Fresh-cut consumption up 10.2% in Italy

Vegetable consumption increases 5.4% in the first quarter of 2010

During the first quarter of 2010, Italian families bought 10.2% more fresh-cut products compared with the same period of 2009. Fresh vegetable sales also prospered during this 3-month period, showing an increase of 5.4%, according to data from Ismea (Institute of Services for the Agrifood Market).

Overall, household purchases in Italy increased 1.1% in the first three months of 2010. However, general expenses decreased 3.9% due to the fact that retail prices fell 4.9% during this period. 

According to Ismea, during the first quarter of 2010, 70% of all household sales were made in supermarkets and hypermarkets, an increase of 1.3% compared with the previous year. Sales in discounters and small stores increased 8% and 14% respectively, while sales in traditional stores fell 6.8%.

S&G Brassicas Today – June 2010