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The sweet success of vending machines

A deep dive into Sweden’s workplace snack habits

In the world of convenience, few things capture the essence of modern snacking like vending machines. In many offices and workplaces, these automated micro markets are offering a window to satisfy our cravings and energy demands.

Recently, a detailed analysis of Selfly Store’s smart vending machine sales data from workplaces in Sweden, spanning January to August 2024, revealed some fascinating trends about what people love to snack on during their workdays. Here are the most interesting findings from this deep dive into Sweden’s workplace snacking habits.

Coca-Cola: The unquestionable leader

When it comes to quenching thirst, Coca-Cola is a clear leader. This iconic brand leads the Soda category by a significant margin. The top sellers include Coca Cola Zero and Coca Cola 50cl, reflecting a strong preference for both the classic and sugar-free variants. This dominance isn’t surprising given Coca-Cola’s global appeal, but it’s impressive to see it holding such a firm grip in Swedish workplaces.

Delicato’s sweet domination

If there’s one thing Swedish workers love as much as their soda, it’s their “fika”- specifically those from Delicato. The brand's impressive sales, with Delicato Boll being the standout product, highlight a penchant for sweet, indulgent treats that provide a quick and satisfying snack option during a busy workday.

Energy drinks: The rise of Red Bull and Nocco

In the fast-paced world we live in, energy drinks have carved out a significant niche. Red Bull and Nocco are at the forefront of this trend in Sweden. Red Bull's popularity, with its 25cl variant being the most favored, underscores the brand's strong presence. Swedish brand, Nocco, isn’t far behind, with a variety of flavors that appeal to different tastes. The diversity in Nocco’s offerings - from Nocco Caribbean to Nocco Focus -shows that consumers are looking for variety as well as that energy boost.

Chocolate: Kexchoklad, Sportlunch, and Snickers leading the pack

When it comes to chocolate, Kexchoklad, Sportlunch (both from the Nordic manufacturer Cloetta), and Snickers are the undisputed champions. Kexchoklad and Sportlunch particularly their larger variants, are favorites among chocolate lovers. Snickers also holds a strong position, rounding out the top performers in the Chocolate category. These brands dominate the category, proving that a sweet, chocolaty treat is a go-to snack for many during their work breaks.

Frozen favorites: Billys and Dafgårds

Convenience foods are a hit in the Frozen category, with Billys and Dafgårds leading the way. Billys Panpizza Original is the top frozen item, highlighting the importance of ready-to-eat meals that provide a quick and filling option, underscoring the importance of convenience in the workplace vending machine market.

Varied preferences: A blend of high and medium performers

While Coca-Cola, Delicato, Red Bull, and Kexchoklad are the stars of the show, other brands like Vitamin Well, Snickers, and Pepsi also enjoy significant popularity. This variety ensures that there’s something for everyone, catering to diverse tastes and preferences.

What these trends tell us

The data from Sweden’s workplace vending machines offers a snapshot of contemporary snacking trends. The strong performance of certain brands and products highlights a few key insights:

  • Brand loyalty: Iconic brands like Coca-Cola and Red Bull continue to dominate due to their established presence and consumer trust.
  • Sweet tooth: There’s a clear preference for sweet snacks, whether it’s cookies from Delicato or chocolates from Kexchoklad and Sportlunch.
  • Convenience: Ready-to-eat meals and energy drinks are popular, reflecting a need for quick, easy, and energizing options.
  • Variety: The success of brands offering multiple flavors and variants, like Nocco and Vitamin Well, indicates that consumers appreciate diversity in their snacking options.

Looking ahead: Strategies for vending machine operators

For vending machine operators, these findings can inform stocking strategies and promotional activities:

  • Stock high-performing brands: Ensure that popular items from Coca-Cola, Delicato, Red Bull, and Kexchoklad are always available to meet demand.
  • Promote medium performers: Highlight brands like Vitamin Well and Pepsi to balance sales distribution and boost overall revenue.
  • Expand variety: Introduce new flavors and products within high-performing categories to attract more customers and increase sales further. Leverage the seasonality, for example theme drinks (like Jul/Påskmust) or candy will be in high demand during holidays like Christmas and Easter

In conclusion, the Selfly Store smart vending machine sales data from Swedish workplaces paints a clear picture of consumer preferences: a love for trusted brands, sweet indulgences, convenient meals, and a desire for variety. By understanding these trends, vending machine operators can better cater to the tastes and needs of their customers, ensuring that their machines are always stocked with the right mix of products.

 

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