Online and Independent Channels Perform Strongly in UK Organic Sector

The UK organic food sector remained flat in 2012 at an overall value of £1.6bn. According to the Soil Association's annual report, supermarket own label ranges declined by 11% as a consequence of significant range rationalisation at the onset of the UK recession. Branded goods meanwhile enjoyed some growth (2.2%).

Dairy brands Yeo Valley and Rachel's Organic and Mondelez International's chocolate brand Green & Black's are examples of products that have reached 'hero status' with consumers.

2012 was a particularly strong year for online organic sales – Sainsbury's reported growth of 48% and Ocado's growth of 6.4% moved them into position as the fourth biggest retailer for organic food in the UK, ahead of Asda and Morrison's. Specialist independent stores and box schemes also showed growth in 2012 and are valued at over £650m.

Just less than 50% of this market is found in London and the South/South West. In September 2013, Bord Bia will once again participate at the Speciality and Fine Food Fair in Olympia.

An information day will be held in Bord Bia on May 9th for companies (conventional and organic) interested in supplying the UK market through the specialist and independent store network and who would like to learn more about participating at the Speciality and Fine Food Fair.

For details and registration please click here.

Source: BordBia - Online and Independent Channels Perform Strongly in UK Organic Sector