The vegetables market is currently showing notable developments which reflect changes in customer preference, increased health awareness and a greater focus on sustainable as well as locally sourced food. One key trend observed in this market is the increasing demand for organic vegetables. Health-conscious customers are increasingly opting for natural vegetables grown without application of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers thereby contributing to the growth of organic vegetable segment. This trend goes along with the broader movement towards eating clean and green.
Market trends in fresh vegetables industry are changing due to local sourcing initiatives and farm-to-table programs. Commonly, consumers prefer vegetables from local farmers because they appreciate regional agriculture support thus reducing carbon footprint occasioned by long distance transportation. As such, there has been increased emphasis on the freshness, quality and traceability of locally grown vegetables. This trend fits perfectly into consumer’s desire to feel connected with what they eat.
The convenience factor plays a big part in shaping market trends within the fresh vegetables market. Thus, with more people leading busy lifestyles; eating on-the-go becomes more common hence looking for time-saving options so that they can still have their favorite meal away from home without any difficulties at all. Such a development has led to an increase in packaged ready-to-use fresh produce which can be eaten without requiring customers to go through rigorous cooking processes first before meals could be served thus addressing consumers’ needs for fast cooking convenience foods especially during breakfast or lunch hours when time is restricted. It also speaks a lot about customers who do not want to spend much time cooking their meals.
Sustainability concerns are influencing packaging decisions among producers within the fresh veggie segment. Consequently, there is growing interest across various markets worldwide for sustainable packaging options as companies seek ways of reducing plastic waste while considering environment conservation as their top priority issue. For instance, some companies and retailers have embraced eco-friendly packaging alternatives like compostable materials or reusable packages which contribute towards having sustainability oriented FV markets currently available. This need for sustainability is in line with the values of eco-friendly customers.
The surge of plant-based diets has impacted on fresh vegetable markets as consumers attempt to include more vegetables in their meals and reduce animal product consumption. Vegetables are now being recognized not only for their nutritional content but also for their use as versatile ingredients in plant-based recipes. This trend corresponds with the growing understanding of the health and environmental benefits associated with plant-based eating that tends to dictate what shall be purchased or consumed as far as fresh vegetables are concerned.
One notable trend within this area is innovation in vegetable varieties whereby consumers are trying out new unique and exotic alternatives besides conventional ones. Diverse, colorful and hybrid varieties of vegetables such as heirloom, new hybrids have gained popularity among buyers seeking variety and aesthetics. This trend reflects a broader shift towards gastronomic exploration and diverse flavors, textures, colors.
The global pandemic has further underscored the significance of food safety and hygiene standards thereby shaping market trends within the fresh vegetables segment. Another factor that makes people interested in locally-sourced products is the corona virus outbreak which heightened fears regarding food safety prompting individuals to seek local grown vegetables instead of imported ones. A desire for greater food security and safety lies behind moving toward support for local agriculture since it minimizes dependency on international supply chains.
E-commerce and online grocery shopping are reshaping how fresh vegetables are being marketed and sold. Through the internet, consumers have access to numerous kinds of fresh produce including exotic vegetables that are not usually found in local supermarkets. This shift into digital technology has led to farmers, retailers and distributors needing to improve their online presence, engage in e-commerce partnerships or use other innovative ways in order to reach consumers directly using digital channels.
Growing demand for functional foods is driving the development of fresh vegetable products with added health benefits. Fresh vegetables ranging from vitamin-rich leafy greens for a healthy dose of micronutrients to nutrient-dense microgreens are increasingly being evaluated based on their nutritional content. Some products have been promoted as superfoods because they offer specific health advantages as part of the broader functional/health food trend.
Fresh Vegetables Market Size valued at USD 640.6 Billion in 2022. The Fresh vegetable industry is projected to grow from USD 661.0 Billion in 2023 to USD 850.5 Billion by 2032, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.20% during the forecast period (2023 - 2032). Increased consumer awareness and demand for healthier and more sustainable food choices, urbanization and changing lifestyles are the key market drivers enhancing growth of the market.
Source: The Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
Market CAGR for fresh vegetables is being driven by the rising consumer awareness and demand for healthier and more sustainable food choices. As consumers become more health-conscious, there is a growing preference for fresh vegetables due to their nutritional value and health benefits. Fresh vegetables are rich in minerals, vitamins, and dietary fiber, making them an essential part of a balanced diet. The desire to maintain or improve health and well-being is a significant driver for increased consumption.
Concerns about the environmental effect of food production have led consumers to seek more sustainable and eco-friendly options. Fresh vegetables often have a lower carbon footprint compared to processed or imported foods. Local sourcing of fresh produce reduces transportation emissions, and sustainable farming practices, such as organic and regenerative agriculture, are gaining popularity. Further, the changing dietary preferences, including vegetarian and plant-based diets, have contributed to the increased consumption of fresh vegetables. These diets prioritize plant-based foods and are associated with health benefits and reduced environmental impact. Fresh vegetables are perceived as safer options compared to some processed foods, as they are less likely to contain additives or preservatives. The demand for food safety and traceability has led consumers to favor fresh, locally-grown produce, where they have more visibility into the supply chain. Busy lifestyles have fueled the demand for convenient and healthy meal options. Pre-packaged fresh vegetable products, such as pre-cut salads and ready-to-cook vegetables, cater to consumers looking for quick and nutritious meal solutions.
The "farm-to-table" and organic food movements have gained momentum. Consumers are willing to pay a premium for locally sourced and organic fresh vegetables, which they perceive as higher quality and more environmentally responsible. Also, the culinary trends and an interest in international cuisines have led to increased consumption of a wider variety of fresh vegetables. Consumers are experimenting with different types of produce in their home cooking, driving demand for diverse vegetable options. The availability of fresh vegetables in various retail and distribution channels, including supermarkets, farmers' markets, and online grocery stores, has made them more accessible to consumers. Government programs promoting healthy eating and agriculture, such as school nutrition programs and community gardens, can also influence consumer habits and drive demand for fresh vegetables.
As more people move to urban areas and experience busier lifestyles, there is a growing need for convenient and readily available food options. Fresh vegetables are becoming increasingly important in urban diets as consumers seek quick and easy ways to incorporate healthy ingredients into their meals. The demand for pre-packaged salads, pre-cut vegetables, and other convenient fresh vegetable products has surged due to urbanization and the desire for time-saving meal solutions. This trend is driving growth in the fresh vegetables market as it adapts to the evolving needs of urban consumers. Thus driving the Fresh Vegetables market revenue.
The Fresh vegetable market segmentation, based on product, includes Tomato, Onion, Cabbage, Cucumber, Eggplant, Beans, Carrot and Others. The tomato segment dominates the market, accounting for the largest market revenue. Tomatoes are incredibly versatile and serve as a key ingredient in a wide range of cuisines and dishes, from salads to sauces, soups, and sandwiches. Their adaptability makes them a staple in households and food service establishments alike. Moreover, tomato products are available year-round, regardless of seasonal variations in fresh tomato production. Tomatoes have a demand due to their widespread use in diverse culinary traditions. As a result, the production and trade of tomato products have become a significant part of the international food industry, further solidifying their dominance in the fresh vegetable market. Further, the onion segment is anticipated to grow at a rapid CAGR due to the increased demand for fresh onions.
The Fresh Vegetables market segmentation, based on distribution channels, includes Offline and Online. The offline category dominates the market as many consumers prefer to physically inspect and choose fresh vegetables at brick-and-mortar stores. Offline stores offer immediate access to fresh vegetables, allowing consumers to purchase what they need on the spot. This convenience is particularly important for everyday grocery shopping and meal planning. Further, offline retailers can provide personalized customer service, including assistance in selecting the best-quality produce and answering questions about storage and preparation. On the other hand, online channels are growing in popularity for fresh vegetable purchases.
Figure 1: Fresh Vegetables Market, by Distribution Channel, 2022 & 2032 (USD Billion)
Source: The Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
By region, the study gives market insights into teh North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific and the Rest of the World. The North American Fresh Vegetables market area dominates this market due to its vast agricultural production capabilities and diverse climate zones that allow year-round cultivation of a wide variety of vegetables. The region benefits from extensive commercial farming, which ensures a consistent supply of fresh produce to meet consumer demands. Additionally, North America's well-established distribution networks and retail infrastructure enable efficient delivery of fresh vegetables to urban and rural markets, contributing to its dominance in the sector.
Further, the main countries studied in the market report are The US, Canada, Germany, France, the UK, Italy, Spain, Japan, China, India, Australia, South Korea, and Brazil.
Figure 2: FRESH VEGETABLES MARKET SHARE BY REGION 2022 (USD Billion)
Source: The Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
Europe's Fresh Vegetables market accounts for the second-largest market share due to the increasing the consumer preference for healthy and locally sourced foods, along with a growing emphasis on sustainability and organic farming practices. Further, the German Fresh Vegetables industry held the largest market share, and the UK Market of Fresh Vegetables was the fastest-growing market in European region.
The Asia-Pacific Fresh Vegetables industry is expected to rise at the fastest CAGR from 2023 to 2032. This is due to rapid population growth, urbanization, increasing disposable incomes in the region and demand for healthier and more diverse food options. Moreover, China’s Fresh Vegetables held the largest market share, and the Indian Fresh Vegetables market was the fastest-growing market in Asia-Pacific region.
Leading market players are investing heavily in the research and development in order to spread their product lines, which will help the Fresh Vegetables market grow even more. Market players are also undertaking a variety of strategic activities to spread their footprint, with important market developments including contractual agreements, new product launches, mergers and acquisitions, higher investments, and collaboration with other organizations. To spread and survive in a more competitive and rising market climate, the Fresh Vegetables industry must offer cost-effective items.
Manufacturing locally to minimize the operational costs is one of the key business tactics used by the manufacturers in the Fresh Vegetables industry to benefit the clients and increase the market sector. In recent years, the Fresh Vegetables industry has offered some of the most significant advantages to the vegetable industry. Major players in the Fresh Vegetables market, including Dole Food Company, Inc., Fresh Del Monte, Keelings, Tanimura & Antle, BelOrta, FreshPoint Inc., Mirak Group, C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc., Goknur Gida, Fruitable Fresh Sdn Bhd., and Fresh Trading FZE, and others, are trying to increase the market demand by investing in teh research and development operations.
Apeel Sciences is a California-based agricultural technology company that focuses on developing solutions to reduce food waste and expand the shelf life of fresh produce. Apeel Sciences was founded in the year 2012 by James Rogers with the aim of addressing the issue of food waste. The company is headquartered in the Santa Barbara, California. Apeel Sciences has developed an innovative, plant-derived, edible coating that can be applied to the surface of fruits and vegetables. Apeel's approach aligns with sustainability goals as it enables longer-lasting produce without the need for synthetic chemical preservatives or refrigeration, reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions associated with food storage and transport. In November 2022, Apeel Sciences, a company that develops plant-based coatings to extend the shelf life of fresh produce, announced a partnership with Kroger to bring Apeel-coated produce to Kroger stores nationwide. The partnership began with a pilot program in California and is expected to expand to other states in the future.
Ahold Delhaize is a multinational retail conglomerate with its headquarters in Zaandam, Netherlands. The company is one of the largest retail groups in the world and operates a diverse portfolio of supermarket and grocery store chains across several countries. The company operates different types of retail formats, including traditional supermarkets, hypermarkets, convenience stores, and online grocery delivery services, to cater to different customer preferences and shopping needs. In January 2023, Ahold Delhaize, a Dutch-Belgian multinational retail company, announced a partnership with Gotham Greens, a vertical farming company, to build and operate a vertical farm in New Jersey. The farm is expected to be operational in 2025 and will produce leafy greens and tomatoes for Ahold Delhaize's customers.
Fresh Vegetables Industry Developments
August 2023: Walmart announced a partnership with Plenty, a vertical farming company, to bring locally grown, fresh produce to its stores. The partnership will start with a pilot program in California, with plans to expand to other states in the future.
February 2023: Ocado Retail, a British online grocery retailer, announced a partnership with Vertical Future, a vertical farming company, to build and operate a vertical farm in the UK. The farm is expected to be operational in 2024 and will produce leafy greens and tomatoes for Ocado Retail's customers.
December 2022: Bowery Farming, a vertical farming company, announced a partnership with Gordon Ramsay, a British celebrity chef, to launch a line of fresh, indoor-grown produce under the Ramsay's Kitchen brand. The produce is available at select retailers in the United States
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