Consumer demand for organics is expected to double by 2010
UK - Sales of organic produce almost doubled in value between 2000 and 2005 passing the £1bn mark for the first time and are forecast to top £2bn by 2010.Consumer research from Mintel reveals that Britain's organic food and drink market grew by 94% over the five year period climaxing in sales of £1.2bn.
Consequently, the number of British adults claiming never to have purchased organic produce fell from 37% in 2003 to 29% in 2005.
In the past organic produce was considered the preserve of the better off middle classes but the latest research shows that organic food and drink is appealing to a wider cross-section of society.
Amongst those who have purchased organic produce in the last 12 months, there is in fact surprisingly little difference between the better off ABs and those in the middle income C1 group (see table below for a breakdown of socio-economic classes).
This is particularly true when it comes to fresh staples such as fruit (59% for ABs vs 53% for C1), vegetables (59% vs 58%), dairy (32% vs 26%) and meat (33% vs 26%).
“Although the organics market is now reasonably mature, sales are being driven by consumer interest in healthy eating, locally sourced produce and concern for the environment and food safety,” said Julie Sloan, market analyst at Mintel.
“Despite the fact that organic products account for little more than 1% of overall food and drink sales, there is no doubt that these products have 'joined the mainstream'.
“Indeed, organic ranges are now available from all the major multiples, and the majority of households do buy organic food, even if some are only doing so occasionally,” added Ms Sloan.
Source: FWi
22 December 2005
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