Split coverage
Media comments on industry news showed divided coverage angles this week. Tesco released its strong full-year report. However, most of the growth was generated in Asia and that the UK market was a lot weaker – hence the confused comments in the British media, split between reporting strong or weak sales for the retailer.
In Italy, the sadness at Ferrero over the untimely loss of their CEO indicated the importance confectionery companies can have in economies and highlighted the strength of family-run companies. Reports couldn’t quite agree, though, whether he died of a heart attack or the actual bike accident.
Meanwhile, Mars released its 2011 market review. It noted highlighted benefits to convenience stores as its research has showed that consumers shop more frequently, which is always positive for impulse confectionery buys. This goes somewhat against the strong growth and increased launches in sharing bags, however. I guess there are always two sides to a story.
All the best,
Katrine Kjoeller, Editor
Sweets & Snacks Europe
