Mars Wrigley showcased its latest product innovations at the 2024 National Association of Convenience Stores (NACS) Show Expo in Las Vegas. The new products, developed based on consumer insights, address growing demand for variety, new formats, and diverse textures in snacks and treats.
A significant portion of American consumers, 93%, are within 10 minutes of a convenience store, and 71% of adults discover new products in these stores. Recognizing the importance of convenience stores in consumers’ daily routines, Mars Wrigley has developed new offerings aimed at fueling category growth and meeting the adventurous tastes of c-store shoppers.
Tim LeBel, President of Sales at Mars Wrigley North America, emphasized the company’s focus on consumer preferences. He highlighted the company’s work in new product formats and textures, as well as partnerships to elevate the shopping experience, particularly in the Transaction Zone. The Transaction Zone team at Mars has secured a patent for PayPoint Optimizer, a tool that uses transaction data to enhance store layouts and boost impulse purchases.
Mars also showcased its collaboration with convenience store foodservices to integrate iconic brands like M&M’S, SNICKERS, and TWIX into menu items such as cookies, brownies, and frozen treats. This partnership aims to leverage brand power to create excitement in the convenience foodservice channel.
Attendees at the expo sampled several new Mars Wrigley products, including M&M’S Peanut Butter & Jelly, M&M’S Peanut Butter Ice Cream Cookie Sandwich, SKITTLES POP’d, SNICKERS Dark Ice Cream Bars, and SNICKERS Pecan. Additionally, Mars introduced SNICKERS Shapes, starting with SNICKERS Trees for the holiday season.
These innovations highlight Mars Wrigley’s commitment to delivering a range of new products that cater to evolving consumer preferences.