The BFFF is a leading trade association for the frozen food sector that publishes Kantar data on the state of the industry throughout the year.
In 2023, the value of frozen food sales increased by 15.6% year-on-year, while volumes rose 0.4% compared with the year prior.
Notable risers included frozen potato products, pizza and savoury food, which saw volume increases of 4.6%, 1.6% and 5.1% respectively in the 52 weeks to 26 November. Frozen vegetable volumes increased 0.7% during the same period, but frozen ready meals and fish saw volumes decline by 0.9% and 0.8% respectively.
The BFFF believes that the cost of living crisis has led to consumers searching for value in the frozen aisle more often than in the past, a phenomenon which sparked growth in both the value and volume of sales. Looking ahead, chief executive Rupert Ashby said that with inflation beginning to ease, consumers will likely have more disposable income in 2024.
“I am elated to see the exceptional performance of our industry in 2023,” Ashby continued.
“The numbers speak volumes and are a testament to our members who have continued to innovate and provide shoppers with value for money foods, despite battling rising costs and inflation. Frozen food has been embraced by shoppers during what has been an extremely tough year for many.”
During 2023 the BFFF celebrated its 75th anniversary, while 2024 marks 100 years since Clarence Birdseye “launched the fast freezing process that would change food production and distribution forever”.
Ashby concluded: “Frozen food made its way to the UK in 1938 and has since become a kitchen staple. Our 100-year journey is a reflection of the ever-improving taste, quality and convenience of frozen food and we hope to continue to support our members and the wider industry for the next century.”
In other news, MYCO is set to hire 70 people after moving into its new factory.
