Specialty Food Promotion Event Highlights Opportunities in the UK Market

Submitted by Joan Puate Puy on 08 August 2024

Specialty Food Promotion Event

On July 12, 2024, the "Online Internationalisation Session: Sell More and Sell Better in the UK Market" was held, attracting 91 participants. Promoted by the Smart Food Cluster and managed by the Lithuanian Food Exporters Association (LITMEA), this session showcased the Epicentre Program, providing a comprehensive roadmap for SMEs aiming to enter the UK market.

Key Highlights:

  • Macro Trends: The presentation covered key consumer trends such as the rise in food-on-the-go, the popularity of “eating in” over dining out, and a growing demand for authentic and sustainable products, particularly Caribbean, Eastern European, and Mexican cuisines.
  • Retail Opportunities: Detailed insights were provided into the UK grocery market, noting that it is the most heavily promoted market globally. Key segments include grocery multiples like Tesco and Sainsbury's, grocery discounters such as Aldi and Lidl, and premium food halls like Harrods and Selfridges.
  • Market Readiness: Green emphasized the importance of understanding the UK market, identifying target customers, ensuring product compliance with UK standards, and having a robust logistics and shelf-readiness plan.
  • Case Study: The success story of Pure Chocolate Jamaica was shared, highlighting their strategic route to market and achievements like winning International Product of the Year and securing listings in major retailers like John Lewis.

The event concluded with actionable steps for market entry, including building a market strategy, marketing efforts, and direct sales initiatives. 

You can watch the recording of the event here 

You can access the slideshow here

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