During the 12 weeks to July 15, retail sales of pig meat* recorded a 1.4% rise year-on-year, according to the latest data from Kantar Worldpanel. With retail prices also increasing, this meant the total value of the category increased by just over 2%.
This increase in volume was largely due to growth on the year in retail sales of bacon and sausages, up 1% and 4% respectively. Sales of sausages will likely have been supported by the ‘BBQ’ weather which was experienced across the country, especially since market penetration remained steady on year earlier levels. Unlike bacon, sausage prices were also higher than 2017 levels.
So, the value of the sausage category increased by just over 5% year-on-year to an estimated £160 million, during the 12-week period.
Supporting the notion that the weather buoyed sausage sales is the increase in burger sales, which recorded a 19% year-on-year increase in volume sold. Aside from traditional barbecue foods, other buffet and picnic-style products also seem to have received a boost, again perhaps related to the exceptional summer weather.
Fresh pork pies recorded almost a 5% increase in sales volumes compared to the same period last year, and higher prices meant value climbed 9%. Sliced cooked meats (such as ham) also recorded increases in volume and average price, which combined to be worth almost 4% more than year earlier levels.
In contrast, primary pork has suffered under the heat, with volumes declining 1% year-on-year during the period. Although, due to a rise in average price the value of the category remained steady. Unsurprisingly, considering recent temperatures, leg and loin roasting joint volumes suffered, however shoulder roasting joints bucked the trend with volumes up 5% year-on-year.
With the warm weather continuing for several weeks after July 15, retail sales of primary pork may have continued to face pressure, while BBQ products enjoy increased popularity.
*encompasses primary, bacon, sausages, sliced cooked meats, chilled main meal accompaniments, ready to cook, pulled pork, pork ribs and burgers and grills.
