Sauces, Dressings and Condiments in Italy

PROSPECTS

Manufacturers focus on premiumisation in bouillon to attract new consumers

Volume sales of bouillon continued to struggle in 2018 after several years of decline. Italian consumers are spending less time cooking at home due to both work and family responsibilities, having also become inclined to cook less complicated meals.

Demand for local tomatoes drives category concentration

Italian consumers are increasingly looking for tomato-based products made with local ingredients. This is being supported by a new labelling regulation which came into force on 5 April 2018, requiring all packaged food in Italy to carry the name and address of the manufacturer or packaging plant.

Mayonnaise and ketchup continue to account for the largest share of sales in table sauces

Mayonnaise and ketchup continued to account for the largest share of value sales in table sauces in 2018 given their longstanding presence on Italian tables. While in recent years growth was driven by casual dining, aperitifs and street food, more recently it has been fuelled by the health and wellness trend.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Pesto sauces and reduced-salt bouillon at the core of Star’s strategy

Star - Stabilimento Alimentare remained the leading player in sauces, dressings and condiments in 2018 despite many of its products having been heavily affected by promotional activities in recent years. The company’s growth strategy for the future remains focused on bouillon and sauces.

Premium pasta sauces contribute to the growth of Barilla

Sales of Barilla's sauces increased in 2018 in both value and volume terms thanks to the high quality of ingredients used and traditional product recipes. Organic ingredients are used in many cases, with the company also benefiting from strong brand awareness.

Unilever Food Solutions opens an online sales platform

Unilever Italia continued to focus on both the retail and foodservice channels in 2018 thanks to its wide product portfolio which suits both end consumers and restaurant operators. In April 2018, Unilever Food Solutions launched new ethnic sauces, namely curry with vegetables and pineapple, sweet and sour with pineapple and peppers, chilli with tomatoes, onions, peppers and borlotti beans, as well as Mexican with peppers, onions and chilli peppers.

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