Labelling
Clean labelling to become clear labelling
Innova Market Insights revealed the top five trends that will dominate the food and drink industry in 2015:
Top of the list was labelling – as Innova anticipate a move from ‘clean’ labels to ‘clear’ ones – something which Innova suggest has already started to happen. As the government brought in new labelling guidelines at the beginning of December. As one of the world’s leading suppliers of labels and labelling machines and software, product labelling is something we understand only too well at Bizerba and we like to ensure that we are always one step ahead of the latest labelling trends, with our easy to use software and innovative labelling systems.
Lu Ann Williams, director of innovation at Innova describes the move as a key trend, set to continue into 2015:
“The top trend – ‘from clean to clear label’ – had already gained attention from many major food and drink companies this year. Nearly a quarter of all food and beverage launches this year highlighted ‘naturalness’ and ‘origin’ in their product description, for instance. But, there was a need for more clarity on the definition of ‘natural’’ before the trend could really grow…reflecting a move to clearer and simpler claims and packaging for maximum transparency.”
Convenience products for foodies
The second item on the list is ‘convenience for foodies’ – promoted by an increased interest in home cooking by consumers, as Williams explains:
“It is seen as fashionable, fun and social, as well as healthy and cost-effective, it has driven demand for a greater choice of fresh foods, ingredients for cooking from scratch and a wider use of recipe suggestions by manufacturers and retailers.”
Marketing to ‘millennials’
‘Millenials’ are the age group of consumers aged 15 to 35. They comprise around 30% of the global population. Tech-savvy and want to connect with products and brands and learn about the story behind them. Williams describes the third item on the list – marketing to millennials – as the key focus area because this group are well informed and want to try something different.
Labelling & Marketing
Again, some areas of the food industry have already recognised this and are targeting the group. For example, the Welsh meat body HCC recently announced at their conference. Lamb to be targeted at a younger audience, with more convenient products available.
Williams suggests that the best way to engage millennial consumers is through technology. That this is vital as they are generally less brand loyal than older consumers.
Snacks for specific occasions and good fats and good carbs
Furthermore a decline in formal dining and the growth of snack foods. Suggest that producers will be developing more snack foods. For specific occasions and there will be greater interest in ‘good’ fats and carbs due to increased concerns over obesity.
“There is a growing emphasis on unsaturated and natural fats and oils. That has seen rising interest in omega-3 fatty acid content. As well as the return of butter to favour as a natural, tasty alternative to artificial margarine’s.”
Bizerba’s innovative technology and software for the food industry are constantly developing and evolving to meet these complex market trends. Whether you want to create clearer labels or formulate convenience foods for millennials. We have the technology to help you get ahead of the competition. Contact us to find out more.
