Report Buyer, the online destination for business intelligence for major industry sectors, has now added a new report on the surging demand for fresh and locally grown food. Local and Fresh Foods in the U.S, forecasts that this market will grow from $2 billion in 2002 to $7 billion by 2011.

It seems that everyone in America is being turned on to the ‘fresh and local’ food message. From restaurants to value channels, such as convenience stores, and even academic foodservice, all seem to be looking to fresh, local foods to liven up their offering.

The American public is experiencing a burgeoning ‘green’ culture and a preoccupation with food safety issues. As a result, consumers are increasingly equating freshness with higher quality and are looking to their local supermarkets for fresh foods. These not only include locally grown and organic fruits and vegetables, but fresh meats, seafood, dairy, and baked goods as well.

Not surprisingly, the success of local and fresh foods is reaching far beyond the aisles of the local supermarket. Farmers’ markets have experienced exponential growth, and retail and foodservice initiatives are adding more local products to their merchandise mix and menus.

New trends are developing which the American public are taking notice of. Ask an American about ‘food miles’ or the ‘slow food movement’ five years ago and few would’ve known what you were talking about. Today however, awareness of these trends is like a badge showing your green credentials. As these issues catch on the market for foods which fit the profile of this trend is likely to grow significantly.

This report pinpoints and analyzes shifting trends in the marketplace for fresh and local foods, and identifies opportunities and strategies that suppliers, retailers, foodservice providers, and packaged goods marketers can use to protect and grow their businesses.

Report Buyer product ID: PKF00069