July 18, 2007—Ice that is chewable, as opposed to traditional cube ice, gets high marks from university students. A study conducted by market research students at DeSales University showed that Follett Corporation’s Chewblet ice was preferred by almost 2-to-1 by students for their fountain beverages. The market research students found that 63% of the primarily 17 to 22 year olds surveyed preferred Chewblet to cubes. Almost 80% of participants surveyed like the texture, appearance, size, shape, and chewability of Chewblet ice. Chewable ice is made with a different process than cube ice; it compresses tiny flakes of ice to produce a softer ice that is easier to chew.
“Clearly,” said Dr. Sue McGorry, associate professor at the Center Valley, PA, university, “our findings demonstrate the tremendous potential for Chewblet ice to complement other products, such as fountain beverages, to attract young adults and provide significant lifetime customer value to retailers.” The study was conducted under the direction of Dr. McGorry.
The DeSales findings are similar to other market research studies that show preference for Chewblet ice averages 70%. Follett’s Chewblet icemakers are energy and water efficient, qualify for rebates under the California utility rebate programs, and reduce water consumption by more than 30% compared to typical cube-type machines. Follet also claims it filling process improves sanitation and safety.
For more information visit the Follett Web site as well as its FMLink ad .
