Scotland’s organic food and drink sector is back in growth with sales up 2.6% in the 52 weeks to January 31, 2016.
Figures from consumer research body Kantar Worlpanel show Scottish shoppers spent around £52.6million on organic food and drink in the 52-week period.
Sales across the UK were also up 4.9% in the year to £1.95billion, according to data from organic certification body the Soil Association.
The body’s business development director, Clare McDermott, said: “We’re excited that the organic market in Scotland is now back in growth and we want to encourage all our licensees to make the most of new opportunities across all routes to market from multiples to catering.
“Earlier this month Soil Association Scotland launched a new Organic Served Here award to celebrate organic served in restaurants, cafes and eateries, to further drive sales of organic food. Independent retailers are another opportunity we have recognised, and are supporting through a visual merchandising guide and exciting events – helping to build the market further and sell more organic through this channel.”
Speaking at the first organic market trade briefing in Scotland, Ms McDermott said sales of organic produce through independent retailers across the UK was up 7.5% with 36% of Scottish independent retailers reporting a boost in sales over the past 12 months.
She said nearly two thirds of these retailers said they expected this to continue in 2016 as a result of consumer demand for organic produce.
