Food solutions company SpartanNash is launching a new Brat Shop at all Family Fare, D&W Fresh Market and Martin's Super Market stores for summer. The limited-time, in-store destination features a curated selection of bratwurst for customers.

Offerings at the Brat Shop include sweet and smoky Honey BBQ, tangy Pineapple Teriyaki, Taco Cheddar and spicy Hot and Sweet Red Chile, as well as regional-inspired flavors like the Philly Cheesesteak and the Michigander classic brat that offers a cherry-kissed twist.

"Let's be frank, we know that summer memories are made around the grill, and every grill master enjoys a little flex for their guests," said SpartanNash SVP and Chief Marketing Officer Erin Storm. "The Brat Shop helps grillers up their game with a wide range of crowd-pleasing brats. We can't wait for you to discover your favorite new flavor, made fresh daily in our stores."

According to a nationwide survey of 2,000 adults commissioned by SpartanNash and conducted by Talker Research, nearly two-thirds of respondents (66%) consider summer grilling season their favorite time of year, with Gen Z respondents saying more than any other generation that the missing link for the best summer ever is a barbecue. The findings also revealed that 77% of respondents enjoy experimenting with new flavors at cookouts.

In the Midwest—where SpartanNash operates nearly 200 retail grocery stores—42% of respondents said they enjoy eating brats at a barbecue, and of those who eat bratwurst, 51% of Midwesterners eat at least one per month, underscoring the growing appetite for brats.

Consumer preferences are also shifting when it comes to how brats are dressed and served. One in 10 Americans prefers to eat brats plain. Surveyed consumers chose mustard as the top condiment of choice, while younger consumers are increasingly reaching for ketchup, cheese and spicy peppers.

Brat Shop is available through Labor Day weekend.

Source: SpartanNash