Stocking Smarter - How to curate a winning range

Stocking Smarter - How to curate a winning range

In the fast-moving world of food retail, stocking smarter is the key to standing out. The right product selection not only attracts customers but also keeps them coming back for more. But with thousands of products to choose from, how should independent retailers decide what to stock?

Spotting the next big thing
Food trends come and go, and staying ahead of them can feel like a full-time job. The good news? The best sources of inspiration are right at your fingertips.

Customer requests offer a direct line to what shoppers are looking for, while industry publications provide insights into emerging trends before they hit the mainstream. Social media is another goldmine - one viral TikTok or Instagram post can turn an unknown product into a must-have, overnight. And let's not forget the power of celebrity chefs - if it's on their menu, it won't be long before customers are asking for it.

At Holleys, we keep a close eye on all these channels, ensuring our range is constantly evolving to reflect what customers want now - not what was popular six months ago.

What makes a product stand out?
Not every product earns its place on an independent retailer's shelves. The best-sellers and must-haves tend to have three things in common:

• Provenance - Customers love a story. Whether it's a locally sourced jam or an artisan chocolate bar, products with a sense of place and authenticity tend to perform best. A great example of this is the Gourmico range, which brings the world's finest flavours straight to your table.
• Margin-friendly pricing - The numbers have to stack up: It's about finding that sweet spot between great value for customers and profitability for the retailer. Take Bart Spices, for example - retailers enjoy a 30% margin, making it a smart and profitable choice.
• Exclusivity - If a product is readily available in major supermarkets, price becomes the battleground. Independent retailers need unique offerings that can't be found just anywhere. The Bakewell and Browne range is a prime example - always popular, but only found in selected retailers, making it a sought-after choice.

The formula for a winning range
A well-balanced product selection should blend familiarity with discovery, offering well-known brands alongside exciting new finds. When curating a range, consider:

• Saleability - Will customers instantly understand why they need this product?
• Point of difference - What makes it stand out? Is it a unique flavour, an unusual ingredient, or a fresh take on a classic?
• Trial and innovation - Keeping things fresh is key. Regularly introducing new products encourages repeat visits.

Boosting Basket Spend
Want to increas the value of every transaction? Small changes in merchandising can make a big difference.

• Offer a 'good, better, best' range - Giving customers tiered options encourages them to trade up.
• Smart product pairings - Position complementary products together - think meringues next to fresh strawberries, or artisanal crisps alongside premium dips.

Curate a winning range with Holleys
At Holleys, we make stocking smarter simple. With over 4,000 carefully curated products and expert advice tailored to your business, we help retailers build a range that works. Want to future-proof your shelves? Just Ask Holleys.