Mars unveils video to help retailers boost chocolate sales

Mars Chocolate North America has introduced a new set of planning tools to help retailers develop their marketing strategies and build chocolate sales.



The new resources include the 2014 Moments Calendar Video, year-long display programs, a convenience channel 2014 Planning Toolkit, a revamped Mars24seven.com and the Performance Plus Rewards Program.



"We're making it easy for our retail partners to create marketing and merchandising programs that will grow the chocolate category," Mars VP sales Rick LaBerge said. "Mars' global research shows that retailers can capture the under-developed 'sharing occasions' in the U.S. market. Here in the United States, chocolate is part of only 10% of sharing occasions, while other countries incorporate chocolate into more social activities."



Promotional periods for 2014 will include Snickers Brand Super Bowl Satisfaction, the "Share Your Favorites" campaign, Win the M-Ball with M&M's Brand, Summer Movie Moment, Snickers Brand NFL Game Day Satisfaction and Share the Joy for the holiday season. The Mars 2014 Moments Calendar Video illustrates the six promotional periods.



The year-long display programs include themes featuring the M&Ms, Snickers, Twix and Milky Way brands, with chances to win free gas cards and Snickers bars.