UK-based grocery retailer Co-op introduced its plant-based private label 'GRO' line earlier this year.
"The vegan range meets the growing demand for vegetarian and plant-based alternatives, as exclusive research from the Co-op’s Ethical Consumerism report" revealed how "vegetarian product sales have risen by over 12 percent and non-dairy milk alternatives have seen a 14 percent uplift" in just 12 months.
Co-op's plant-based GRO range consists of vegetable-based stew and curry bowls, vegan snack wraps, salads and pasta dishes along with a wide range of meat-free meatball, hot dog, burger and sausage alternatives -- made from protein-enriched ingredients like mushrooms, beets, onions, soya, pea proteins and more. Additionally, the range also includes dessert varieties like vegan chocolate cupcakes, and rice toffee pudding treats.
Plant-Based Private Label Groceries
Co-op's GRO Range Highlights Meatless Protein Options
Trend Themes
1. Plant-based Protein - Companies can innovate by incorporating protein-enriched non-meat ingredients into their products
2. Vegetarian Options - With vegetarian product sales on the rise companies should explore adding vegetarian choices to their offerings
3. Non-dairy Milk Alternatives - Companies can innovate by offering non-dairy milk alternatives to cater to the growing demand for plant-based options
Industry Implications
1. Grocery - Supermarkets and grocery stores can improve sales by offering plant-based private labels products to their customers
2. Foodservice - Restaurants can cater to the growing demand for plant-based options by including vegetarian and vegan dishes on their menu
3. Dairy - Dairy companies can innovate by expanding their non-dairy milk offerings to include more options and flavors