3 minute read
Sunshine scoop
Summer is on its way so get ready for your ice cream and sorbet sales to take off. From comforting classics to exotic combinations, there are plenty of opportunities to turn heads with this category
As temperatures soar, it’s no surprise that ice cream and sorbets sit firmly at the top of the list when it comes to the nation’s favourite way to cool down. Whether it’s a dine-in dessert or a handheld ice cream to go, it’s essential that you offer what your customers are looking for.
Keep an eye on what your competition is offering and if in doubt, ask your customers what they would like to see on the menu. Increase your kerb appeal during the warmer days by using signage outside your venue to let warm passers-by know that you have delicious ice cream available.
KEEP THE FUN
The main ingredient in ice cream will always be a good sprinkling of fun. Ice cream has a way of transporting us back to childhood memories of summer holidays and running outside to flag down the ice cream van. Customers purchasing ice cream are looking for a fun, indulgent treat rather than simply a refreshment, so why not really lean into this by installing an eye-catching create-your-own ice cream station? Sprinkles, marshmallows, sauces and chocolate chips will all be a fantastic way to help children and adults alike really
HEALTH FOCUS
There is a marked rise in plant-based, lactose-free, gluten-free, low-calorie and sugar-free ice cream options so if you can, make space for these on your shelves. Health continues to drive consumer buying habits and Statista has reported that 26% of UK ice cream consumers said they would be interested in trying reduced sugar ice creams. With many of the top ice cream brands, such as Jude’s and Ben & Jerry’s, offering ice cream options for each of the main dietary requirements, including a few SKUs is an easy win with customers.
MIX IT UP
While the classic flavours such as vanilla, strawberry and chocolate will always be crowd-pleasers, in recent years there has been an explosion of interest in more exotic, unexpected flavours and combinations, creating memorable taste experiences.
Flavour fusions such as salted caramel with rosemary and olive oil can be more popular than you might think.
TOP TIPREGULARLY CHANGE YOUR CREAM FLAVOURS AND ADVERTISE THEM ON A SPECIALS BOARD OUTSIDE YOUR VENUE TO ATTRACT POTENTIAL PASSING CUSTOMERS
'ICE AND EASY
Will you buy your ice cream and sorbet or make it yourself? While commercial ice-cream makers come at a more premium cost, don’t be tempted by a cheaper domestic version as these rarely deliver the quality customers expect or the quantity you’ll need.
If you can’t financially justify investing in an ice-cream maker or you want to see how sales perform first, another option is to use a mix such as Bird’s Ice Cream Mix.
MILKSHAKE MANIA
In the face of the cost-of-living crisis, milkshakes are an opportunity for foodservice operators to provide an affordable and more convenient treat that will allow customers to indulge in a small luxury without having to justify the expense.
