Yoghurt and Sour Milk Products in the Czech Republic

PROSPECTS

Health trends dictate movements in yoghurt, with protein in focus

The consumption of yoghurt continued to rise in both retail volume and current value terms in 2019, mainly due to the developing wellness trend. Czech consumers continue to appreciate plain yoghurt, as it is perceived as healthy, and consumers like to mix it with their own healthy ingredients, such as fruits, nuts and seeds.

Product developments help sour milk products to compete with drinking yoghurt

Sour milk products successfully compete with drinking yoghurt, as they contain natural probiotics. Flavoured variants are more popular, and new product developments such as Chocenska Kyska by Chocenska Mlekarna boosted sales at the end of the review period.

Demand for lactose-free products increases, prompting new launches

In line with the rising number of Czechs with lactose intolerance, the demand for lactose-free variants developed strongly in 2019. However, there are also an increasing number of Czechs who do not suffer from lactose intolerance but are opting for lactose-free products due to the health and wellness trend.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Danone maintains its lead, but is challenged by launches from local players

Danone retained its lead in yoghurt and sour milk products in the Czech Republic in retail value terms in 2019, although it experienced a decline in its share during the year due to the rising competition from domestic dairies such as Olma, Hollandia Karlovy Vary, Mlekarna Valasske Mezirici, Mlekarna Kunin and Chocenska Mlekarna. Local companies are becoming increasingly active in terms of new flavours, and improved their quality and launched wellness products over 2017-2019, gaining a wider consumer base.

Strong growth for players offering niche products such as skyr and soy yoghurt

Bohusovicka Mlekarna and Emco saw the most significant increases in value sales in 2019. Bohusovicka Mlekarna benefited mainly from the rising popularity of its skyr high-protein range, which is available in both spoonable and drinking yoghurt.

Offer of more premium variants by private label boosts sales

Private label strengthened its position within yoghurt and sour milk products in the Czech Republic once again in 2019. Local consumers consider private label good quality, and retailers kept up with the latest trends and focused on revitalising the offer at the end of the review period.

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