1. Value 

Value and family-sized packages of baked goods and smaller and individual desserts are increasingly popular with customers at Giant Eagle stores, said Jannah Jablonowski, public relations manager. Specialty offerings that are available on a seasonal basis are another leading bakery trend for the retailer.

2. Convenience

On the deli side, high-quality, convenient meal, snack, and entertaining solutions continue to be a priority for Giant Eagle, Jablonowski said.

The retailer also expects protein-focused snacking options and prepared entertainment platters, including specialty cheese, charcuterie, and grazing boards, to continue to be popular.

3. Cross-marketing

In both ISB and instore deli, Giant Eagle relies heavily on cross-merchandising to support various promotions, events, and holidays, Jablonowski said.

“There’s also an opportunity to leverage pop culture moments, local sporting events, and national food holidays to bring awareness and interest to bakery and deli,” she added.

For example, the Giant Eagle bakery recently created a solar eclipse-themed assortment in response to the huge local interest in the astronomical event. 

This article is an excerpt from the May 2024 issue of Supermarket Perimeter. You can read the entire Deli/Bakery Trends feature and more in the digital edition here.