A range of factors continue to disrupt supply chains including the war in Ukraine, labour shortages, increased costs of production, extreme weather conditions and the cost-of-living crisis.
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This is covered in more detail in our latest Viewpoint report – Time to plan for a weak recovery? Download either the full report or a one-page executive summary here.
Availability concerns decline
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In the latest consumer research conducted for IGD (17-18 May 2023), two thirds of adults (64%) experienced shortages of some food and groceries in-store or online recently. This has declined sharply, by 10%, since last month. This is the lowest level since September 2022. However, this is still significantly higher than when this was first measured in July’21 (50%).
Concerns over fresh produce and dairy availability decline
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Availability concerns have declined for fresh produce (32% compared to 40% last month) and dairy (33% compared to 40% last month). This followed some supermarkets introducing limits on some fruit and vegetables. This was due to extreme weather conditions in Spain and north Africa affecting harvests.
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Availability concerns for fresh produce and dairy including eggs differ by region.
Availability concerns for fresh produce is highest for those living in Northern Ireland (42%), North East (40%), Scotland and the South East (35% each). It is lowest in the West Midlands (20%).
Availability concerns for dairy is highest in Wales (48%), London and South East (36%). It is lowest in Northern Ireland (20%).
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