The average for 2021 based on 165 countries was 105.854 index points. The highest value was in South Korea: 208.84 index points and the lowest value was in India: 58.17 index points. The indicator is available from 2017 to 2021. Below is a chart for all countries where data are available.

This Australian and New Zealand food category cost dataset was created to inform diet and economic modelling for low and medium socioeconomic households in Australia and New Zealand. The dataset was created according to the INFORMAS protocol, which details the methods to systematically and consistently collect and analyse information on the price of foods, meals and affordability of diets in different countries globally. Food categories were informed by the Food Standards Australian New Zealand (FSANZ) AUSNUT (AUStralian Food and NUTrient Database) 2011-13 database, with additional food categories created to account for frequently consumed and culturally important foods.

Methods The dataset was created according to the INFORMAS protocol [1], which detailed the methods to collect and analyse information systematically and consistently on the price of foods, meals, and affordability of diets in different countries globally.

Cost data were collected from four supermarkets in each country: Australia and New Zealand. In Australia, two (Coles Merrylands and Woolworths Auburn) were located in a low and two (Coles Zetland and Woolworths Burwood) were located in a medium metropolitan socioeconomic area in New South Wales from 7-11th December 2020. In New Zealand, two (Countdown Hamilton Central and Pak ‘n Save Hamilton Lake) were located in a low and two (Countdown Rototuna North and Pak ‘n Save Rosa Birch Park) in a medium socioeconomic area in the North Island, from 16-18th December 2020.

Locations in Australia were selected based on the Australian Bureau of Statistics Index of Relative Socio-Economic Advantage and Disadvantage (IRSAD) [2]. The index ranks areas from most disadvantaged to most advantaged using a scale of 1 to 10. IRSAD quintile 1 was chosen to represent low socio-economic status and quintile 3 for medium SES socio-economic status. Locations in New Zealand were chosen using the 2018 NZ Index of Deprivation and statistical area 2 boundaries [3]. Low socio-economic areas were defined by deciles 8-10 and medium socio-economic areas by deciles 4-6. The supermarket locations were chosen according to accessibility to researchers. Data were collected by five trained researchers with qualifications in nutrition and dietetics and/or nutrition science.

All foods were aggregated into a reduced number of food categories informed by the Food Standards Australian New Zealand (FSANZ) AUSNUT (AUStralian Food and NUTrient Database) 2011-13 database, with additional food categories created to account for frequently consumed and culturally important foods. Nutrient data for each food category can therefore be linked to the Australian Food and Nutrient (AUSNUT) 2011-13 database [4] and NZ Food Composition Database (NZFCDB) [5] using the 8-digit codes provided for Australia and New Zealand, respectively.

Data were collected for three representative foods within each food category, based on criteria used in the INFORMAS protocol: (i) the lowest non-discounted price was chosen from the most commonly available product size, (ii) the produce was available nationally, (iii) fresh produce of poor quality was omitted. One sample was collected per representative food product per store, leading to a total of 12 food price samples for each food category. The exception was for the ‘breakfast cereal, unfortified, sugars ≤15g/100g’ food category in the NZ dataset, which included only four food price samples because only one representative product per supermarket was identified.

Variables in this dataset include: (i) food category and description, (ii) brand and name of representative food, (iii) product size, (iv) cost per product, and (v) 8-digit code to link product to nutrient composition data (AUSNUT and NZFCDB).

References

Vandevijvere, S.; Mackay, S.; Waterlander, W. INFORMAS Protocol: Food Prices Module [Internet]. Available online: https://auckland.figshare.com/articles/journal_contribution/INFORMAS_Protocol_Food_Prices_Module/5627440/1 (accessed on 25 October).
2071.0 - Census of Population and Housing: Reflecting Australia - Stories from the Census, 2016 Available online: https://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/Lookup/by Subject/2071.0~2016~Main Features~Socio-Economic Advantage and Disadvantage~123 (accessed on 10 December).
Socioeconomic Deprivation Indexes: NZDep and NZiDep, Department of Public Health. Available online: https://www.otago.ac.nz/wellington/departments/publichealth/research/hirp/otago020194.html#2018 (accessed on 10 December)
AUSNUT 2011-2013 food nutrient database. Available online: https://www.foodstandards.gov.au/science/monitoringnutrients/ausnut/ausnutdatafiles/Pages/foodnutrient.aspx (accessed on 15 November).
NZ Food Composition Data. Available online: https://www.foodcomposition.co.nz/ (accessed on 10 December)

Usage Notes The uploaded data includes an Excel spreadsheet where a separate worksheet is provided for the Australian food price database and New Zealand food price database, respectively. All cost data are presented to two decimal points, and the mean and standard deviation of each food category is presented. For some representative foods in NZ, the only NFCDB food code available was for a cooked product, whereas the product is purchased raw and cooked prior to eating, undergoing a change in weight between the raw and cooked versions. In these cases, a conversion factor was used to account for the weight difference between the raw and cooked versions, to ensure that nutrient information (on accessing from the NZFCDB) was accurate. This conversion factor was developed based on the weight differences between the cooked and raw versions, and checked for accuracy by comparing quantities of key nutrients in the cooked vs raw versions of the product.

Supermarket giant Woolworths Group had the highest presence across Australia’s leading supermarket and convenience store chains as of May 2025, with around 2,223 locations across its network, including Woolworths Supermarkets, Ampol Woolworths, and EG Ampol locations. Its grocery retail rival, Coles Group, came in second, with over 1,530 locations nationwide, encompassing Coles Supermarkets and Coles Express. American convenience store chain 7-Eleven also makes its mark, with an extensive number of stores in Australia. European supermarkets, Aldi and Spar, have also expanded their networks over the past two decades, slowly eating away at Woolworths, Coles, and Metcash’s grocery retail market share. ACCC investigates Australia’s grocery retail market Australia’s supermarket scene is oligopolistic; the top four companies, Woolworths, Coles, Metcash (IGA), and Aldi, control over 80 percent of the country’s grocery retail market share, with around 65 percent held by Woolworths and Coles alone. In 2024, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) began its inquiry into the country’s supermarket sector to review pricing and competitive practices following price gouging allegations against Australia’s leading grocery retailers. Alongside the ACCC investigation, consumer advocacy group CHOICE started to create government-funded price transparency and comparison reports, such as average grocery basket price evaluations, to deliver in-depth insights to customers to help them save money amid excessive price increases. In March 2025, the ACCC's review concluded, with its key recommendations encompassing publishing requirements for major supermarkets regarding pricing, promotions, shrinkflation, and loyalty program benefits to offer more transparency to consumers, as well as curb misleading promotional tactics. Nonetheless, the ACCC’s findings were inconclusive on whether price gouging was taking place and noted that profitability was not prohibited. How have Australia’s consumers responded to grocery price inflation? According to a 2024 survey, around 58 percent of Australian consumers perceive the pricing of groceries and related products as unfair, with almost seven in 10 expressing that they felt these products had continued to become costlier since 2023. Convenience, familiarity with a particular store’s layout, and collecting reward points were the key reasons to shop exclusively at a supermarket chain among Australian consumers in a recent survey. Nonetheless, as grocery costs across the country climb, several consumers' grocery retailer loyalties are being tested. Consumers increasingly shop across various stores or switch to cheaper brands to save money and take advantage of price promotions.

In 2023, the value of grocery retail sales from supermarkets in Australia exceeded *** billion Australian dollars. This marked an increase from the previous year, in which grocery retail sales were valued at just shy of *** billion Australian dollars. Which supermarkets dominate Australia’s grocery landscape? Australia’s supermarket and grocery sector is highly concentrated, with the top four companies, Woolworths, Coles, German company Aldi, and IGA (Metcash) holding over ** percent of the country’s grocery retailer market share. The top two supermarkets, Woolworths and Coles, have extensive retail networks across the country, with around ***** stores in the Woolworths network as of May 2025, including Woolworths Supermarkets, Ampol Woolworths, and EG Ampol locations. Inquiry into Australia’s grocery sector Going into 2024, the price of groceries was one of the most pressing financial issues for many Australian households, with almost ** percent of consumers surveyed in April 2024 saying they felt grocery prices had increased compared to the previous year. Only ** percent of Australian consumers indicated in the same survey that, in their view, grocery products were priced fairly by supermarkets. Following price gouging allegations against major supermarket chains in the country, including Australia’s supermarket duopoly, Woolworths and Coles, the Australian Consumer Competition Commission (ACCC) launched its inquiry into the country’s grocery retail sector in January 2024. The inquiry endeavors to highlight key issues across the supermarket sector and introduce improved regulatory framework and pricing mechanisms, enabling better market access for smaller grocery retailers and discounters, as well as improving customer, supply chain contributor, and farmer satisfaction.

According to the findings of a survey conducted in late 2021, around a quarter of consumers in Brazil and Mexico used their smartphones to compare prices of products while shopping in-store. In comparison, this rate was much lower for U.S. consumers, at **** percent.

The FAO Food Price Index (FFPI) averaged 130.1 points in August 2025, almost the same figure as the previous month. The highest value for the index in the past 23 years was reached in March 2022. The rate of food price increases has been decreasing since, yet has started to pick up again in 2025.

Food prices worldwide Some food commodities have been hit harder than others in the past years. Global dairy, meat, and vegetable oil prices were on an upward trajectory in the first half of 2025. Regionally, the European Union (EU) and the UK have experienced a particularly high increase in the annual consumer prices for food and non-alcoholic beverages, as compared to other selected countries worldwide. Inflation in Europe The inflation rate for food in the EU grew from 0.2 percent in May 2021 to 19.2 percent in March 2023, as compared to the same month in the previous year. In the following months, the food inflation started decreasing again, yet has picked up again in 2025 in line with the global trend. The overall inflation rate in the Euro area reached its peak in December 2022 at 9.2 percent. The rate has since fallen to 2.4 percent in December 2024. As measured by the Harmonized Index of Consumer Prices (HICP), inflation rates in Europe were highest in Turkey, Romania, and Estonia as of April 2025.

In July 2025, the inflation rate for food in the European Union (EU) reached 3.9 percent compared to the same month the year prior. Starting in the beginning of 2022, food prices started to rise rapidly. In March 2023, the food inflation rate in the EU reached its peak at 19.19 percent. Since April 2023, the rate started to decrease. Food inflation in Europe One of the main drivers of the increase in consumer prices was the rapid rise in energy prices. In the energy sector, the harmonized index of consumer prices inflation of the EU, a concept to measure and compare inflation internationally, was at 41.1 percent in June 2022, whereas the other categories were all below 10 percent. In Germany, the year-on-year consumer price index development for food and beverages was at 12.33 percent in the year 2023, just a slight dip from the all-time high of 12.51 percent in 2022. By 2024, this had dropped to 1.92 percent. There are a number of ways in which European consumers are trying to save on food costs due to rising prices. The most popular way to deal with the rising food prices is to reduce at-home food waste. An average of about half of consumers in selected European countries stated that this is how they responded to the price increases. Other popular ways were to buy only the essentials or to purchase mostly store brands. Food inflation worldwide In 2022, Europe and Central Asia were the regions with the highest food inflation rates worldwide. The rate of food inflation in those regions was about 18 percent in 2022, which is more than twice as high as it was in the previous year. In Latin America and the Caribbean, the food inflation rate rose from 5.4 to 11.9 percent during the same period. When categorized by income classification, low-income countries have significantly higher food price inflation, as compared to lower-middle-, upper-middle-, and high-income countries. On average, low-income countries had a food price inflation rate of about 30 percent in 2023. The world average rate was at 6.5 percent. Zimbabwe was the country with the highest level of real food inflation worldwide. The southern African country experienced a food inflation of approximately 46 percent in 2024. This was more than two times as high as in any other country in the world.

Ready To Eat Meals Market Outlook

The global ready-to-eat meals market size was valued at approximately USD 122 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 212 billion by 2032. The market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.3% during the forecast period of 2024-2032. This growth is driven by the increasing urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and the fast-paced lifestyle, which collectively boost the demand for convenient meal solutions.

The modernization of lifestyles and the increasing urban population are significant growth drivers for the ready-to-eat meals market. With more people living in urban areas, the demand for quick and easy meal solutions is on the rise. Urban dwellers often have hectic schedules, leading them to opt for convenient food options that save time. Furthermore, the growing number of working women significantly contributes to the increased consumption of ready-to-eat meals, as these products offer a quick solution without compromising on taste or nutritional value.

Rising disposable income in developing countries is another critical factor driving market growth. As consumers' purchasing power increases, they are more likely to spend on convenient food options. The trend is particularly noticeable in countries with rapidly growing middle-class populations. These consumers are increasingly willing to pay a premium for convenience, quality, and variety, all of which are offered by ready-to-eat meal products. Moreover, the influence of Western food culture, which often includes ready-to-eat meals, is growing in these regions, further boosting market demand.

The evolution of food retailing and advancements in distribution channels also play a crucial role in the market's expansion. The proliferation of supermarkets, hypermarkets, and online retail platforms has made it easier for consumers to access a wide variety of ready-to-eat meals. These modern retail channels offer convenience and often provide a broader range of products compared to traditional grocery stores. Additionally, the development of cold chain logistics has facilitated the distribution of frozen and chilled ready-to-eat meals, ensuring product safety and quality.

Regionally, North America and Europe are expected to continue leading the market due to high consumer awareness and the prevalent trend of convenience foods. However, the Asia-Pacific region is projected to witness the highest growth rate, driven by rapid urbanization and increasing disposable incomes in countries like China and India. The Middle East & Africa and Latin America are also anticipated to show significant growth, supported by economic development and changing consumer lifestyles.

Product Type Analysis

The ready-to-eat meals market can be segmented by product type into frozen, chilled, canned, and shelf-stable products. Frozen ready-to-eat meals hold a significant market share due to their extended shelf life and the preservation of nutritional quality. These products are particularly popular in North America and Europe, where consumers prioritize both convenience and nutritional value. The development of advanced freezing technologies has further enhanced the quality and variety of frozen ready-to-eat meals, making them a preferred choice for many consumers.

Chilled ready-to-eat meals are also gaining traction, especially in Europe and North America. These products are often perceived as fresher and healthier compared to frozen or canned alternatives. The increased focus on health and wellness among consumers is driving the demand for chilled ready-to-eat meals. Moreover, the advancements in refrigeration technology and cold chain logistics have made it easier to distribute and store these products, ensuring their freshness and safety.

Canned ready-to-eat meals continue to be popular, particularly in regions with less developed cold chain infrastructure. These products are known for their long shelf life and ease of storage, making them a practical choice for consumers in remote or rural areas. Additionally, canned ready-to-eat meals are often more affordable, catering to price-sensitive consumers. The increasing variety and improved quality of canned meals are also contributing to their sustained demand.

Shelf-stable ready-to-eat meals represent another crucial segment, offering the advantage of long-term storage without the need for refrigeration. These products are particularly popular in regions with limited access to refrigeration or in emergency situations. The introduc

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Cashew Market Size 2023-2027

The global cashew market size is projected to increase by 1,123.96 thousand tons, growing at a CAGR of 5.3% from 2022 to 2027. Market growth is driven by rising lactose intolerance and allergies to soy, hazelnut, and almond milk. The demand for lactose-free and alternative milk options like cashew milk is expanding, particularly in European countries.

Global Cashew Market Overview

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Global Cashew Market Segmentation

This market forecast report extensively covers market segmentation by type (conventional or regular and organic), distribution channel (offline and online), and geography (North America, APAC, Europe, Middle East and Africa, and South America). This cashew market research and growth report also includes an in-depth analysis of drivers, trends, and challenges.

By Type

The market share growth by the conventional segment will be significant during the forecast period. Conventional cashews are produced with the application of pesticides and fertilizers on the nuts.

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The conventional or regular segment was valued at 2,305.22 tons in 2017 and continued to grow until 2021. Conventional farming is usually done on a large scale. In 2022, the low price of conventional compared with that of organic cashews is one of the major factors that drove the growth of the segment during the forecast period. The demand for the former is expected to increase during the forecast period owing to the rising awareness among consumers about the health benefits. Being rich in certain essential proteins and minerals, consumption in appropriate quantities helps in lowering the amount of bad cholesterol low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in the body and, thereby, reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. They also help in healthy muscle development and maintaining healthy bones and teeth, along with boosting the immune system and reducing the risk of diabetes. Hence, such health benefits of conventional cashews at lower cost will drive the growth of the segment during the forecast period.

By Distribution Channel

In 2022, offline distribution channels such as supermarkets, hypermarkets, and convenience stores accounted for the largest market share. Supermarkets and hypermarkets are the most effective distribution channels. An increasing number of hypermarkets and supermarkets are promoting the sale through offline channels. These stores have a large amount of shelf space and storage space to accommodate different types offered by local and international suppliers, allowing consumers to select products based on their preferred flavors and brands, including dairy alternatives. These providers offer their products in supermarkets and hypermarkets such as B. (Reliance Fresh), Spar International, and Spencer`s Retail Ltd. Other Retail Pvt. To grow offline sales, players manage sales through store expansion in local and regional markets. Providers are increasing their offline sales through market expansion plans and offering their products in different regions.

Key Regions

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North America is estimated to contribute 45% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. Technavio’s analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.

In 2022, North America was one of the largest producers of cashews in volume. The increasing production is meeting the rising requirements of consumers in the region. Thus, the significant growth in production and consumption in North America is expected to fuel the market growth during the forecast period.

They are a potential resource of vitamins, particularly vitamin E, and minerals, including magnesium and zinc. As a result, These are a popular snack and are also used in various cuisines and confectioneries. Furthermore, due to the increasing vegan population and growing health concerns over the consumption of dairy-based products, consumers in this region prefer to purchase dairy-free alternatives, including cashew milk. Thus, in recent years, there has been an increase in the consumption of this milk in countries including the US and Canada. Companies are therefore offering this milk that is free from preservatives and contains no artificial colors. Therefore, the above-mentioned factors are estimated to boost the expansion of the regional market during the forecast period.

Global Cashew Market Dynamics and Customer Landscape

The market operates within a dynamic framework, influenced by various factors such as suppliers, prices, exports, and industry trends. With a significant global trade presence, cashews are cultivated in various regions worldwide, with Vietnam emerging as a key player in cashew processing

On September 29, 2025, the price of ultra-low sulfur unleaded petrol (gasoline) in the United Kingdom averaged 134.36 pence per liter. This compared to 142.24 pence per liter for diesel. Diesel prices were consistently higher than petrol/gasoline prices throughout this period, although the margin varied. Reasons for such differences in pricing lie in the refining process and molecular makeup of the products, with diesel requiring more complex refining processes and being an overall heavier liquid. As motor fuel pricing in the UK is not regulated by a monitoring body, there may also be notable differences in prices between retailers and regions. Supermarkets provide lowest fuel prices in the UK In the UK, much of the motor fuel is sold through supermarkets. Large supermarkets, or hypermarkets, account for more than 40 percent of all motor fuel sales in the country. The reason for their popularity often lies in the fact that they offer lower average prices. In the last four years, regular petrol/gasoline sold at supermarkets was up to six pence per liter cheaper than the national average. How UK fuel prices compare to the rest of the world Tied as they are to crude oil prices, motor fuels are generally cheapest in major producing countries, such as Iran, Venezuela, and Russia. In Europe, costs of importing the raw or finished products, in addition to taxes and levies, may hike up pump prices significantly. The UK is often among the countries with the highest petrol/gasoline prices, alongside other large European car markets such as France and Germany.

Private Label Frozen Sides Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the Global Private Label Frozen Sides market size was valued at $8.2 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $15.6 billion by 2033, expanding at a CAGR of 7.2% during the forecast period of 2025–2033. One of the major factors propelling the growth of the Private Label Frozen Sides market globally is the increasing consumer demand for convenient, cost-effective meal solutions that do not compromise on quality or nutritional value. As busy lifestyles become the norm and the trend toward home dining continues, private label frozen sides are gaining traction due to their affordability, variety, and the increasing quality parity with branded products. This shift is further accelerated by retailers’ strategic focus on enhancing private label offerings to boost margins and build brand loyalty among customers.

Regional Outlook

North America currently holds the largest share of the global Private Label Frozen Sides market, accounting for approximately 38% of global revenue in 2024. This dominance is primarily attributed to the mature retail landscape, high consumer acceptance of private label products, and the well-established presence of major supermarket chains such as Walmart, Kroger, and Costco. These retailers have made significant investments in upgrading their private label portfolios, offering a wide variety of frozen sides that rival national brands in both taste and innovation. Furthermore, North American consumers are increasingly value-conscious, seeking high-quality alternatives at lower price points, which has been a key driver for the segment’s expansion. The region also benefits from advanced cold chain logistics and robust distribution networks, ensuring product freshness and availability across urban and rural markets.

The Asia Pacific region is projected to be the fastest-growing market for Private Label Frozen Sides, with a forecasted CAGR of 9.8% from 2025 to 2033. The surge in demand is driven by rapid urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and changing dietary habits, especially among younger demographics in countries like China, India, and Southeast Asia. Modern retail formats, including hypermarkets and online grocery platforms, are expanding their reach, making private label frozen sides more accessible to a broader audience. Additionally, local food preferences are increasingly being addressed through product localization strategies, which further accelerates adoption. The region is also witnessing substantial investments from both domestic and international retailers aiming to capitalize on the burgeoning middle class and their growing appetite for convenient meal solutions.

Emerging economies in Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are experiencing gradual but steady growth in the Private Label Frozen Sides market. However, these markets face unique challenges, such as underdeveloped cold chain infrastructure, fluctuating economic conditions, and varying consumer trust in private label products. Despite these hurdles, there is a noticeable uptick in demand, particularly in urban centers where modern retail outlets are proliferating. Policy reforms aimed at improving food safety standards and encouraging foreign direct investment in the food retail sector are helping to lay the groundwork for future expansion. As consumer awareness about the benefits of frozen sides grows and retailers focus on education and sampling initiatives, adoption rates are expected to improve, albeit at a slower pace compared to more developed regions.

Report Scope

Vegan Frozen Bao Buns Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the Global Vegan Frozen Bao Buns market size was valued at $425 million in 2024 and is projected to reach $1.12 billion by 2033, expanding at a robust CAGR of 11.4% during the forecast period of 2024–2033. The primary driver behind this significant growth is the surging global demand for plant-based, convenient, and healthy meal solutions, particularly among millennials and Gen Z consumers who are increasingly adopting vegan and flexitarian diets. The rapid proliferation of veganism, coupled with advancements in food technology enabling authentic taste and texture replication, is positioning vegan frozen bao buns as a mainstream alternative in both retail and foodservice sectors. As consumers become more health-conscious and ethically driven, the market is witnessing a shift towards frozen vegan products that offer both convenience and culinary diversity, further accelerating the adoption of vegan frozen bao buns worldwide.

Regional Outlook

North America currently dominates the vegan frozen bao buns market, accounting for the largest market share of 34% in 2024. This leadership is attributed to a mature plant-based food industry, strong consumer awareness regarding vegan and cruelty-free products, and the presence of well-established distribution networks. The region’s robust retail infrastructure, coupled with aggressive marketing campaigns by leading brands, has facilitated widespread availability and accessibility of vegan frozen bao buns. Additionally, North American consumers’ increasing demand for ethnic and fusion cuisines has propelled the popularity of bao buns, especially in urban centers. Policy support for plant-based foods, along with a high rate of product innovation and private label launches by major supermarket chains, further consolidates the region’s dominance in the global landscape.

Asia Pacific is emerging as the fastest-growing region in the vegan frozen bao buns market, projected to register a CAGR of 14.2% from 2024 to 2033. This impressive growth is fueled by rising disposable incomes, urbanization, and a growing appetite for convenient, ready-to-eat foods among younger populations. Key countries such as China, Japan, and South Korea are witnessing an uptick in vegan product launches, supported by increasing awareness of health and sustainability issues. Investments by both local and international players in expanding cold-chain logistics and e-commerce platforms are making vegan frozen bao buns more accessible to a broader consumer base. Furthermore, collaborations with foodservice chains and the introduction of regionally inspired flavors are accelerating market penetration and consumer adoption across Asia Pacific.

In contrast, emerging economies in Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa are experiencing gradual adoption of vegan frozen bao buns due to a combination of factors. While the demand for plant-based convenience foods is on the rise, these regions face challenges such as limited cold storage infrastructure, higher product pricing, and lower consumer awareness compared to developed markets. However, localized marketing efforts, growing urban populations, and supportive government policies promoting plant-based diets are starting to create new growth avenues. The presence of a large expatriate population and the increasing influence of global food trends are also driving curiosity and trial among consumers, setting the stage for incremental market expansion in these regions over the coming years.

Report Scope

A considerable share of internet users in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) utilized e-commerce platforms and services in 2024. In addition to buying products online, at least ** percent of users used fintech services such as buy now, pay later (BNPL) to make purchases. Around ** percent of users also reported accessing platforms that provided product price comparison information. E-commerce in the UAE The retail value of e-commerce in the UAE is worth billions of U.S. dollars and has consistently increased each subsequent year during the past four years. Public and private sector services in the UAE are already quite digitized, and the country is often quick to adopt new digital technologies or digitize existing services. Thus, consumers are generally comfortable shopping online, as compared to other countries in the region where e-commerce has only recently begun to gain traction. This has led to many traditional supermarket and hypermarket chains such as Carrefour UAE and Lulu expanding their business online. Nonetheless, certain e-commerce categories in the UAE still hold a larger market share than others. Digital industries The e-commerce sector has had repercussions across a wide range of industries. As an example, there has been increased consumer engagement with digital marketing in the UAE. Additionally, as the online retail space grows, so will support industries such as fulfillment centers, customer support, and courier services. Another payment medium that has benefited from online sales is BNPL, used by a considerable share of internet users. Furthermore, the UAE aims to become one of the world's leading hubs for cryptocurrency and blockchain technology, making it an attractive destination for fans of the digital currency, who were already incentivized by the country’s tax-friendly policies.

Concerning the 11 selected segments, the segment Meat has the largest revenue with 2.5 billion U.S. dollars. Contrastingly, Spreads & Sweeteners is ranked last, with 62.12 million U.S. dollars. Their difference, compared to Meat, lies at 2.4 billion U.S. dollars. Find other insights concerning similar markets and segments, such as a ranking by country regarding revenue in the e-commerce market and a ranking of subsegments in Romania regarding share in the e-commerce market as a whole.The Statista Market Insights cover a broad range of additional markets.

In the United States, online grocery prices hit a five year peak in September 2022, when they registered a 14.3 percent year-over-year increase. In the country, the prices of grocery products available online has increased continuously, only lowering by 0.39 percent as of March 2025, marking an unprecedented period of inflation.

In 2023, Russian residents consumed meat and meat products with an average monthly cost of 2,857.8 Russian rubles per capita. Milk and dairy products were the category with the second-highest monthly consumption value per person. Food consumption in Russia Food-related expenses of an average Russian accounted for roughly one-third of the total consumer budget in the country. In 2020, this share was somewhat greater than over the previous years, which can be explained by COVID-19-related lockdowns and pandemic-induced grocery stocking. Meat, milk, and dairy products were among the priciest grocery items in Russia in 2020. Butter was the third most expensive food product after domestic cognac and black leaf tea in that year, with an average retail price of nearly 640 Russian rubles per kilogram. Online grocery shopping in Russia The e-grocery segment has been steadily gaining popularity in Russia even before COVID-19; however, the latter influenced greatly in fostering online food sales. In 2021, a positive trend continued, with the orders volume nearly tripling year-over-year. X5 Retail Group, with nearly 22 billion Russian rubles in online sales, was the retailer with the highest sales revenue countrywide in 2020, followed by Sbermarket and Utkonos. Moscow residents were the most frequent online grocery shoppers compared to other regions in the country.

With nearly ************ Russian rubles in revenue in 2020, X5 Retail Group ranked as the leading food retailer in Russia. The Russian subdivision of the French company Auchan listed fifth, reporting over *********** Russian rubles in turnover in the country, over the period under consideration.

Key figures of X5 Retail Group

Founded in 2006, in Moscow, X5 Retail Group was a leading food retailer in Russia with a market share of **** percent, in 2020. To date, the group provides several store formats, meeting thus the needs of a larger audience. Pyaterochka was the most profitable brand of the group, accounting for roughly *********** Russian rubles in sales in 2020. Pyaterochka also owned the largest number of stores when compared to other labels of the group, amounting to *** shops countrywide. As of March 2021, the X5 Retail Group announced launching the 'pay with a glance' self-checkout format in partnership with Sberbank. The new biometric payment technology was forecasted to be installed in ***** Group's stores by the end of 2021. 

Grocery shopping behavior among Russians

Russia is gradually becoming a consumer-oriented society where good's quality and longevity have become increasingly appreciated product features. However, most of the consumers in the country remain price-conscious. While majority of shoppers in the market are drawn to items on sale, coupons and loyalty programs have a significant impact on customers' purchase plans. Traditional stores like hypermarkets, supermarkets, and next-door groceries remain the preferred format, nonetheless online grocery shopping recorded remarkable growth due to the pandemic outburst. 

The Consumer Price Index gauges the price changes in a basket of goods and services representative of Mexican households' consumption. As of August 2024, the CPI had increased 4.99 percentage points compared to the same month of the previous year. Despite some fluctuations, the monthly inflation rate in the country has been experiencing an overall downward trend since August 2022. Different forms of measuring inflation The National Institute of Statistics, Geography, and Informatics (INEGI) measures price variations considering a total of 299 goods and services that encompass the most representative goods in rural and urban areas of the country. From the second half of June 2018 to May 2024, the accumulated CPI was around 134.09 points, representing price increases of over 34 percent in almost six years. Nonetheless, not all categories of goods and services increased at the same rate, as of June 2024, food and non-alcoholic beverages recorded the highest CPI with 155 points, followed by restaurants and hotels. Consumer’s perception Consumers in Mexico had experienced rising prices differently, for example, people older than 55 years old had a higher perceived level of inflation in groceries than any other age group. Groceries were the second category with the highest perceived inflation, only behind restaurants, with almost 70 percent of Mexicans reporting high increases. As well as different perceptions, consumers decide to take varying alternatives to cope with the increases, the most common were paying more attention to prices, changing brands of certain products, or reducing consumption.

With increasing modernization in retail, supermarkets are being set up all over India, specifically in big-city urban areas. From a mere *** supermarkets in 2006, this number sky-rocketed to *** thousand in 2016. Despite this growth, extending to large retail chains and e-commerce, Kirana stores or corner shops continued to dominate grocery retail, altering little to shake their popularity.

Kiranas have the local touch 

The Indian retail industry is unique compared to its so-called developed counterparts, largely because the market in India presents challenges that are uncommon to the latter. Traditional Kirana stores crowd the streets of India across urban and rural areas, in contrast to organized retailers which are mainly established in urban areas.

While outlets like Big Bazar and Reliance Fresh sell products at the MRP or Maximum Retail Price, more often than not, one pays less at a Kirana thanks to the art of bargaining. Moreover, the owner or seller at a neighborhood shop becomes an acquaintance; building relationships with each of his or her customers. This helps in meeting the consumers’ demand directly.

 Organize the unorganized sector  

With over ** million traditional Kiranas across the country, a large FMCG retailer is not likely to compete in the long run. That is why, in recent years, Reliance Industries has tied up with Kiranas to better their infrastructure. Since this has already proven to bring in customers in larger numbers, the aim was to digitize and make billing easier for about **** million stores by 2023. Reliance, one of the largest conglomerates in the country, powered by its Jio telecom network intended to create the world’s largest online to offline new e-commerce platform.

Amazon is known as an e-commerce company, but in recent years, the retailer has invested in opening physical stores across the United States with more international expansion in mind. Amazon’s physical retail stores come in different formats, including Amazon Fresh grocery stores, Amazon Go, Amazon Books, Amazon 4 Star, and Amazon Pop-up. Typically, Amazon’s branded devices, books and other merchandise are available in these stores. In the fourth quarter of 2024, net sales from Amazon’s physical retailing amounted to nearly 5.8 billion U.S. dollars. Whole Foods acquisition and Amazon Fresh Amazon’s venture into brick-and-mortar grocery store retailing started with the acquisition of the Whole Foods Market in 2018. By 2017, just before it was bought out by Amazon, the supermarket Whole Foods had registered a net sales revenue of over 16 billion U.S. dollars. In addition to some 500 Whole Foods locations, Amazon’s grocery retail business is supported by Amazon Fresh with stores predominantly in the United States. Outside of the United States, Amazon opened its first Amazon Fresh stores in the United Kingdom in March 2021. Amazon’s retail portfolio Amazon has a diverse retail portfolio, both in terms of merchandise and the business models it offers across its platforms. While it started its e-commerce business as an online retailer acting as the first-party owner of the products on offer, third-party selling on the Amazon marketplace increasingly became the norm among online sellers, who often employ both models when working with Amazon. Since 2017, more than half of paid units of Amazon is attributed to third-party sellers using the Amazon marketplace to sell their products.