Insights into United Kingdom Poultry Meat Market Industry Dynamics

Key Insights

The United Kingdom poultry meat market is experiencing robust growth, fueled by rising consumer demand for protein-rich foods and the convenience offered by poultry products. With a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 26.40% from 2019 to 2024, the market demonstrates significant potential. This growth is driven by several key factors, including the increasing popularity of convenient ready-to-eat meals, a growing preference for healthier protein sources, and consistent innovation within the poultry sector, leading to new product offerings and enhanced processing techniques. The market segmentation reveals strong performance across various forms, including canned, fresh/chilled, frozen, and processed poultry. The off-trade distribution channel (supermarkets, retail stores) is likely dominant, reflecting modern consumer purchasing habits. Leading companies like 2 Sisters Food Group, Cranswick plc, and Gressingham Foods are key players, constantly adapting to market demands and influencing trends. While precise market size figures are not available, estimates suggest a substantial market value, with significant future growth expected due to evolving consumer preferences and continuous industry investments in technology and production efficiency. Further growth is expected to be influenced by factors such as fluctuating feed prices, government regulations concerning animal welfare and food safety, and changes in consumer dietary choices.

Looking ahead to the forecast period (2025-2033), the UK poultry meat market is projected to continue its upward trajectory, albeit potentially at a moderated CAGR compared to the historical period. The market is likely to see ongoing consolidation, with larger players acquiring smaller businesses and further improving their market share. Innovative processing technologies, such as automation and improved packaging solutions, will enhance efficiency and reduce costs, ultimately influencing retail prices. This market expansion is anticipated to be distributed across various segments. The canned and frozen segments might benefit from extending shelf life and improving accessibility, while the fresh/chilled category will likely continue to dominate due to a preference for fresh products. The continuing focus on sustainability, animal welfare, and ethically-sourced products will be a significant driver of future market segmentation, creating opportunities for businesses that can meet evolving consumer demands and regulatory requirements. Further regional variations within the UK market are anticipated, mirroring differences in consumer preferences and economic conditions across various regions.

United Kingdom Poultry Meat Market: A Comprehensive Report (2019-2033)

This in-depth report provides a comprehensive analysis of the United Kingdom poultry meat market, encompassing historical data (2019-2024), current estimations (2025), and future projections (2025-2033). It delves into market dynamics, growth trends, regional variations, and key players, offering invaluable insights for industry professionals, investors, and strategic decision-makers. The report covers key segments including fresh/chilled, frozen, processed, and canned poultry meat, distributed through both on-trade and off-trade channels.

United Kingdom Poultry Meat Market Dynamics & Structure

This section analyzes the UK poultry meat market's competitive landscape, technological advancements, regulatory environment, and market trends. The market is moderately concentrated, with key players holding significant market shares, but a substantial presence of smaller regional producers also exists. Technological innovations focus on automation, improved processing efficiency, and sustainable packaging solutions. Stringent food safety regulations and environmental concerns shape industry practices. Consumer preferences for convenience, health, and ethical sourcing significantly influence product development and marketing strategies. Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity has been moderate in recent years, driven primarily by consolidation efforts and expansion strategies.

• Market Concentration: xx% controlled by the top 5 players in 2024.
• Technological Innovation: Focus on automation, sustainable packaging (e.g., Cranswick's shift to PaperLite™), and traceability systems.
• Regulatory Framework: Stringent food safety and labeling regulations impact production and distribution.
• Competitive Substitutes: Red meat, plant-based alternatives, and imported poultry.
• End-User Demographics: Growing demand from health-conscious consumers and changing dietary habits.
• M&A Trends: Moderate activity, driven by consolidation and geographic expansion. xx M&A deals recorded between 2019-2024.

United Kingdom Poultry Meat Market Growth Trends & Insights

The UK poultry meat market experienced consistent growth between 2019 and 2024, driven by factors including rising consumer demand, increasing disposable incomes, and the convenience offered by poultry products. The market size is projected to reach xx million units in 2025 and exhibit a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of xx% during the forecast period (2025-2033). Technological disruptions, such as automation and improved processing techniques, have boosted efficiency and production capacity, while shifting consumer preferences towards healthier and ethically sourced poultry have influenced product innovation. Market penetration of processed and value-added poultry products is expected to increase significantly, driven by changing lifestyles and convenience-seeking consumers.

Dominant Regions, Countries, or Segments in United Kingdom Poultry Meat Market

The fresh/chilled segment dominates the UK poultry meat market, accounting for approximately xx% of total market volume in 2024. This is attributed to consumer preference for freshness and quality. The off-trade distribution channel, encompassing supermarkets and retailers, holds the largest market share, indicating strong retail demand. Regional variations exist, with higher consumption rates in densely populated areas and regions with strong poultry farming traditions.

• Key Drivers: Growing consumer demand, rising disposable incomes, robust retail infrastructure.
• Dominance Factors: High consumer preference for fresh/chilled poultry, strong retail penetration, established supply chains.
• Growth Potential: Continued growth projected for the fresh/chilled and off-trade segments, driven by evolving consumer needs and retail expansion.

United Kingdom Poultry Meat Market Product Landscape

The UK poultry meat market offers a diverse range of products, from fresh and chilled cuts to processed and value-added items like ready-to-eat meals and convenience products. Innovations focus on convenience, health, and sustainability, with an emphasis on reduced-fat options, antibiotic-free poultry, and eco-friendly packaging. Key performance metrics include shelf life, yield, and product quality, all subject to continuous improvement through technological advancements and production optimization.

Key Drivers, Barriers & Challenges in United Kingdom Poultry Meat Market

Key Drivers: Rising demand for convenient and healthy protein sources, growing retail sector expansion, technological advancements in processing and packaging.

Key Challenges: Fluctuating feed prices impacting production costs, stringent food safety regulations and compliance requirements, competition from imported poultry and alternative protein sources. The closure of Avara Foods' Abergavenny factory in 2023 exemplifies the impact of inflationary pressures and reduced retail demand on the sector.

Emerging Opportunities in United Kingdom Poultry Meat Market

Growing demand for sustainable and ethically sourced poultry presents significant opportunities for producers who prioritize environmentally friendly practices and animal welfare. Further penetration into ready-to-eat and value-added poultry products with innovative flavors and packaging can attract health-conscious and convenience-seeking consumers. Evolving consumer preferences towards plant-based alternatives create a need for innovation in hybrid products.

Growth Accelerators in the United Kingdom Poultry Meat Market Industry

Technological advancements, strategic partnerships among producers, retailers and food service providers, and investments in sustainable and efficient processing methods drive long-term growth. Market expansion through penetration into niche segments and export markets will contribute to growth.

Key Players Shaping the United Kingdom Poultry Meat Market Market

• Copas Traditional Turkeys
• Wild Meat Company
• Lambert Dodard Chancereul (LDC) Group
• Salisbury Poultry (Midlands) Ltd
• Avara Foods Ltd
• Blackwells Farm
• 2 Sisters Food Group
• Cranswick plc
• Gressingham Foods
• JBS SA
• Donald Russell Ltd
• Danish Crown AmbA

Notable Milestones in United Kingdom Poultry Meat Market Sector

• May 2023: Avara Foods Ltd announced the closure of its Abergavenny factory due to inflationary pressures and reduced retail demand for UK-produced turkey.
• May 2023: Cranswick Convenience Foods adopted PaperLite™ packaging, reducing plastic use.
• June 2023: Gressingham Group acquired Hemswell Coldstore, expanding its cold storage capacity by 5000 pallets.

In-Depth United Kingdom Poultry Meat Market Market Outlook

The UK poultry meat market is poised for continued growth, driven by robust demand and innovation. Opportunities lie in expanding value-added product offerings, embracing sustainable practices, and exploring new distribution channels. Strategic partnerships and investments in technological upgrades will be crucial for sustaining competitiveness and achieving long-term success. The market's future hinges on navigating challenges related to feed costs, regulations, and competition while catering to evolving consumer preferences.

United Kingdom Poultry Meat Market Segmentation

• 1. Form
  • 1.1. Canned
  • 1.2. Fresh / Chilled
  • 1.3. Frozen
  • 1.4. Processed
    • 1.4.1. By Processed Types
      • 1.4.1.1. Deli Meats
      • 1.4.1.2. Marinated/ Tenders
      • 1.4.1.3. Meatballs
      • 1.4.1.4. Nuggets
      • 1.4.1.5. Sausages
      • 1.4.1.6. Other Processed Poultry
• 2. Distribution Channel
  • 2.1. Off-Trade
    • 2.1.1. Convenience Stores
    • 2.1.2. Online Channel
    • 2.1.3. Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
    • 2.1.4. Others
  • 2.2. On-Trade

United Kingdom Poultry Meat Market Segmentation By Geography

• 1. United Kingdom