The charcuterie market - Italy

The global cured meat market, valued at $319.6 billion in 2020, is expected to reach $497 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 4.8%. After a pandemic-induced decline in 2020, the Italian cured meat industry rebounded with a production increase of 7% in 2021, achieving a total production of 1.169 million tons. 

Italian Cured Meat Market: Resilient Demand and Growth Amidst Challenges

The cured meat market in Italy has demonstrated resilience and growth in the face of challenges, particularly those imposed by the Covid-19 pandemic. In 2021, there was a notable recovery with production increasing to over 1.1 million tons, a rise of approximately 7% from the previous year. The industry, valued at around €8.4 billion, witnessed a rebound in both domestic and foreign demand. While the Ho.Re.Ca. sector suffered due to imposed restrictions, the increase in sales through large-scale retail outlets and e-commerce platforms provided some compensation. Cooked ham topped the production charts with about 288,000 tons produced, closely followed by raw ham at around 282,500 tons, and mortadella at approximately 163,800 tons. Despite a slight decline in the number of companies involved in cured meat production, dropping by about 2.7% over five years, employment within the sector has seen a substantial increase of approximately 23%. On the consumption front, the apparent per capita consumption saw an uptick from around 16.2 kg in 2020 to about 17 kg in 2021, meaning real per capita consumption was about 11.3 kg per year. The majority of Italians consume meat and cured meats, with only about 5.4% identifying as vegetarian and 1.3% as vegan, leading to a potential consumer base of approximately 55 million meat eaters in the country. Italy's food and wine tourism industry also plays a significant role in cured meat consumption. Recognized for its rich culinary traditions, Italy saw tourist numbers hit a historical high in 2019 before the pandemic. Although tourism experienced a dramatic decline in 2020 due to travel restrictions, the country's 814 certified agricultural and food products, including cured meats, remain a cornerstone of its cultural and economic appeal. Exports of Italian cured meats have also been strong, with a double-digit increase in 2021, reaching a record value of around €1.8 billion. The export market has not only recovered from the pandemic's effects but even surpassed pre-pandemic levels. In summary, the Italian cured meat market continues to be vibrant and is characterized by a strong demand for quality products both domestically and internationally. Despite the challenges in recent years, the market shows strong signs of growth and dynamism, with stable production, a fleshed-out export profile, and a robust food industry.

Prominent Players in the Global and Italian Cured Meat Industry

The cured meat market is an intricate tapestry woven from tradition, culture, and an ever-evolving consumer palate. Firms operating in this marketplace range from global giants to local artisans, contributing to a sector that is both dynamic and culturally rich. Below are some of the main players in the cured meats industry as highlighted throughout the given text:

JBS S.A.: As one of the largest meat processing companies globally, JBS S.A. plays a significant role in the cured meats market. With a robust product portfolio and a strong presence across various countries, JBS has established itself as a major provider of a variety of meats, including pork—the primary meat used in cured meat products.

Smithfield Foods: Owned by the WH Group of China, Smithfield Foods is another colossal entity within the global meat market. Smithfield's extensive operations in pork production directly contribute to the supply chain of cured meats, not only within the United States, where it is based, but also on an international scale.

Hormel Foods: Known for its diverse range of products, Hormel Foods has a strong foothold in the cured meats segment. With popular items like their famous Spam and a variety of deli meats, Hormel has positioned itself as a brand synonymous with quality and taste in the cured meat industry.

Charcuteries in Italy: In Italy, a number of smaller, artisanal charcuteries uphold the tradition of cured meat production. With their crafts deeply rooted in local culture and geography, these establishments play a pivotal role in maintaining the quality and heritage that Italian cured meats are known for around the world.

Industrial Producers: Large, industrial producers are also present in this sector, contributing to the more commoditized segment of the market. These firms utilize mass production techniques to create cured meat products that are widely distributed through supermarkets and grocery chains worldwide.

Local Delicatessens: Competing with larger supermarkets, local delicatessens in countries like Italy serve as key players in the cured meat market by offering high-quality, artisanal products. These delis allow consumers to choose specific quantities and often provide a more personalized shopping experience.

Export-Driven Companies: With a substantial portion of Italian cured meats being exported, firms dedicated to this trade form a significant part of the industry. These companies focus on maintaining international standards and navigating the regulations and demands of the global market.

Inforamtion

• Number of pages : 30 pages
• Format : Digital and PDF versions
• Last update : 22/10/2021

Summary and extracts