As the days get longer and warmer, one thing becomes clear: it’s officially grilling season. For retailers, that means a huge opportunity to meet consumers where they are—outdoors, entertaining, and hungry for summer-ready food that’s fresh, flavorful, and easy to serve.

At Unilever Food Solutions (UFS), we know that summer isn’t just a season—it’s a mindset. And that mindset is all about gathering, sharing, and savoring. Retail delis that anticipate and respond to this seasonal shift with delicious, ready-to-enjoy offerings are better positioned to boost profits, drive customer loyalty, and stand out from the competition.

Source: The Food Group / Devon Knight

Why Seasonal Dishes Matter

According to the 2024 Supermarket Segment Guide by Datassential, seasonal offerings are proven revenue drivers, with consumers actively seeking out holiday-themed dishes, familiar seasonal flavors, and convenient options for their gatherings. Moreover, the value of cooking at home is a key growth driver for supermarkets. This trend is especially powerful in summer, when 67% of shoppers say their entertaining plans include a cookout or barbecue (Circana, May 2023).

Retailers that strategically adjust their deli selections for summer—by offering grill-friendly proteins, bright salads, and bold-flavored sides—can take full advantage of this surge in seasonal demand.

From Scratch or Ready-to-Go? Give Shoppers Both

While many shoppers love making their grilled entrees from scratch, there’s still a huge opportunity to win on the sides. Circana’s 2023 report shows deli pasta salads are up 12.4% in dollar sales and 4.1% in volume year-over-year. Why? Shoppers want high-quality, flavorful, and time-saving options—especially when it comes to sides that are harder to whip up at home.

UFS’s versatile products, like Hellmann’s® Real Mayonnaise, Knorr Professional® sauces, and chef-developed dressings, are designed to help operators create standout dishes that hold well in the deli case—and at the family picnic.

Deli Staples with Seasonal Staying Power

Ready to turn your retail deli counter into a summer destination? Here’s how to use UFS products to create dishes that align with seasonal trends, summer grilling moments, and cookout culture.

Source: The Food Group / Devon Knight

Potato Salads with Personality

No summer gathering is complete without potato salad. UFS chefs have created three elevated variations that reflect trending global flavors and classic comfort.

• Dijon Potato Salad: A smoked sausage twist with Maille® Dijon Mustard and Hellmann’s® Real Mayonnaise.
• Garlic Potato Salad: Fingerlings, roasted peppers, and savory depth from Hellmann’s® Garlic Aioli.
• Mediterranean Herb & Feta Potato Salad: A vibrant mix of feta, sumac, cherry tomatoes, and Hellmann’s® Lemon Za’atar Vinaigrette.

Each one is designed to hold its texture and flavor, whether it’s sold by the pound or pre-packed for grab-and-go.

Sandwiches Built to Travel

• Jerk Chicken Sandwich: Caribbean flair with Knorr Professional® Jerk Sauce and grilled pineapple.

Perfect for catering, beach lunches, or on-the-go snacking—built to stay fresh and flavorful.

Source: The Food Group / Devon Knight

Summer-Ready Dips and Sides

• Jalapeño Elote Dip: Bold and shareable with charred corn, cotija, and Hellmann’s® Real Mayonnaise. Pair with house-made chips or fresh veggies for a party-ready addition.

Kebabs and Seasonal Skewers

• Miso-Glazed Salmon & Pineapple Skewers: A sweet-savory combo that’s grill-ready and perfect for meal kits or outdoor entertaining.

Salads with Seasonal Flair

• Tropical Salad with Grilled Chicken: Bright, refreshing, and anchored by Hellmann’s® Mango Pineapple Vinaigrette. A deli standout for health-conscious summer shoppers.

For more recipe inspiration, check out UFS’s Summer Retail Deli Guide.

Meal Kits: Make It a Party

Retailers are also tapping into the power of prepared meal kits. As Supermarket News notes, more delis are offering full-meal kits outside of winter holidays, creating themed experiences around summer holidays like Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day.

Bundle kebabs, slaws, and dips into a “Grill & Chill Kit” or offer sandwiches and salads in a ready-to-serve catering combo. It’s a smart way to increase basket size while reducing prep time for customers.

Partner with the UFS Culinary Team

No matter the season you’re planning for, the chefs at Unilever Food Solutions are here to help. With decades of experience and a passion for bold, practical flavor, our team—including culinary innovators like Chef Sebastian Rivera and Chef Rudy Smith—can help develop custom solutions that work in real-world deli settings.

Let’s create a menu that drives deli sales, supports labor-saving strategies, and keeps your customers coming back.