Packaged Salami, Sausage & Bacon (Global, 2024)
Introduction
Salami, sausages and bacon in packages is undergoing a dynamic evolution. This is a result of changing consumer preferences, new product launches and the growing demand for convenience foods. As consumers seek more and more tasty, high-quality and ready-to-eat protein sources, the demand for meats in packages is growing. This has led to the development of a wide range of products and the introduction of new marketing strategies. Also, the growing trend towards healthier eating habits has led to a noticeable shift towards products that are considered to be healthier, such as those made with organic or natural ingredients. Also, the growing popularity of e-commerce and the emergence of e-groceries has led to new distribution channels and new marketing opportunities. The salami, sausages and bacon market is a dynamic and changing market, and as it evolves, it is important for all those involved to understand the underlying dynamics.
PESTLE Analysis
- Political
- In 2024, the market for smoked meats, sausages, and bacon will be influenced by several political factors, such as trade policies and food safety regulations. The European Union has tightened food safety standards, and meat products must be tracked from farm to table, which will affect producers who will have to invest in compliance. Similarly, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has increased funding for meat inspection programs by 12%, which equates to $ 1,5 billion, to ensure food safety and quality assurance in the meat industry.
- Economic
- The economic background of the market for processed salami, sausages and bacon in 2024 is influenced by the influence of the inflation and the spending habits of consumers. The CPI of domestic food consumption increased by 4.5% compared to the previous year, which led to a rise in prices of meat products. Moreover, the average annual household spending on meat products is expected to reach $ 1,200, mainly due to the growing preference of consumers for premium and organic meat, which are more expensive than conventional products.
- Social
- In 2024, social trends will strongly influence the market for processed sausages, hams and bacons, especially with the increasing demand for plant-based alternatives. A survey shows that about one-third of consumers are actively reducing their meat consumption, and about one-quarter of them are flexitarians. This shift is forcing traditional meat producers to diversify and change their range of products, and 15% of them have already introduced hybrid or plant-based products to meet the changing preferences and trends of consumers.
- Technological
- The salami, sausage and bacon market is increasingly being influenced by technological developments, particularly in the areas of production efficiency and food safety. In 2024, the level of automation in meat-processing plants is expected to increase by 20 per cent. The benefits of this will be increased productivity and lower labour costs. In addition, the implementation of blockchain technology to improve transparency in the supply chain is on the rise. By 2024, 40 per cent of major meat-processing companies will have invested in this technology in order to enhance the traceability of their products and to increase consumers’ trust in the origins of the meat.
- Legal
- The determinants of the market for the salami, sausage and bacon market in 2024 are the new labeling regulations and the requirements of hygiene and health standards. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a mandatory nutritional labeling for all meat products, which is expected to affect all packaged meats by the end of the year. The non-compliance with this regulation is punishable with fines of up to $ 10,000 per omission, so companies are eager to meet these regulations to avoid legal consequences.
- Environmental
- The market for salami, sausage and bacon is increasingly influenced by the environment, in particular in terms of its sustainable practices. The meat industry is under pressure to reduce its carbon footprint by 2024. Annual emissions of greenhouse gases from meat production are estimated at 7.1 billion tons of carbon dioxide equivalent. In response, 35% of meat companies are investing in sustainable agriculture and renewable energy sources to reduce their carbon footprint and meet the demand for sustainable products.
Porter's Five Forces
- Threat of New Entrants
- Markets for bottled salami, sausages and bacon have medium barriers to entry, mainly due to the regulatory requirements and the need for a distribution network. New entrants can exploit niches and new products, but are challenged by strong market presence and customer loyalty.
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- The suppliers of the canned meat industry generally have low bargaining power, because of the wide availability of raw materials, such as meat and spices. The presence of large meat-packing companies and the ease with which manufacturers can change suppliers, are two of the factors that put buyers in a strong bargaining position.
- Bargaining Power of Buyers
- Market Concentration Moderate High The salami, sausage and bacon market is characterised by a large number of brands and products. Combined with the fact that consumers are becoming increasingly health-conscious, and are demanding better quality, the risk of consumers switching to alternative products is high. This makes it essential for manufacturers to focus on quality, price and marketing strategies in order to maintain customer loyalty.
- Threat of Substitutes
- In this market the threat of substitutes is high, because consumers can easily turn to alternative sources of protein, such as plant-based meats, poultry or fish. Also, dietary preferences and a trend towards healthier eating are likely to lead consumers to turn to substitutes rather than to traditional processed meats.
- Competitive Rivalry
- Competition in the branded salami, sausage, and bacon market is intense, with many established brands competing for market share. Companies compete on various factors, including product quality, price, innovation, and marketing. A combination of large and small producers has further increased competition, driving innovation and differentiation.
SWOT Analysis
Strengths
- Strong brand loyalty among consumers for established products.
- Diverse product offerings catering to various dietary preferences, including organic and gluten-free options.
- Robust distribution networks ensuring product availability in both retail and online channels.
Weaknesses
- High production costs due to raw material prices and regulatory compliance.
- Perception of processed meats being unhealthy, leading to declining consumer interest.
- Limited innovation in product development compared to other food categories.
Opportunities
- Growing demand for premium and artisanal meat products among health-conscious consumers.
- Expansion into emerging markets with increasing disposable incomes and changing dietary habits.
- Potential for product diversification, including plant-based alternatives and ready-to-eat meals.
Threats
- Intensifying competition from both traditional meat producers and plant-based alternatives.
- Regulatory pressures regarding health claims and labeling requirements.
- Economic downturns affecting consumer spending on premium packaged meats.
Summary
The Packaged Salami, Sausages and Bacon Market in 2024 will be characterized by strong brand loyalty and a broad product range, which will be a major strength. But high production costs and a poor health image will pose a challenge. Opportunities will come from the growing demand for premium products and the possibility of expanding the market. Competition and regulatory pressures will pose a threat to growth. Companies will need to focus on innovation and diversification to succeed.