Frozen food is hot stuff, say new figures
Latest retail frozen food statistics have shown a third quarter of growth for the sector, which is up by 3.6 per cent in value.
Covering all product types including meat, ice cream and ready meals, the category has shown resilience in challenging economic times. And that’s great news for the industry, says Brian Young, director general of the British Frozen Food Federation.
“It has been a difficult 12 months for manufacturers and consumers alike. However, manufacturers have continued to invest in their products and processes, and consumers have reaped the benefits of huge variety, excellent value and great-tasting products,” he says.
The biggest area of growth in volume has been in the frozen fish sector – which is up by 4.1%.
“Big brands have bolstered the category by introducing premium products, investing in advertising and attaining endorsements from well-loved celebrity chefs,” adds Young. “Many branded and supermarket own-label frozen fish products also carry MSC accreditation. Sustainability is of growing importance to consumers – due to fishing practices and species availability being documented in the media."
Other success stories highlighted in the results include frozen meat and poultry. The area has finally come out of decline and is up by 2.8% in value and 2.9% in volume.