Some positive signs have emerged in the Italian market for fresh-cut produce this week, with a number of reports pointing to an increase in consumer interest in buying convenient, ready-to-use fruit and vegetable lines.
According to Italian agricultural organisation Coldiretti, half of all Italian consumers now purchase ready-to-use fresh produce, with each one buying an average of 1.5kg per year and collectively spending over €700m on more than 90,000 tonnes of produce last year.
During the first three months of 2009, sales rose by 11.6 per cent compared with the same period of 2008.
Among the most in-demand products, according to the report, were salads, carrots and mini tomatoes, although trays of fresh-cut, pre-washed fruit are also said to be growing in popularity.
'Among the main consumers of pre-prepared dishes are the 6m single people in Italy, who represent a segment of the population with a lifestyle that involves saving time in favour of work and, above all, pleasure,' said a spokesperson for Coldiretti.
Meanwhile, the latest figures released by ACNielsen suggest the trade in convenience products across Italy during the 12 months to the end of April 2009 reached a total volume of 73,000 tonnes. In value terms, sales reached €607m.
Separately, market research carried out by GDOWeek and convenience salads specialist Bonduelle has revealed that 80 per cent of Italians who shop in modern retail outlets already buy convenience products, with around 40 per cent of them deciding what brands they prefer to buy prior to entering the store.
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