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SOUP FROM PAGE 24 water through recycling and new technologies in production, and the solar powered energy for daytime production.” Mr de Villiers added: “Australians are more invested in where the products come from that they’re consuming, and more willing to look for Australian made. They’re also more interested in protecting the planet, and they expect brands to do the same. Our brand adheres to both these consumer demands.” Complex tastes While many Australians may be seeking locally sourced products (in this feature’s case, soup), it’s also suggested – by Ms Oo – that multiculturalism trends are “reshaping” consumer preferences for soup products. “Instead of consuming ready-made soups as they are, many individuals are integrating more flavours and ingredients to customise their soups,” she said. “More sophisticated tastes will likely drive demand for non-traditional soup flavours, a trend that’s likely to be partly fuelled by increasing consumer preferences for Asian style cuisines. Examples of popular Asian soup flavours include miso, laksa, pho and Thai coconut soups.” This complexity is also reflected in the diversity of dietary requirements, which Ms Oo addresses. “Expanding dietary requirements mean retailers need to stock a broader range of products, such as gluten free and vegan soups,” she said. On this topic, Mr Dickson added: “When consumers choose soup, they often have a flavour in mind. A range of flavours that covers all palates is important, as is ensuring there are organic and healthy options.” Elaborating, he says new Australian Organic Food Co packs have been developed for its range, which now includes communications about Carbon 8. “Carbon 8 is a not-for-profit organisation that helps farmers transition to organic and regenerative agriculture,” Mr Dickson said. “By supporting Australian Organic Food Co, retailers and consumers are supporting the growth of regenerative agriculture in Australia.” Soup, says Ms Oo, is also exposed to competition from prepared meals. “Increasingly time-poor consumers have demonstrated strong demand for these products over the past five years,” she said, “and prepared soups that emphasise health and nutrition as core benefits have benefited from this trend.” Retail encouragement Mr de Villiers says retailers are generally very good at highlighting new flavours and ingredients, as well as creating appetite appeal within the shopping aisles. “So, I believe they’ll continue to do a great job, coupled with the suppliers,” he said. Mr Dickson points to rain as often being a trigger for soup buying (not just cold weather), adding that with the changing climate, retailers should be “out early” with a full range and off-location displays to capture the most sales. “International supply chains have slowed up post Covid,” he said, “so ensuring retailers have good stocks of locally produced brands such as Australian Organic Food Co will de-risk the season and ensure there are no empty shelves when the rush comes.” Looking for a simple and delicious MID-WEEK DINNER? Our 30-minute meal bases and slow cooker sauces are made on our farm in the Adelaide Hills. They’re the perfect dinner solution for busy households like yours. AVAILABLE IN INDEPENDENT SUPERMARKETS NATIONALLY OR VISIT BEERENBERG.COM.AU 26 RETAIL WORLD JUN, 2021 FP .indd 2 3/6/21 3:38 pm