Ready meals: A constantly evolving market

Ready meals: A constantly evolving market

The ready-meal market is growing rapidly thanks to rising demand, with a 15 per cent increase in Italy over recent years. Today, the Italian segment is worth 2.5 billion euros and accounts for 3.5 per cent of the food market, but we are increasingly looking towards the European market, which accounts for 6.8 per cent of the food market.

And this is creating new synergies and business models.

Why are ready meals experiencing such strong growth?

Undoubtedly, the main driver is the change in Italians’ consumption habits, with differences between the North and the South.

Modern consumers are looking for practical, high-quality, ready-to-eat solutions, without compromising on authenticity. A lack of time, a desire for variety and a focus on health are driving demand for ready-to-eat solutions, particularly in the premium segment.

Opportunities for the Sector

1. Premiumisation of the Product Range

Consumers are looking for healthy, gourmet and plant-based ready meals. Carefully selected ingredients and product storytelling are key differentiators.

2. Partnerships between Retail and Catering

Collaborations between supermarkets and restaurants can create co-branded ranges, boosting brand awareness and building customer loyalty.

3. International Expansion

Italy can position itself as a leader in high-quality ready-to-eat products, exporting the Italian ready-meal format abroad.

4. Synergy with Delivery & Quick Commerce

The integration

 

 

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