Snack food manufacturer Walkers has released a digital guide to help symbol and independent retailers understand the upcoming HFSS regulations.
Aiming to help retailers maximise snacking sales, the document highlights the specifics of the HFSS policies which will begin to be implemented across the UK from October of this year, banning ‘junk food’ products from aisle ends.
Further restrictions will be put in place from October 2023, having been pushed back a year as a result of the cost-of-living crisis.
Despite the document aiming to navigate smaller retailers, Walkers estimate that only 5 – 10% of symbol and independent stores will be impacted by the location restrictions.
READ MORE: PepsiCo launches ‘healthier’ HFSS-compliant range of Walkers and Doritos
Walkers owner, PepsiCo, will also be launching a hub on *shopt where convenience retailers will be able to access industry-leading content and assistance on store crisp layouts, specifically designed with the ‘crisp display generator’.
Via the *shopt app, retailers can earn reward points for stocking Walkers Hero 25 products and receive merchandising display support.
Guidance will also be given on whether a Walkers product is non-HFSS as the brand will apply clear labelling to its product cases, helping stores to position each product most effectively.
“Our focus right now is on helping retailers to navigate and prepare for the upcoming HFSS regulations,” PepsiCo UK impulse category management and channel lead, Kirsten Reid, told Retail Times.
The digital guide will focus on snacking growth strategies and includes what to do, what not to do and helpful visuals.
“Firstly, we will be concentrating on maintaining space of best-selling products in the main fixture,” Reid added.
“Secondly, maximising off-fixture displays in high traffic areas around the store will help drive impulse purchases and finally, we will be supplementing both with reformulated or new non-HFSS products from well-known and trusted brands that deliver on taste and health needs.”
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