WILLIAMSVILLE, N.Y. – Tops Friendly Markets, a leading, full-service grocery retailer, today announced its latest tips on hosting a successful viewing party for Sunday’s big game. In its 54 years of service, Tops Friendly Markets has seen and served its shoppers through every Super Bowl to date. During this time, Tops has continued to meet the ever-changing demands of the consumer and offers the following tips, based on industry trends, to ‘S.C.O.R.E.” this Super Bowl Sunday.

S: Salty Snacks: According to a report from IRI, a leading provider of big data, predictive analytics and forward-looking insights, American shoppers spent a combined $438 million on salty snacks the week leading up to the big game. Chips, pretzels, cheese twists and more, salty snacks have become the centerpiece of viewing parties. Pairing these with creative dips provides the consumer with endless flavor combinations.

C: Cheeses: IRI also found that in 2015, during the week prior to the Super bowl, consumers spent more than $277 million on natural cheese. Cheese trays and charcuterie platters are still a hit among football party-goers as they offer a variety of different flavors and textures. O: Overtime Planning: In the case that the fourth quarter ends and the score is tied, entertainers must be prepared to have enough food to continue serving to their guests. Having an extra dessert or dish to pass throughout the extended time provides peace of mind from what could be a stressful situation.

R: Refreshments: IRI reports that beer is a definitive leader in sales prior to the big game: last year, in the one week before Sunday’s kickoff, beer sales totaled $583 million nationwide. Offering a variety of brand classics as well as craft beers offer satisfaction to the many unique palettes that attend a viewing party.

E: Entree: While snacks, beer and cheese are essential to include in the spread, remember to include the cornerstone of the menu: the entrée. While the food possibilities are endless, it’s always a safe move to stick to the classics like chili, meatball sandwiches or, if weather permits, grilled hamburgers and hot dogs. Of course, it is critical to bear in mind the dietary restrictions of your guests including vegetarians, those with gluten intolerances and other restrictions.

For recipe ideas, shoppers can visit www.topsmarkets.com/recipes/index.

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Tops Markets, LLC, is headquartered in Williamsville, NY and operates 167 full-service supermarkets – 162 company-owned and five franchise locations. With more than 16,000 associates, Tops is a leading full-service grocery retailer in upstate New York, northern Pennsylvania and western Vermont. For more information about Tops Markets, visit the company's website at www.topsmarkets.com.

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