Spring has arrived and the nation is looking forward to the summer months. The longer days, warmer weather and a calendar packed with social events all combine to shift shopper behaviour in ways that create fresh opportunities but also demands agility from retailers.
Now’s the time to make sure you’ve prepared your instore ranges for summer. Although the cost of living is front of mind for many, we’re expecting a lucrative trading period, especially with World Cup fever set to hit.
Whilst shaping your in-store selection for the summer, it is worth considering the seasonal changes in shopping habits.
Unique shopper shifts in summer
Insight reveals the following shifts in consumer habits during the summer months:
- 56% eat lighter, healthier options
- 34% buy more food on the go
- 31% make more spontaneous, smaller shopping trips
With the top five foods clearly aligning with warmer weather habits being:
- Salads
- Ice cream
- BBQ meats
- Fresh fruit
- Lighter meals
Must-stock categories for this summer
With this swing in shopper behaviour, retailers should prioritise the categories that align with warmer weather.
- Soft drinks and water: Still and sparkling water, sports drinks and flavoured options see a major uplift during this time.
- Ice cream and frozen treats: A core summer staple with strong impulse appeal. This year, Co-op Wholesale has developed tasty treats such as Lemon and Blueberry Ice Cream and decadent Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Mini Bites.
- Food-to-go: With 34% of consumers saying they buy more food on the go in the summer, stocking sandwiches, salads, wraps and snacking options is essential. At Co-op Wholesale we have introduced new ranges to capitalise on al-fresco dining, from Irresistible Mortadella and Mascarpone Focaccia sandwiches to individual cherry Bakewell blondies, there is something to tempt everyone.
- BBQ and picnic ranges: Meats, sauces, snacks and disposable tableware are key. Quick, easy-to-prepare salads such as our new Caesar salad kit also help keep things convenient and relaxed.
- Alcohol: Beer, cider, RTDs and lighter wine options remain popular. With rapid growth in canned cocktails, stocking a varied selection can help maximise basket spend.
- Health and wellness: Sunscreen, hydration products and lighter snacks appeal to shoppers on the go.
Visit OCS to find some brilliant deals on our summer products, ready to capitalise on an important season for convenience.
Insights from Co-op Summer Research Report, 2025 (Human8)