The pandemic forced people everywhere to spend tremendous amounts of time confined to their homes, and with that came a huge surge in backyard hobbies. Birding is one of the top-growing hobbies in the US, according to Pet Business. “Wild Bird feeding is a top 10 hobby and growing, especially since COVID hit in 2020. The relaxing aspect of feeding wild birds has helped in a very stressful time. Getting into creating a wild bird environment is relatively easy and affordable,” says Mike Chiaromonte of Volkman Pet Products.

 

Choosing the Right Food

 

Do you know how many bird species are out there? I don’t, but the internet says over 11,000. Now, do you know how many types of bird food choices are out there? Not quite 11,000, but there’s an overwhelming number of options. With so many choices, how do you know what products to stock in your store?

 

“A wide range of customers have flooded the retailers looking for environmentally friendly ways to spruce up their yards,” Chiaromonte says, adding “As a seed supplier, the trend is toward more waste-free mixes.” Additionally, retailers should consider the types of birds customers want to attract and then tailor their products accordingly. “Products should cater to different size birds in a variety of feeds that include seeds, fruit, and insect-based mixes to help attract the widest assortment of birds,” says Kristy Grejdus, sales and marketing assistant for F.M. Brown. “Retailers should also consider the style of feeders they stock. Larger birds prefer platforms where they can land comfortably, while small birds can perch on a tube feeder.”

 

Getting Repeat Customers

 

Set your customers up for success by educating them on the right choices and turning them into repeat customers. “Knowledge of ingredients in mixes and the types of birds in the community is key. Knowing what items are more attractive to wild birds will keep the birds coming back for more. There are excellent resources like the Wild Bird Feeding Institute that help educate consumers. A good seed supplier can assist, too,” recommends Chiaromonte.

“Consumers can turn their yards into a one-stop bird oasis by providing a water source, planting native plants, and placing feeders near a tree, shrub, or bird house for shelter. Also, feeders should be cleaned regularly with a mild detergent or water/bleach that is diluted. This helps prevent the spread of disease,” says Chiaromonte.

 

Boosting Sales at the Register

 

Drive sales by using the same tools and strategies for traditional pet products on your birding products. Chiaromonte says retailers should “recommend Wild Bird products when a customer is checking out. Like most other products, visibility is key in any retail location. Also, having a frequent buyer or club card offering an everyday discount can bring customers back to a retailer frequently.”

 

The growing popularity of wild birds is a huge chance to become a one-stop shop destination for all bird enthusiasts and animal lovers in general. “Many people who feed wild birds also have dogs, cats, and other pets. As long as they stock a variety of foods and feeders and place them in a well-organized and prominent location in their stores, they will attract customers,” says Brown. You won't want to miss out on this growing popularity!

 

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