Brits go wild for game
The British are taking a walk on the wild side, with sales of game meat soaring 46% between 2004 and 2006 to reach £57 million (R814 million) last year. Consumer, media and market research operation Mintel International Group said that although still a premium niche product, these meats are clearly a cut above the rest, with everyday red meat and poultry markets growing by no more than 5% over the same two-year period. Game includes grouse, guinea fowl, pheasant, partridge, wood pigeon, wild duck, venison, wild boar, rabbit, hare, snipe and woodcock.
“The market for game is growing strongly as we increasingly look for exciting, alternative flavours that fit with our renewed interest in good-quality food,” said Mintel senior market analyst David Bird. “But game also has a surprising fan in health-conscious Brits. These meats are low in fat and cholesterol but are still full of flavour, and this healthy image is definitely helping to boost sales, especially amongst women.” – Alan Harman
Aussies need the milkman
Home delivery is returning to the milk sector in Melbourne 25 years after it disappeared, and the company responsible is getting so many morning smiles it’s expanding into Sydney. Ironically, the same economic force that put home milk deliveries out to pasture in cities half a century ago is the reason for its revival.
he original milkman service catered to women at home without the means to go shopping. But that went the way of the dinosaurs when women entered the workforce in large numbers. But now a start-up company called Aussie Farmers Direct is catering to households that, with both men and women working, do not have the time to shop. Aussie Farmers Direct has put a new spin on the old service. Along with fresh milk it offers bread, eggs, orange juice and other food staples. It is now adding fruit and vegetables to its range. – Alan Harman
