Data compiled by Horizons FS Ltd on behalf of the British Frozen Food Federation shows the total value of frozen food purchases increased by 2.4% over the period. Total frozen food purchases were worth £2,261,000 in 2009, compared to £2,209,000 in 2006.
At the same time, the number of outlets in the sector fell by 1.8%. And the number of meals provided by the sector, which includes restaurants, hotels, pubs, institutional and leisure outlets, also fell by 4.4%.
Brian Young, director general of the British Frozen Food Federation, says: “This research makes interesting reading for the frozen food sector. It suggests we have been performing well despite challenging economic times for the foodservice sector. Meal numbers are falling and outlets are falling, yet frozen food sales are holding up well.
“This demonstrates the numerous cost and convenience advantages of using frozen ingredients and prepared meals in the foodservice sector. Chefs are increasingly finding that frozen alternatives offer the opportunity to cut costs while meeting the stringent demands of their customers for high quality, nutritious meals.
“The frozen food market offers foodservice outlets competitive prices, year-round price stability and availability, and opportunities to improve portion control and reduce waste. Using frozen alternatives can also help chefs to reduce kitchen labour costs. And with the quality and taste of frozen food now better than ever thanks to recent improvements in freezing technology, there’s more reasons than ever to make the switch.”
Latest figures for the restaurant sector (including full service and quick service outlets) suggest meal numbers have been falling for these outlets, too, though the number of outlets has risen slightly due in large part to the growth of sandwich and coffee shops. Meal numbers were down 4.1% for full service restaurants over the period, and by 2.8% for quick service outlets.
Brian Young adds: “People do seem to be eating out less and the restaurant sector does seem to be feeling the effects of the recession despite the growth in outlets. We’re pleased with how the frozen food sector is performing in this challenging market.”
Source: British Frozen Food Federation
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