? Many stores offer special discount days or digital coupons. Sign up for loyalty programs and keep an eye on weekly flyers.

o    Fact: Using coupons and shopping during discount days can save you an additional 10-20%.

3.       Bulk Buying and Sharing:

o    Why? Buying in bulk can be cheaper per unit. Split large quantities with friends or neighbors to minimize waste and cost.

o    Fact: Bulk purchases can reduce the per-unit cost by 25-30%.

4.       

Seasonal and Local Produce:

o    Why? Seasonal fruits and vegetables are often cheaper and fresher. Local farmers’ markets can offer great deals, especially towards the end of the day.

o    Fact: Purchasing seasonal produce can lower costs by up to 20%.

Breaking Down the Cookout Costs:

·         Hamburger Buns: $2.71 (up 7%) - Check for sales and generic brands.

·         American Cheese Slices: $3.57 (up 1%) - Look for in-store promotions.

·         Ice Cream: $5.65 (up 7%) - Consider making homemade ice cream for a fun activity and cost savings.

·         Lemonade: $4.19 (up 12%) - Try using bottled lemon juice and sweeteners as an alternative.

·         Strawberries: $4.61 - Visit local farms or farmers’ markets for fresh and potentially cheaper options.

·         Potato Chips: $4.90 (up 8%) - Look for sales or consider making your own for a healthier and cost-effective option.

Regional Variations:

·         Northeast: $63.54 for 10 people - Consider yourself lucky, as this is below the national average!

·         South and Midwest: Around $68.30 - Still under the national average.

·         West: $80.88 - A bit pricier, so strategic shopping is even more critical here.

Economic Factors:

The increases in cookout costs reflect broader economic issues like general inflation, supply chain disruptions, and rising production costs. However, by shopping smart and spreading your purchases across multiple stores, you can mitigate some of these impacts and enjoy a festive Fourth of July without the financial strain.

So, gather your shopping lists, compare prices, and make the most of every dollar. Happy grilling, and may your cookout be delicious and affordable!

Your Grocerant Guru®, always here to help you eat well and spend less.

Are you ready for some fresh ideations? Do your food marketing ideas look more like yesterday than tomorrow? Interested in learning how our Grocerant Guru® can edify your retail food brand while creating a platform for consumer convenient meal participation, differentiation, and individualization?  Email us at: Steve@FoodserviceSolutions.us or visit: us on our social media sites by clicking one of the following links: Facebook,  LinkedIn, or Twitter

The Fresh Market Meals, Menus, Magic

 

There are roughly 29 restaurants in the United States for every grocery store today. During the past 12 years roughly 50% of legacy grocery stores have closed.  Consumers are dynamic not static and according to Steven Johnson, Grocerant Guru® at Tacoma, WA based Foodservice Solutions® if you are a legacy grocery store today unless you evolve you may not be around in five more years.  

Regular readers of this blog know that The Fresh Market is working hard at focusing on today’s consumers not yesterday’s retail metrics.  Currently consumers at The Fresh Market are getting a head start on summer celebrations with a variety of grocerant niche fresh prepared foods, from an Ultimate Summer Picnic to Father’s Day meals and a backyard barbecue meal kit for the Fourth of July.  The Fresh Market has created a platform for meal solutions to rival those offered in the restaurant space.

Dan Portnoy, chief merchandising officer of The Fresh Market, stated, “As a sense of normalcy begins to return, we wanted to ensure we had everything our guests need to enjoy the season from holiday meals to new and innovative seasonal items and grilling essentials. There’s something for our guests to discover in every department this summer.”

If success does leave clues, and it does, you can see how the new, Ultimate Summer Picnic for four people at $49.99, which includes a Petite Bistro sandwich tray, a charcuterie tray, The Fresh Market Fig and Olive Crisps, a mixed melon cup, The Fresh Market Sparkling Mineral Water, and a dessert bar sampler box, is garnering attention. The Ultimate Summer Picnic can be ordered from The Fresh Market online for pickup the next day all summer long.

Meals for many mean meal kits, not to worry at The Fresh Market they have an all-in-one meals that are ready to cook. Start thinking ahead as for Father’s Day, The Fresh Market is offering a Tomahawk Meal for $99.99. It serves four and includes two premium choice Tomahawk Steaks, four veggie kabobs, a shrimp cocktail tray, 1 pound of smoky mozzarella pasta salad and a chocolate fudge pie.

Not done yet, new this year is an Ultimate Kabob Meal for $49.99. It serves four and includes a choice of Ultimate Steak Asada Skewers or Ultimate Salmon Skewers (choose four steak, four salmon or mix and match with two of each), four loaded twice-baked potatoes, a rustic apple tart, and a pint of Talenti Tahitian Vanilla Bean Gelato. The Father’s Day meals can be ordered online through June 15, and then picked up in-store June 18-20.

Empowering summer meal solutions, The Fresh Market is offering a Fourth of July Ultimate Backyard Barbecue. The barbecue serves six to eight people and comes with three racks of baby back ribs, 2 pounds of mild Italian sausage, The Fresh Market Sweet BBQ Rib Rub, The Fresh Market Thick & Sweet BBQ Sauce, four veggie kabobs, 2 pounds of Mediterranean pasta salad, an old-fashioned apple pie and Homemade Brand Vanilla Bean Ice Cream. The Ultimate Backyard Barbecue can be ordered through June 29 for pickup from July 1-5.

Note: In addition to the convenient holiday meal offerings, The Fresh Market is promoting its Gourmet Burgers that are made in-store with fresh ground meat and are only sold the same day they are made. Guests can expect to find at least eight varieties every day, such as Bacon Cheddar Burger, Bleu Cheese Burger, Portabella Gouda Burger, Three Cheese Burger, Philly Cheesesteak Burger, Garden Fresh Turkey Burger and Spinach & Feta Greek Chicken Burger.

Mix and match meal components are the hallmark of the Grocerant Niche and The Fresh Market is also offering seasonal citrus desserts and baked goods, including a new Lemon Cake Roll; Summer Bliss Chiffon Cake; Lemon Supreme Cream Pie; and Coconut Pineapple Mini Muffins.

Foodservice Solutions® specializes in outsourced business development. We can help you identify, quantify and qualify additional food retail segment opportunities or a new menu product segment and brand and menu integration strategy.  Foodservice Solutions® of Tacoma WA is the global leader in the Grocerant niche.