Organic September

Organic September is back and the campaign, initiated by The Soil Association over 20 years ago, continues to attract more attention year-on-year. Let's take a closer look at what's going on in the so-called 'organic era'. 👇🏼 🥕

 Market Overview
We took a look at the latest Organic Market Report 2023 from the Soil Association. Despite the cost of living crisis, the organic market reached a record value of £3.1 billion in 2022, growing by 1.6%.  In fact, the organic market has been growing positively for 11 years, with a 25.4% surge in the last three years. Consumers spend nearly £8.5 million daily on organic products in the UK. 

Retailers have upheld their commitments to organic produce, even in the face of a minor sales dip. This stands in contrast to the previous recession that resulted in a major delisting of organic products. What's even better, is that many retailers are demonstrating more support for organic than ever before - investing in, expanding, and actively promoting their ranges. 

Where are people buying organic?

🛒 Supermarkets: faced a slight dip of 2.7% in organic sales due to the cost of living crisis. But there's still a market worth £1.92 billion. Here's a breakdown of the key category players...

🧡 Sainsbury: 21.8%
💙 Tesco: 21%
💚 Waitrose: 20.3%

Through year-round offers and promotions, Waitrose has boosted organic sales by 17%. Shoppers have enjoyed 20% off selected own-label Duchy Organic produce, including ham, king prawns, and olive oil - and during Organic September 2022, Waitrose ran discounts on over 100 certified organic wines.

🍽 Foodservice: experienced a 152% surge in organic sales.

💻 Home delivery: sales remain steady at £558.6 million. Independent retailers saw a 3.3% drop, but most believe 2023 holds promise for growth.

Is Organic a Solution for the Broken Food System?
With our current food system failing farmers, consumers, and the environment, consumers seek holistic solutions, and organic is the answer. We require agriculture capable of feeding the global population while preserving our natural resources. 

Organic food production has been around since the early 1940s and its established standards provide clarity and trust for both health-conscious and eco-minded consumers. Organic is an 'agroecological' farming system that offers many benefits for the planet, wildlife, animal welfare standards and humans - as consumers and food producers. The mitigation of fertilisers spares farmers from rising costs.

What does this mean for brands?
Sustainable and healthy choices are in demand, and embracing organic can lead to a brighter future. Brands can make a positive impact on the environment and win over conscious consumers by offering organic options and championing sustainable practices.  

So, what organic brands will we be enjoying at Seed this month? From office snacks to home essentials, the team will enjoy an organic lineup featuring Yeo Valley's Organic Yoghurt, Biona's Organic Kimchi, Green and Black's Chocolate, Clipper's Restore Ginger and Turmeric Tea, and the wholesome goodness of Doves Farm Self-Raising Flour. Will you be joining us and choosing an organic alternative this month? 🌱🌍