'Experimental' Brits splash the cash on premium

The average Brit is more likely than ever to load their trolley full of premium products. This is reflected by the growth of the specialty products such as hand-made, origin specific food, drink and personal care products. The growing taste for luxury is set to become more pronounced as consumers continue to experiment, self-reward and seek out satisfying experiences.

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A Mars a day to keep the doctor away?

Mars has unveiled a new product range that claims to satisfy chocolate lovers' cravings while also being good for the heart. With obesity on the rise, and following clampdowns on junk food in US and European schools, entering the health foods market could be a good move. However, Mars is not the only one to realize this, meaning it could face stiff competition.

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ACSI: consumer satisfaction takes a hit

The latest results of the American Customer Satisfaction Index reveal that consumers have grown less satisfied with food companies over the last year. This is the first time a decline has occurred since 2007. It has been attributed to rising food prices, as well as a "slippage" in quality. Manufacturers should take heed that consumers are clearly becoming more demanding following the recession.

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AG Barr: diversifying its portfolio has proven fruitful

AG Barr has made the biggest purchase in its history through the acquisition of Rubicon, continuing its diversification away from fizzy drinks into stronger growth sectors. The company's move into juices and other healthy beverage sectors is wise: as consumers demand healthier beverages to fit in with healthier lifestyles, these sectors continue to display better growth potential than carbonates.

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AG Barr: strong growth in 2009/10 sales gives hope to firms in the industry

AG Barr expects sales for 2009/10 to reach GBP220m, with profits also set to increase. The group has performed well despite difficult conditions in a category that continues to be maligned due to health concerns. Soft drinks remain affordable and occasional treats in the eyes of consumers, and this success further shows that companies in the sector can still prosper during recession.

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Ahold touted as rumored Tesco target

Tesco shares fell three pence to 315p yesterday amid market rumours that the company may make a significant acquisition in Europe. Brokers are reported by The Times to have been unconvinced by suggestions that the retailer will join with Kohlberg Kravis Roberts to bid for Ahold, with others suggesting Carrefour as a more credible target.

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Ajinomoto: aiming to make gains in the downturn with frozen rice

Japanese food company Ajinomoto is aiming to capitalize on the economic downturn by increasing its frozen rice business in the US. This strategy has a good chance of panning out well for the company, given that the downturn has meant that Americans are increasingly eating at home and looking to frozen products as cost-saving alternatives to fresh foods.

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Albertsons: exotic offerings are a wealth of opportunity

US superstore chain Albertsons posted Q1 results ahead of analysts' expectations, with the retailer citing the Shaw's acquisition and recovery from a strike as key growth drivers. However the chain faces stiff competition both from high-end retailers and discount stores, yet its decision to target increasingly cosmopolitan consumer tastes should offer a means to counter this.

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Alcohol consumption: young adults fuel the on-trade

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Alcohol: the WHO's policy on alcohol tax could spell danger for industry

Higher prices for alcohol are being advocated by the World Health Organization as an effective method of reducing abuse of the substance, in what could be another blow for an industry that has suffered in several countries during the global recession. More price rises could exacerbate the situation for many brewers, which will need to budget carefully if taxes rise again.

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