In the midst of the recession, more consumers are opting for at-home entertainment, which is good news for the salty snacks category. This trend may account for a jump in sales of chips and popcorn, the quintessential counterparts for an at-home movie. 

Last year, salty snack sales totaled $4,962 with a profit of $1,867, a 3.6% gross margin increase from 2007, making salty snacks the 6th most profitable category, according the 2009 NACS State of the Industry report, which polled 156 convenience store chains representing more than 20,500.

The category was up 6.2% in sales, and 17% in profits compared to 2007. Salty snack sales made up 3.5% of inside sales and 4.2% of average monthly sales, which totaled $36,466.

When it comes to snacking, healthy options still are high on consumers’ minds. Randy Adams, buyer for Huck’s Food and Fuel in Carmi, Ill., has noticed the trend. “The healthier items in these last couple of sets I’ve brought in have also been the bestsellers,” he noted.

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