Specialty Food Services

The specialty food industry continues to grow and Mission Mountain Food Enterprise Center is here to help and support you in entering this growing market.

Here are some of the latest statistics on the specialty food industry.

• More than 5,300 new specialty food items were launched in 2004
• 2004 sales of retail specialty foods was over $24 billion
• The market increased by 16% from 2002 to 2004
• More than half of products sold in specialty food stores are purchased direct
• Supermarkets represent the majority of specialty food sales accounting for 66%
• The largest growth segment was beverages with a 39% increase 2002 – 2004

What does this all mean to me as a specialty food producer? The market is very competitive but growing at a strong rate. While supermarkets which are the tougher market to penetrate represent the largest sales, specialty food stores still generate large opportunities, especially in light of their buying habit of purchasing the products directly from the company, not a broker.

With over 5,300 new product introductions each year, you need to have a unique and well branded product to rise above the competition. You will also need to employ highly efficient production and packaging methods to help contain wholesale costs.

Mission Mountain Food Enterprise Center is a great place to start with your new specialty food ideas. We can help analyze your product and marketplace for better placement and results. We can also help with sensory panels to evaluate the product and packaging for mass market appeal. Production methods will be evaluated to determine the most efficient manufacture process.

Give us a call today and let us help you navigate the maze of regulatory and marketing challenges awaiting your new venture.