No one could have predicted the impact that COVID-19 could have had on the world this time last year. This global pandemic has changed the lives of many, and it is far from over even now in September 2020. For many industries, things will never be the same and a large number of businesses will not be opening their doors ever again. The food industry market has been heavily impacted by COVID-19 in a number of ways. Read on to hear how the past few months have been for companies operating in this industry.
Increased Health & Safety Precautions
One of the main ways in which COVID-19 has affected the food industry market involves the manufacturing side of things. From the very beginning, factories across the country were required to either shut their doors or implement strict health and safety measures. Social distancing became a buzz word almost immediately and some products simply needed to stop production due to health risks. While it is unlikely that factories will maintain the same levels of precautions in a post-COVID world, we could see this improved hygiene continue into the future. This only puts the food industry market in a good position.
Changes in Consumer Eating Habits
According to a report published by Food Standards Scotland, the eating and purchasing habits of consumers in Scotland have changed as a result of COVID-19. Around 35% of people surveyed stated that they were buying less or no processed foods. 28% stated that they were eating healthier meals more and 33% were eating fewer takeaways. Interestingly, 37% stated that they were snacking more on products that were high in fat, salt and sugar.
These changes in consumer habits might appear minimal but they are shaping the food industry market. With more consumers eating healthier meals but unhealthy snacks, companies within the food industry must take note and adapt.
Government Initiatives
The food industry hasn’t just been hit on the manufacturing side of things. Back in March, restaurants across the UK were forced to close, cutting their income entirely. According to a recent report, around 300,000 pubs and restaurants in the UK will remain closed regardless of lockdown easing. With these locations closed, the impact is much greater as suppliers on the manufacturing side experience reduced demand for products.
In an attempt to get things back on track, the UK government announced some initiatives including ‘Eat Out to Help Out’. This initiative in August 2020 allowed restaurants to offer 50% off their menu from Monday – Wednesday with the government subsidising the rest. Over 72,000 businesses in the UK took advantage of this and sales increased dramatically on those days.
Will Things Get Back on Track?
The food industry market has seen some big changes over recent months, but things are starting to get back on track. Many food manufacturers across the UK have managed to reopen and meet government guidelines on hygiene and safety. As members of the public head out to restaurants more often, the demand for these products is increasing. Suppliers must maintain connections with clients in order to make it through to 2021 without too much disruption.
Get in Touch with Who Knows Ltd
Who Knows Ltd has continued to operate safely and in line with government guidelines throughout COVID-19. We know that many food manufacturers have had their supply chain disrupted over the past few months which can be incredibly difficult to deal with. If you are looking for freshly squeezed fruit juice or puree for your food products, get in touch today to request a free sample
