According to new data* from
Euromonitor International, Western Europe is currently the largest market for
organic food in the world and typically accounts for 45-50% of global sales. The
UK has experienced a 278% increase in retail sales from 1996-2000 and is the fastest
growing organic foods market
in Europe.

Consumers tempted by
easy-availability of organic foods through supermarkets

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Although European growth
is being restrained by static demand in Germany, which has a well established
market of considerable size, the UK organic foods market is thriving. It has
taken UK consumers longer to embrace the concept of organic foods but sales
are now expanding rapidly due to greater availability through supermarkets,
which account for 70% of all organic food sales.

Retail Sales of Organic
Foods in Western Europe 1996-2000

US$
million
1996
2000
% growth
Austria 175 400 128.6
Belgium 60 200 233.3
Denmark 250 600 140.0
France 615 1,250 103.2
Germany 1,600 2,500 56.3
Italy 500 1,100 120.0
Netherlands 230 700 204.3
Sweden 150 400 166.7
Switzerland 270 600 122.2
UK 330 1,250 278.9
Other Europe 150 550 250.0

Source: Euromonitor

Organic greens top of
the shopping list

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

Vegetables and fruits are
the most demanded produce. They represent 40 and 18 percent respectively of
total organic sales, whereas the market share for meat is 11 percent and 9 percent
for dairy products. Other products including bread, cereals, savoury snacks,
processed foods, baby food, cooking oils, confectionery, hot beverages and soft
drinks have a 22 percent market share.

The ‘Good Life’ goes
mainstream

Organic foods was previously
seen as the preserve of a dedicated group of ‘beard and sandal brigade’ consumers,
but the market has grown to occupy a small but significant mainstream niche.
In addition, the market is buoyant and looks set to show continuing healthy
growth. UK trade in organic food is expected to increase over the next 10 years
to between 10% and 15% of all food sales

*Organic Foods in
Europe, published August 2000

Just Food Excellence Awards - Have you nominated?

Nominations are now open for the prestigious Just Food Excellence Awards - one of the industry's most recognised programmes celebrating innovation, leadership, and impact. This is your chance to showcase your achievements, highlight industry advancements, and gain global recognition. Don't miss the opportunity to be honoured among the best - submit your nomination today!

Nominate Now