Improving sales

Despite inflation concerns, beef can remain in the center of consumers’ plates with the right beef offerings, but today’s shoppers are seeking value, and they want variety.

“Trimming beef well, offering multiple grades of beef, and maintaining a reliable supply of ground beef can help retailers keep beef at the top of consumers’ grocery lists,” Drury said. “Even with inflation, consumers often find it less expensive to cook a high-quality steak at home. But being a confident cook doesn’t mean these consumers don’t appreciate shortcuts. Convenience products like a well-trimmed steak or ready-made premium burgers set shoppers up perfectly for their next barbecue, dinner party or Thursday night.”

And don’t forget about the health benefits of beef. Today’s information-hungry shoppers want to know where their food comes from and how their choices impact their overall health. According to the 2021 Power of Meat study, 83% of consumers are looking for at least one “better for” claim when buying meat or poultry.

Most often they were seeking out “better for me/my family,” but “better for the planet” and “better for the animal” were also top responses.  

“Consumers are embracing overall wellness and foods that fuel their well-being and there is room for brands and retailers alike to tap into these more contemporary indicators of health,” Harrison said.