Supermarket Perimeter - June 2024 - 56

Meat & Poultry: Pork
Newman said, adding that supermarkets that market this platform have
found big success. " Placing pork in culturally relevant context while
messaging around the flavor and nutrition of pork has proven to be a
winning formula with this audience. "
Seaboard Foods is seeing success in emphasizing pork's versatility
and the variety of ways one can prepare a nutritious and protein rich
pork dish.
" We're trying to help educate consumers on how to pick the best cut
of pork by working with chefs and pitmaster ambassadors who have
cultivated careers on choosing the best cuts of meat, " Barnett said.
" They not only share their own recipes and pork preparation, but they
share tips on what they look for when browsing the meat case for their
own meals. "
Additionally, emphasizing the health attributes, like high protein
content, that pork provides is one way to draw consumers in.
" Cross merchandizing with the products that round out a dish is
another key way to help consumers envision what their meal will look
like, " Barnett said.
Recipes and meal inspiration has been at the forefront of consumer
education for Smithfield to bring high-quality pork as a center-of-theplate
protein or quick addition to enhance a dish.
" The versatility of the Smithfield marinated line aids in consumer
confidence while creating their favorite meals, " Kensicki said.
Display tactics
Within the perimeter of retailers, specific sections for proteins have
been developed. However, more recently, stores have been diversifying
sections to create a collection of offering based on the cut instead
of the protein, for instance, moving all ground meat - beef, turkey
and pork - together for consumers to easily decide based on their
meal plans.
" Pork gets its most energy when it's all together, " Fleming said.
" Merchandising it together is incredibly good. This time of year, rib
displays are critical because we are heading into the heavy rib season. "
Supermarket shelves can be transformed into engaging destinations
for pork with a focus on variety and education, according to the
National Pork Board.
" Offering a range of cuts caters to diverse needs and preferences is
key, " Newman said. " Retail shelves should display various pack sizes
and packaging formats that will suit a variety of consumer needs. Each
store should understand who their shoppers are and what they want to
customize the product assortment and pack size and formats to them. "
She added that it's important to tell the story of pork by including
meaningful signage that not only educates shoppers but also guides
and inspires them to try new recipes.
" Highlighting the surprising leanness of many pork cuts-some can
be as lean as skinless chicken breast - through clear labeling empowers
curious home cooks, " Newman said. " This approach is further
enhanced by showcasing recipe inspiration and pairing pork with
complementary ingredients like vegetables, fruits, or seasonings. This
not only educates consumers about pork's versatility but also sparks
meal planning ideas. "
Finally, clear labeling with information on cuts, safe cooking
methods, and nutritional content adds another layer of confidence,
allowing consumers to make informed choices. " By creating engaging
and informative displays, supermarkets can enhance the shopping
experience and drive sales of pork products, " Newman said.
Packaging patterns
Prairie Fresh designs packaging with consumer wants and needs in
mind, utilizing clear packaging to better showcase the spices and
marinades that encompass a pre-seasoned cut of pork.
" With images of finished product right on the label, customers
will see what their pork can look like, enabling them to shop with
confidence, " Barnett said. " While bold colors and graphics are crucial
to catching the eye, being able to give the consumer a clear picture of
what the end-product looks like is important. "
Today's consumers are increasingly drawn to pork due to its taste,
nutrient-rich profile, lean fat content, versatility in culinary applications,
and sustainability credentials, and it's no surprise that the category is
booming.
" In the past year, the pork category has displayed robust
performance, with supply expected to surpass levels from the previous
year, particularly in the summer and fall seasons, " Newman said.
" Market forecasts indicate a steady increase in pork supply, driven
by strong demand both domestically and in export markets. Futures
markets have responded positively to this outlook, with prices reaching
new highs. "
56 - JUNE 2024
supermarketperimeter.com
National Pork Board
http://www.supermarketperimeter.com
Supermarket Perimeter - June 2024

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Supermarket Perimeter - June 2024
