Organic sector expected to exceed £2bn despite 'Brexit uncertainty'

Growth of organic sales through supermarkets in the 52 weeks to June 18 increased over five per cent, according to Nielsen data.

Growth continued through the first half of 2016 and is now 5.2 per cent compared to 3.2 per cent at the end of 2015, against a decline of 0.9 per cent in non-organic sales for same period.

Brexit

Clare McDermott, business development director at Soil Association Certification said: “Despite an uncertain market following Brexit, Soil Association Certification is positive about the future of organic and we expect this year’s Organic September to have an even bigger impact than before.

"Market growth is already strong and there’s a clear demand for organic, environmentally friendly and sustainable purchasing with many young professionals.

“The UK will still be required to comply with EU organic standards as minimum to maintain the flow of organic products to and from the EU.”

Earlier this year Organic Farmers and Growers warned leaving the UK could be disastrous for the sector. Read the full story here

Prices

Produce remains buoyant and canned and packaged are strong, driven in part by cereals and tea. But organic meat is the star performer, with beef sales increasing significantly since Newcastle University published research into nutrition in organic meat and milk in February.

Organic customers continue to seek out products away from supermarkets. Independent shopping is still rising - up 7.5 per cent - and online and box scheme sales rose by 9.1 per cent. Soil Association Certification also reported increased interest in conversion to organic farming in the last year.

Retailers

For retailers there is free marketing support and point of sale materials. Click here for more information.

Sainsburys, Tesco, Waitrose and Ocado plan activities including on-pack promotion using Organic September stickers, range promotions, magazine features and sampling. Big produce businesses are using the marketing materials, as are independent retailers and farmers selling direct to customers.

Mark Haynes, managing director at G’s Fresh said: “There’s a growing demand for organic at the moment. Organic September is a great way to focus customers’ attention on organic and link products right through the supply chain, from point of sale to producer.”

For the fourth year running, Organic September is sponsored by Good Energy.