The retail grocery market was valued at €10.2m in the year ending period to September 2016 which was a growth of 3% on the previous year. The fresh produce category now makes up 16% of this total grocery spend. In 2016 the fresh produce market was valued at €1.496 billion. The value of this category has increased by 13% over the past two years. Fruit accounts for €709 million, vegetables €585 million and potatoes €201 million. Increases in the average price and frequency of purchase in all three categories contributed to the increase in the value of the retail market in 2016.
The value of the retail potato market showed the greatest increase growing at 24% while the value of the fruit and vegetable segments of the market grew by 10% and 3% respectively. Volume growth was also recorded across the three fresh produce categories. Ten percent of all grocery shopping trips feature potatoes. These trips contribute 22% of all the grocery sales. When potatoes are included in the basket, these grocery trips are worth more than average highlighting the importance of the potato category to retailers.
For further detailed information on the fresh produce retail market contact mike.neary@bordbia.ie
