Pet requisites still in demand

In American grocery stores, sales of dog food and treats have increased by 12.2 per cent compared with last year, while sales of cat food and treats have risen by 14.6 per cent. This was reported by the online magazine Supermarket News. It reports that fresh and frozen pet food has recorded the biggest percentage growth in the pet category overall. Premiumisation is driving sales in the supermarkets despite inflationary pressure, persistent supply chain problems and the growth of online retailing, according to the report.

“Growth is attributable primarily to rising prices, however,” Shep Kroner, director of customer insight at UNFI Brands, is quoted as saying. Jeff Tawson, category manager at grocery business Raley's, added that branded manufacturers of pet food have increased prices by between 7 and 17 per cent.