Author: Scott Dylan

The realm of rapid grocery delivery experienced substantial shifts post-pandemic.Initially, the pandemic catalysed a surge for quick deliveries, but as normalcy resumed, demand waned.This shift saw notable acquisitions, market consolidations, and strategic pivots among key players.Global giants like Getir and GoPuff have adopted new strategies to navigate this altered landscape.Traditional delivery platforms like Uber and Deliveroo are expanding partnerships to capitalise on changing demands.During the peak of the pandemic, the demand for swift grocery deliveries surged as consumers opted for online solutions to avoid physical store visits. By mid-2021, over a dozen rapid delivery applications were launched across the US…

Consumers face growing concerns as shrinkflation impacts grocery prices.Portion sizes reduce while prices increase concurrently, a recent investigation reveals.Major supermarkets see product price doubling compared to the previous year.Experts predict persistent high food inflation throughout 2023.Key staples affected by global events, exacerbating the situation.Consumers are increasingly experiencing the effects of shrinkflation, a phenomenon where product sizes decrease while prices maintain or increase, leading to higher costs per unit. This trend has been reported across several major supermarkets, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Asda, and Morrisons, with some products doubling in price compared to the same period last year.Economists have highlighted that food…

Ocado is intensifying its same-day delivery services amid pressure from stakeholders to showcase a turnaround strategy.The online grocer plans to increase same-day delivery slots, moving beyond limited availability.Focus will shift toward persuading consumers to place larger orders for same-day delivery.Stakeholders like M&S are keenly observing the economic viability of this strategy.Adjusting the operational model remains crucial as Ocado strives to navigate this competitive landscape.In a strategic move to boost efficiency, Ocado aims to expand its same-day delivery offerings significantly. The company is responding to external pressures, notably from part-owner M&S, to demonstrate tangible improvement in its operation.Currently, Ocado facilitates same-day…

Recent undercover footage highlights significant welfare issues at Co-op’s chicken farms.The footage reveals chickens in severe distress, facing health and welfare challenges.Open Cages, an animal protection charity, recorded these conditions from August to November.Campaigners urge Co-op to adopt the Better Chicken Commitment for improved welfare standards.Co-op responds by committing to increased living space but continues to sell fast-growing breeds.Recent footage has brought to light severe welfare concerns at chicken farms supplying the Co-op, captured by hidden cameras. The revelations, as reported by The Independent, show chickens “collapsing in agony” while suffering from deformities and high mortality rates. Workers were observed…

Waitrose, in partnership with Diageo, is enhancing its non-alcoholic drink offerings.The initiative will see dedicated sections for over 70 low and alcohol-free beverages.Expansion includes beer, cider, wines, and spirits across 253 UK stores.Growing demand for alcohol alternatives has led to a 20% sales increase at Waitrose.Government officials support efforts to promote healthier drinking habits.Waitrose has partnered with Diageo to improve access to non-alcoholic beverages, introducing dedicated sections in 253 stores across the UK. This move is part of a broader strategy to cater to increasing consumer demand for low and non-alcoholic drinks, which has surged by 20% over the past…

Sainsbury’s introduces a new premium ‘Kitchen Deli’ food-to-go range in 100 stores, focusing on quality and sustainability.The range features 13 products, including wraps, sandwiches, salads, and ready meals, with plans for expansion by the end of 2023.Pricing is competitive, with sandwiches starting at £4.75, salads like tuna niçoise at £5.50, and ready meals such as teriyaki chicken at £6.50.Most of the packaging is paperboard-based and recyclable, aligning with Sainsbury’s sustainability goals.The initiative coincides with Greggs’ plan to open standalone cafés in Sainsbury’s stores, indicating a broader retail partnership strategy.Sainsbury’s has unveiled its new premium ‘Kitchen Deli’ fresh food-to-go range, initially…

This article details the latest confectionery releases from major brands, highlighting their unique features and availability in the UK market.KitKat has reintroduced its popular Chunky Hazelnut bar after a three-year hiatus, available in shops nationwide for 70p.Quality Street introduces a new chocolate bar combining fan-favourites ‘The Purple One’ and ‘Green Triangle’, currently exclusive to Asda.Haribo’s new limited-edition Awesome Axolotls bring fruity jelly and foam sweets to stores for £1.25 per pack.Mars unveils Secret Centre Biscuits, offering an indulgent treat with chocolate, caramel, and nougat, initially exclusive to certain UK retailers.Fruit-tella expands its Curiosities jellies with ‘Out in Space’ and ‘On…

Aldi is conducting a trial for sensory-friendly shopping hours in nearly 100 UK stores, aiming to enhance accessibility for customers with non-visible disabilities.The trial, running from early August to late October, includes stores in Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire, and Yorkshire.Sensory-friendly features include quieter environments with reduced tannoy announcements, lower till scan sounds, and visible signposting of dedicated shopping times.Aldi staff have received training on hidden disabilities and the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower symbol to support customers needing additional assistance.Aldi’s commitment to inclusivity extends beyond this trial, reflecting broader efforts to ensure accessibility for both shoppers and employees.Aldi has announced the initiation of…

Economists indicate a challenging future for UK food prices.Food inflation reached its peak at 19.2% but slightly decreased.Despite moderation, high food prices will persist, experts say.Shrinkflation affects popular brands, increasing price pressure.Lower income households drastically cut grocery spending.The unprecedented rise in food prices in the United Kingdom signals a significant economic shift, as economists suggest that the affordable food era is over. In March, the Office for National Statistics reported that food inflation had reached a 45-year high at 19.2%. However, this number slightly decreased to 17.4% by June, marking a tentative moderation in inflation figures.Despite the easing of food…

Meatless Farm faced significant financial struggles in Europe, leading to a bankruptcy declaration earlier this year. The company’s relocation of its head office from Leeds to Amsterdam resulted in increased costs, ultimately surpassing its revenue. A challenging market environment and difficulties in attracting investors further exacerbated the situation. Meatless Farm amassed over £17 million in losses in Europe over three years.Meatless Farm relocated its head office from Leeds to Amsterdam in 2020, aiming to better serve the European market, but this led to higher expenses.The company generated less than €7 million in revenue since 2020, with losses amounting to nearly…