Is your range fit for the future? Does your pricing model stack up given the supply challenges ahead? We asked one of our FDReviews Experts, Stuart Gates, for his thoughts...
At the time of writing, projects that I am engaged with are feeling the effects of the ongoing supply issues which is very frustrating for all involved and will require careful planning ahead in 2022.
Retail contacts tell me they are still trading well, and customers still “hooked” buying delicious foods from the independent trade, delis, and farm shops.
2022 I believe will be a year that will have opportunities, but producers will have to take a second look at their ranges, business models and routes to market.
In addition, what I have gleaned speaking with start-ups in 2020/2021 is that pricing models have not thought through, and this is key to making sales and profit.
Foodservice is making a return and consumers wanting to try new tastes so research potential local businesses looking for alternatives not available from the larger wholesalers.
Finally, please remember 2023 is not that far away!! - SG
A lifetime involved with the fine food and laterally the British artisan food industry. Stuart has seen the industry from all aspects including buying, retail and working closely with many producers at all stages of their business development. One of the founders and former Chair of the Guild of Fine Food and closely linked with the Great Taste Awards since their creation. A regular contributor to various trade magazines and recorded and produced podcasts and essays through his Seasoned Grocer training company. Mentored many start-ups across the UK and the Republic of Ireland through various government agencies. Many brands supported and assisted with growth both at home from Rock Rose Gin to Gower Cottage Brownies. In addition, developed many specialist producers to create own label exclusive recipes for private label for Fortnum & Mason, Harrods, Daylesford and Partridges of Sloane Square.
Experience:
Fortnum & Mason – Director of Food /Managing Director
Harrods From Trainee Buyer to Deputy Food Director
Daylesford Organic- General Manager
Guild of Fine Food – Previous Chair and Great Taste Judge
Partridges of Sloane Square, Own label development
The Seasoned Grocer – Business Support and mentoring to speciality/artisan producers
Specialist Subjects:
Speciality Retail
Food Halls
Buyer Events
Consumer Events
Export sales
Airport trading
Food Service
Hampers
While you are here, please take time to have a look around FDReviews.com and see where the team might help you over the coming months.
Food product development can be a costly business. Many companies rely on a few key individuals for their ideas which are largely 'road tested' by other members of the team.
It's difficult for this development cycle to remain both subjective and exhaustive enough to give the product the best chance of success.
FDReviews is an innovative service. By tapping into our Food & Drink experts, you can get honest and impartial views on your products in early development as well as directions on how to make them right for the consumer market.