Every year at Expo West, we get to know the latest trends in the Natural Products industry. This year was no different–we noticed upcoming developments that we think will change the market this year.
For one thing, Plant Based Foods are becoming the top of the food chain. It became its own organization –Plant Based Foods Association–and celebrated its one-year anniversary at Expo this year. According to a trend report by New Hope Media, “Whether for heart health, climate health, ecological efficiency or animal welfare, plants are fast becoming man’s best friend.” (12 trends to watch at Natural Products Expo West).
This is one trend we are happy to have a partnership with. Our partner, Plant Based Solutions’ founder and CEO David Benzaquen stated, “With consumer desire for cleaner, more sustainable, and healthier foods, plant-based products have seen massive growth. This is spurred not just by the growing number of vegetarians, but even more so, by the over 40% of Americans who are seeking to reduce their meat, dairy, and egg intake.” (Source: Mintel)
Another positive trend we found was the amount of charitable giving and different causes supported by brands. For example, Justin’s promoted their support for the diminishing honeybee population. And they weren’t the only ones–many brands were supporting the bee saving movement!
Another creative charitable idea was by The Soulfull Project, where attendees placed a pin on a location on a map, and the brand gave a donation to the pinned local food bank.
AsanteMama also took to the giving trend. The brand offered a sweet tea gift set for a $5 donation to support Ugandan farmers who harvest their teas. They created a “Hero Wall” where Polaroid pictures of donors were displayed.
From a marketing perspective, the booths that seemed to have created the most buzz had some kind of interacting game to play. From classics like Twister and Ring Toss, to the latest technical toys, like a selfie booth and virtual reality goggles.
We sure enjoyed finding and interacting with the latest developments and trends in the natural food industry. What trends did you see at the show this year? Give us a call–we’d love to chat!
