Onions represent the third largest fresh vegetable industry in the United States. The U.S. per capita consumption of onions in 2018 was 20.39 pounds per year, which is a 101 percent increase in consumption since 1970.
Onions protect themselves — and you!
Americans are indeed eating more onions. It certainly helps that onions have natural attributes to stay free of food-borne illnesses and keep us healthy at the same time! You might even say they were Nature’s Ninja!
According to studies conducted for the National Onion Association, consumers find onions to be convenient, versatile and of excellent quality and value. They also view onions as healthy and flavorful. These trends can guide retailers to improved onion movement and sales.
Because onions are seldom bought on impulse, reach the consumer through in-store ads and other marketing channels including social media to boost sales. In store promotions are also important as they can serve to remind consumers to stock-up.
Considered healthy, onions can be used as tie-ins with other healthy products important for adding flavor without adding sodium or fat. Onions are versatile in the kitchen and equally versatile for in-store promotions as they can be included in most current food, health and ethnic trends.
Use seasonality to move onions. Domestic supplies of yellow, red, and white onions are available year round but vary from one time of year to another. For example, in warm weather consumers tend to prepare more salads, fresh salsas, and lightly cooked or grilled dishes. These foods work best with juicy, crisp, sweet to mild onions available spring/summer. In colder weather, consumers turn to comfort foods like soups, stews, and roasts – all dishes made especially savory with onions available fall/winter. Pair onions with seasonally appropriate items to create effective cross merchandising sales opportunities. Highlight them in the deli section of the store to increase movement and sales volume.
