the market for local products | Italy

1.1 Definition and presentation

Local products refer to food products considered to be an integral part of the national or regional gastronomy, with a traditional and local component.

The market for local products is characterized by a variety of products (e.g. dairy products, meat, fruit and vegetables) and a large number of highly competitive players (e.g. private labels, agri-food giants, local producers, innovative SMEs). In the face of the multiplication of newcomers, established operators in the local product market rely on the diversification and export prospects of their products, particularly in emerging countries (Brazil, Russia, India, India, China, South Africa, etc.).

The production and sale of local food products is emblematic of a country, of a set of customs and traditions. The consumption of Italian gastronomy shows positive performances both internally and abroad, not to be underestimated in fact is the power connected to the Made in Italy. The challenge for operators in the local products sector remains that of obtaining recognition from the general public, juggling the economies of scale of industrialization, and dealing with increasingly stringent regulations relating to the local or territorial certification of a product.