Irish consumers are seeking more information about food producers and traceability according to a new food industry report unveiled last week.
The report, ‘Driving and Mobilising Growth by Leveraging Irish Food and Food Tourism’ describes customers as gravitating towards local businesses they can trust.
Produced by Good Food Ireland and Grant Thornton, the report also highlights the effect the horsemeat scandal has had on the food industry in Ireland, and how labeling deception is widespread across Europe.
Speaking at the launch of the report Ciara Jackson, head of food at Grant Thornton said, “The report shows that 97 per cent of Good Food Ireland businesses expect higher turnover in 2013, with the horsemeat scandal to play a significant role in driving this growth. The survey also shows strong support for regulation that places renewed emphasis on traceability and provenance.”
As part of the report, a survey of over 600 Good Food Ireland-approved providers was carried out, which found that 97 per cent expect their turnover to increase or remain the same in 2013, while 88 per cent expect an increase in profit this year.
Margaret Jeffares, Managing Director of Good Food Ireland, said, “Good Food Ireland businesses can expect to benefit as consumers increasingly vote with their wallets and choose to buy quality food they can trust. The specialty food market in the Republic of Ireland is valued at €450 million, and this figure is set to increase as Irish consumers are showing a heightened interest in artisan foods.” (16 April)
© 2013 - ESM: European Supermarket Magazine
