CONSUMER TRENDS

Special Report: PMA’s 2017 Glimpse into the Future

PMA’s “Glimpse into the Future” report identifies issues and trends that are likely to affect the global fresh produce and floral industries in the next three to five years. It was developed from information gathered by the PMA Research team, in conjunction with members and volunteer leaders worldwide, as well as global subject matter experts.

As Consumers Opt for Healthier Lifestyles, Fresh Food is King

According to a 2017 Reuters/Ipsos survey, about 72 percent of Americans cook from home at least four nights a week. Meanwhile, 40 percent of Americans now work from home all or part of the week, so they’re going out to lunch less. And many consumers are trying to eat healthier, fresher, and consume less processed foods. When you consider these factors, it should come as no surprise that fresh foods are now driving total store sales and produce is a major contributor to that growth.

Top 20 Fruits and Vegetables Sold in the U.S.

Consumers are eating more fruits and vegetables than they did five years ago, according to The Packer 2017 Fresh Trends. The chart below provides an overview of the most popular fruits and vegetables purchased, based on the percentage of primary shoppers buying in the last 12 months in the U.S.

Trends Influencing Consumers’ Menu Choices in 2017

Restaurant industry sales are forecasted to reach US $799 billion in 2017, a 1.7 percent gain (adjusted for inflation) over the industry’s estimated 2016 sale, according to the National Restaurant Association’s “Restaurant Industry Outlook 2017”. Significant variance among geographic regions and industry segments will affect restaurant sales performance, with quick service and fast-casual sales expected to total US $233.7 billion in 2017, a 5.3 percent gain over 2016 sales volume.

Infographic: Retailer Meal Solutions

Fresh prepared foods at retail are a bright spot in the U.S. food and beverage industry – sales have been exploding over the past five years. This US $26 billion market has experienced growth that is outpacing that of both retail and packaged goods, as well as foodservice, with expectations for even greater gains. This Technomic infographic shows some of the numbers driving the biggest trend in supermarkets.