The latest market data looks at the 52 weeks to 8 December 2013 and shows that frozen food continues to show some positive signs, despite a tough 12 months for the industry.
The statistics, compiled by Kantar Worldpanel, offer the first accurate indication of the impact of criminality on the food industry in the last year. While some sectors of the market have had a tough year, others have excelled, with potato products seeing a value growth of 10% year-on-year.
Frozen meat and poultry has shown resilience in a tough climate with a 5% value and 2.8% volume growth year-on-year as consumers continue to see the benefits of frozen produce. Similarly, frozen vegetables have continued to see success, with a 5.1% value and 1.1% volume growth.
Commenting on the statistics, Brian Young, director general of British Frozen Food Federation, said: “It is important to notice that these statistics are set against a backdrop of a struggling retail sector and tough economic environment. The fact that frozen food has seen any growth at all is testament to the commitment shown by brands and retailers to expanding frozen NPD.”
To further demonstrate frozen foods’ resilience, the long, hot summer in 2013 sparked an impressive year for the ice cream sector. This particular product group saw a 3.4% volume growth year-on-year and a 6.8% value growth year-on-year, bringing its value to nearly £830m.
“These statistics show for the first time the full impact of criminal infiltration into the food supply chain early in 2013,” said Young. “A drop in both volume and value year-on-year in the ready meals sector shows that consumers have lost confidence in processed meats. It is vital that brands, manufacturers and retailers now start to reposition this sector and regain consumers’ trust in processed foods.”
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