Despite an indifferent Scottish summer, UK-wide retail sales in frozen confectionery and ice cream were strong over the last 12 months.
The latest data supplied by Kantar Worldpanel show value growth of 9.4% and 2.5%, respectively, year-on-year for the 52 weeks ending 11th September 2016. Frozen confectionery grew in volume by 4.1%, with total ice cream growing in volume by 3%.
Brian Young, Chief Executive of British Frozen Food Federation, commented: “There is no doubt that the recent heatwaves over summer have driven consumers to the frozen aisle for a cooling treat.”
Young, who is assumed by SLR to live in the south-east of England, added: “The figures are very impressive and also they reflect the hard work put in by the industry to produce the wide range of innovative, great-tasting products now on offer.”
Frozen potato products and frozen fish also saw rises in value sales of 2.1% and 1.5% respectively, suggesting that consumers are now seeking out higher value, premium products as more NPD becomes available.
“The figures suggest that frozen food, as a whole, is able to react to the varied needs of consumers, such as the recent unexpected weather,” said Young.
Young was optimistic as he looked ahead to the festive season, and was confident that “the benefits of frozen food will help drive sales as consumers seek out products that can offer peace of mind at this hectic time by reducing preparation and cooking time, while also offering fantastic quality.”
