‘Tis the Season for LTO Honey-Sweetened Products

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In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift in consumer behavior toward limited time offer (LTO) or seasonal products. Whether it's limited-edition pumpkin spice lattes in fall or exclusive floral flavors in spring, shoppers are increasingly drawn to products that are available only at certain times of the year.

Seasonal honey products present an exciting opportunity to showcase the diversity and versatility of honey while tapping into a growing consumer demand for unique, time-limited experiences. Plus, seasonal honey products offer brands a way to diversify their offerings, create buzz around their LTO product, and connect with consumers in a way that feels fresh, innovative and relevant.

Honey Bunches of Oats Frosted Bunches, Post

A twist on the classic Honey Bunches of Oats, this breakfast cereal features granola clusters with sweet frosted cereal flakes for a delicious combination. One of the primary reasons seasonal products are trending is the sense of exclusivity they offer. Consumers are looking for products that feel special, limited and fleeting. This winter favorite creates a sense of urgency and excitement for the “once a year” special.

Photo Credit: Post
Photo Credit: Kettle Brand

Special Sauce Chips, Kettle Brand

This LTO brought a one-of-a-kind combination of sweet tang and light heat into a crunchy kettle-cooked chip that Kettle Brand is known for. This chip is a way for the brand to offer something that’s uniquely tied to flavors, scents and experiences of a particular season—in this case May’s National BBQ Month and Memorial Day Weekend.

Limited Edition Honey Butter Almonds, Blue Diamond

Inspired by Korean honey butter chips, these honey-sweetened snack almonds are positioned as a limited-time-only experience. Consumers are no longer just buying products, but the experience that goes along with them. They’re looking for products that tell a story, evoke emotions and transport them to a different time or place.

Photo Credit: Blue Diamond
Photo Credit: Pop Art

Seasonal Honey Kettle Corn, Pop Art

Holidays and traditions are powerful drivers of consumer behavior. Seasonal honey products are often tied to specific holidays or cultural celebrations, making them the perfect gift or treat for consumers during these times of year. For example, if consumers use Honey Kettle Corn to trim the tree or as a holiday snack, their Christmas is now associated with the sweetness of this product.

Limited Edition Pumpkin Spice Bar, Honey Mama’s

Honey is extremely versatile, and the potential to create customized flavors during different seasons gives product developers the ability to cater to specific consumer desires. Honey Mama’s creates a custom blend of honey, spices and heirloom pumpkin seeds that surround bar lovers in all that is the limited opportunity of autumn.

Photo Credit: Honey Mama's

As seasonal and LTO products continue to trend, manufacturers have a unique opportunity to tap into consumer desires for exclusivity, novelty and meaningful experiences. By offering products for a limited time, brands can create excitement, build loyalty and increase consumer demand year-round.

The future of LTO honey-sweetened products is bright! What do you have planned for a limited time in 2025?