Retail
Read up on what’s happening with beef, including the latest retail trends and sales data.
beef is retail's mvp
Looking for ways to boost your bottom line? Start here to find no-nonsense information about what’s driving sales nationwide.
Half-Way There: Retail Beef Performance at the Summer Midpoint
According to the Farmers’ Almanac, the official midpoint of Summer occurred on August 7, 2023. This also means that we are approaching the end of summer grilling season, which typically runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Summer grilling season is typically one of the best seasons for beef sales, Given the vitality of this period to retail beef performance, many industry stakeholders may be wondering how the 2023 summer grilling season is comparing with years past.
A MID-YEAR UPDATE FROM NCBA CEO, COLIN WOODALL
As I travel around the country talking to cattle producers, I see more smiles on their faces than I have in years. Spring moisture has been better than expected, and some of the hardest-hit drought areas are beginning to see relief, allowing cattle producers retain their herds and continue to produce high quality beef.
Beef & Cattle Markets on the Move
Cattle and beef markets continue the march higher with the first half of 2023 nearing completion. Question regarding the economy and recessionary fears remain unanswered, including their impact on the consumer as it pertains to beef demand.
ARE CONSUMERS STILL SATISFIED WITH STEAK?
Beef steak has historically been a popular cut among beef consumers, both at retail and foodservice. While beef steak may be associated with a higher average price compared to other protein products, a consistently satisfying eating experience continues to drive its popularity.
BEEF PERFORMANCE AT RETAIL
In this highly competitive retail environment, it is important for retailers to highlight products that drive more dollars to their bottom line. We partnered with NielsenIQ, a syndicated data provider, to conduct a study utilizing their Homescan panel made up of 125,000 consumers. The panel study surveyed retail grocery shoppers and covered three main areas including shopping habits, a "cross-purchase analysis", and a demographic profile.
Use these real-world resources to make more informed choices for your business.
wholesale prices - updated weekly
Get a unique top-line view of average reported wholesale prices on beef subprimal cuts. Charts are prepared using data from USDA Market News and the VMMEAT® System by Meat Solutions.
cut charts
Our beef cut posters are the most effective tools for learning about the various cuts of beef, where they come from on the carcass, and the recommended cooking method for each cut.
yield data
Review general guidelines for approximate yields when fabricating newer beef cuts from traditional subprimals, like those from the Chuck primal. Start here, then do your own testing to dial in exact numbers for your operation.
Resources for Retail Dietitians
Health and nutrition are top of mind for consumers and can be a barrier when deciding to purchase beef. With more dietitians working in retail grocery, there's an opportunity for meat departments and dietitians to work together to help consumers understand the meat case, the nutritional benefits of beef, enhance food safety and provide meal solutions.
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News You Can Use
Catch the latest on beef retail sales and insights for your business.
Digging into the latest data around beef consumers' purchasing behavior, perceptions, and overall trends in the foodservice market.
Despite what has been considered a period of mass uncertainty amid volatile market conditions, consumers are still appearing eager to enjoy social activity and occasions to fire up their backyard barbecues. According to a Beef Checkoff funded survey, consumers are planning on grilling 10 times per month this summer, up 0.8 occasions (8.3%) compared to last year.
CURRENT PROTEIN PROMOTIONAL ENVIRONMENT AT RETAIL
Some of the greatest tools that retail stores possess to drive consumer demand include various promotional incentives, such as circulating advertisements or digital circulars featuring items, displaying items in prominent positions or with signage in the stores, coupons, and markdowns. These different promotions help draw shoppers’ attention to store departments and the fresh meat department is no exception.
PRODUCTION CLAIMS AT RETAIL
When a consumer enters a retail store, they have more options today than ever before. Fresh beef receives a lot of focus from consumers and the beef industry is diverse and innovative in the fresh products it offers. Whether it is aging, USDA grade, or what breed of cattle the beef was derived from, consumers can find products in their local retail store to satisfy their needs.