Sales of organic food and beverages continue to rise despite the current complex situation marked by cost-of-living pressures. This was stated at the Organic Trade Conference, held online last October.
As reported in a recent article published in FoodNavigator USA, the data presented at the conference showed that some organic products were outperforming their non-organic counterparts in terms of growth.
Specifically, sales in volume and value increased. In the UK, for example, the value of organic sales grew by 6.4%, while non-organic sales achieved only a 5.4% increase. Another relevant fact presented at the virtual event organized by the Soil Association was that more than two-thirds of shoppers (69%) looked for organic or sustainable logos when making a purchase.
When asked why consumers are buying more organic products, journalist Nicholas Robinson highlighted in his article that consumers increasingly value organic logos and certifications. Referring to a study by the consultancy firm Mintel, consumers are reportedly willing to pay more for organic foods, with young people aged 25 to 32 being the most predisposed.
According to NielsenIQ data, although the cost of living still concerns 29% of consumers, it no longer appears to be one of the population’s main concerns, as two years ago it was 57%. Meanwhile, concerns about health and wellness have risen from 11% to 28%.
In this regard, Alex Cullen, Certification Director at the Soil Association, pointed out: “There have been some tough times, and challenges remain, but it’s fantastic to see the sector recovering from the impacts of the cost-of-living crisis as buyers seek the wellness and sustainability credentials that organic products provide.”
According to Michaël Wilde, founder and organic ambassador at The Organic Embassy: “The UK must accelerate its pace if its food and drink sector wants to compete with the EU’s organic strategy.” He added: “It’s clear that there are still many challenges to overcome, particularly the growing polarization between the intensive food sector and the combined organic and regenerative sectors. But I am optimistic about the future and the leadership we are taking in Europe.”
Reference article: Why shoppers are turning towards costly organic food and drink (FoodNavigator USA)
Subscribe to Bio Eco Actual Newsletter and be up to date with the latest news from the Organic Sector
Bio Eco Actual, International Organic Newspaper
Read Bio Eco Actual
