Rice, Pasta and Noodles in Romania

2020 IMPACT

Stockpiling boosts sales of rice, pasta and noodles in 2020

Rice, pasta and noodles is set to record a sharp increase in both retail value and volume sales in 2020 driven by growth in the largest category of rice. The typically long shelves life of many of the products in the category, combined with their ease of preparation, led to stockpiling by consumers in the run-up to the lockdown in March 2020.

Health benefits and convenience drive consumption of rice, pasta and noodles

Rice has long benefited from its status as a key ingredient in traditional Romanian meals. However, consumers have increasingly become aware of the numerous health benefits offered by varieties that are rich in fibre, organic and free from gluten.

Riso Scotti Danubio maintains lead as Givesco A/S acquires Sam Mills Group

The leading player in rice, pasta and noodles, Riso Scotti Danubio, is continuing to grow its value share and extend its lead in 2020 due to its strength in rice, the largest category. The company offers a diverse range of products, covering standard and more sophisticated varieties and benefits from an extensive distribution network across both modern retailing and small independent grocers.

RECOVERY AND OPPORTUNITIES

Home cooking trend continues to drive retail value and volume growth for pasta in 2021

With the exception of instant noodle cups, all categories within rice, pasta and noodles are expected to maintain positive retail value growth at constant 2020 prices in 2021. However, growth is expected to be slower in many categories as the reopening of foodservice outlets leads to a fall in the proportion of meals prepared and consumed at home.

Lower unit price growth expected as rice and dried pasta drive volume growth

Rice, pasta and noodles is expected to record lower retail value growth at constant 2020 prices over the forecast period compared to the review period due in part to weakening unit price growth. Dried pasta is set to record the strongest retail value growth as, along with rice, it continues to remain a core staple food among Romanian consumers.

New varieties set to drive longer-term growth in rice, pasta and noodles

In general, the maturity of the category is set to pose a challenge to players over the forecast period, with the potential for sluggish value growth for those that fail to embrace new product developments. Players will therefore need to continue challenging traditional consumption patterns with new and more sophisticated varieties.