goEBT Blog

Embracing the Trend: Food as Medicine and How Grocers Can Lead the Way

info@goebt.com (goEBT Blog) — Thu, 27 Jun 2024 18:48:44 GMT

The concept of "food as medicine" is revolutionizing the role of grocers in promoting public health. With a focus on healthy choices and increased access, grocers are becoming key partners in their customers' wellness journeys.

How to Combat the Post-Holiday Sales Slump

maggiepaulk@cdeinc.com (Maggie Paulk) — Sun, 26 May 2024 23:22:40 GMT

The holiday season, with its flurry of shoppers and ringing cash registers, can be a retail high. But what follows often feels like a steep drop - the post-holiday slump. As a store owner, you might find this period challenging, but it's also an opportunity to get creative and keep your business thriving. Here are strategies to help you combat the slowest months in retail.

1. Analyze and Adjust Inventory
January and February are the perfect months to analyze your inventory. Look at what sold well during the holidays and what didn't. This analysis can help you make informed decisions about future stock orders. Consider discounting items that didn't sell well to free up shelf space for new products.

2. Refresh Your Marketing Strategy
The new year is a great time to refresh your marketing. Focus on building a narrative around your brand that resonates with the post-holiday mood. People are often looking to start fresh, so tailor your marketing to themes of renewal, health, and organization.

3. Leverage Social Media
Social media is a powerful tool to keep your customers engaged. Share behind-the-scenes content, upcoming deals, or new products. Consider running social media-exclusive promotions to encourage your followers to visit your store.

4. Host Events or Workshops
Events and workshops can draw people into your store during slow periods. For example, if you run a grocery store, consider hosting a local chef to prepare samples with select products in your store.

5. Offer Exclusive Deals
Create exclusive deals for your most loyal customers. This could be in the form of a loyalty program, special discounts, or early access to new products. Personalized deals can make customers feel valued and more likely to shop even during slow periods.

6. Focus on Customer Experience
Enhancing the customer experience can turn a casual shopper into a loyal one. Train your staff to provide exceptional service, ensure your store is inviting, and consider small touches like complimentary coffee or a comfortable seating area.

7. Utilize Email Marketing
Keep in touch with your customers through email marketing. Share updates about your store, special promotions, or interesting content related to your products. A well-crafted email can remind customers of your presence and encourage them to visit.

8. Plan for the Future
Use this slower period to plan for the future. Analyze your business performance, set goals for the upcoming year, and strategize on how to achieve them. This preparation can set you up for success when the retail pace picks up again.

The post-holiday slump can be a challenging time for retailers, but it's also an opportunity to regroup, strategize, and engage with your customers in new ways. By implementing these strategies, you can keep your store vibrant and ready for the busier months ahead. Remember, every season in retail brings its own set of challenges and opportunities – it's all about how you leverage them!

What is the Restaurant Meals Program?

maggiepaulk@cdeinc.com (Maggie Paulk) — Sun, 26 May 2024 23:21:03 GMT

The FNS Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) is an initiative that is making a significant impact in the fight against hunger. This program, operated by individual states, enables SNAP recipients to use their benefits at various restaurants, including quick-service ones, to purchase prepared meals. This initiative is not just about providing food; it's about ensuring access to hot, prepared, and nutritionally balanced meals for those who might struggle to store or prepare food themselves.

How to Advertise Your Store Accepts EBT: The Importance of POP

maggiepaulk@cdeinc.com (Maggie Paulk) — Mon, 08 Apr 2024 20:02:41 GMT

Adapting to the needs of your customers is key to driving sales and enhancing the shopping experience. One way to open your doors to a new population and enhance the customer experience for SNAP recipients is by accepting EBT payments. Once you are set up to accept EBT payments, advertising your store's EBT acceptance effectively can attract a broader customer base, foster loyalty, and increase sales. Here's how you can leverage Point of Purchase (POP) marketing to increase foot traffic…

24 C-Store Trends for 2024

maggiepaulk@cdeinc.com (Maggie Paulk) — Thu, 22 Feb 2024 18:47:27 GMT

Discover 24 key convenience store industry trends for 2024 in this free guide from goEBT!

Understanding the Price-Conscious Customer

maggiepaulk@cdeinc.com (Maggie Paulk) — Tue, 13 Feb 2024 20:58:35 GMT

In today's retail environment, where inflation and economic uncertainty are at the forefront of consumers' minds, store owners must navigate the delicate balance between quality and affordability. As customers become more price-sensitive, understanding their needs and adjusting business strategies accordingly is essential.

C-stores are Elevating Foodservice to Bring in New Customers

maggiepaulk@cdeinc.com (Maggie Paulk) — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 19:54:09 GMT

Convenience stores have been known for their selection of snacks and drinks, but recently they are becoming a destination for travelers to stop for meals. With convenience being a key trend and the “grab-and-go” lifestyle becoming increasingly popular, c-stores are elevating their foodservice offerings. Here are some ways c-stores are improving foodservice to attract customers looking for quick meals.

Convenience Store Count Continues to Rise

maggiepaulk@cdeinc.com (Maggie Paulk) — Wed, 31 Jan 2024 22:26:50 GMT

With time being the new currency, convenience stores are becoming hubs for quick shopping, food, and more, redefining the retail landscape. The latest census data from NACS highlights another year where the number of convenience stores increased across the United States. In a market that is growing more saturated, store owners need to understand these trends and learn how to stand out.

2024 Grocery Industry Trends to Watch

maggiepaulk@cdeinc.com (Maggie Paulk) — Wed, 24 Jan 2024 20:58:56 GMT

The grocery industry is expected to transform in 2024, driven by evolving consumer behaviors and technological advancements. For store owners, staying ahead of these trends is not only beneficial, but important for success this year. Learn the pivotal trends that grocery store owners should watch and adapt to in 2024 based on highlights from Progressive Grocer and Insider.

Maximizing Revenue with the USDA Summer EBT Program

maggiepaulk@cdeinc.com (Maggie Paulk) — Thu, 18 Jan 2024 19:39:27 GMT

The USDA’s new Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) program provides retailers a unique opportunity to tap into a significant market segment and add to their revenue streams. The USDA initiative, aimed at closing the summer hunger gap for children, is not just a stride towards national nutrition and health; it's an opportunity for retailers to align their business strategies with community needs. Here's how store owners can make the most of the upcoming SNAP increases…