Financial constraints are restricting ‘green and ethical living’, according to the British-based division of market researchers Mintel. Indeed, one in five consumers are not in a financial position to think about green or ethical issues. Even before the recession, price premiums were a barrier to more widespread take-up of green and ethical products and the evidence of altered priorities is that 12% of adults stated that they could no longer afford price premiums for green or ethical... ...Read more »

The market for products positioned and marketed on the basis of ethical standards (eco-friendly/green, natural/organic, humane, and fair trade) is thriving despite the global recession. Based on data from a proprietary survey, a new report by market research publisher Packaged Facts indicates that one-fourth of adult shoppers frequently purchase certified organic food or beverage products and one-third are usually willing to pay more for organic foods. “With the economy foremost in consumers’... ...Read more »

Despite the deteriorating economy, latest figures from international food and grocery expert, IGD, suggest that ethical shopping for food has not lost momentum. “While becoming increasingly price sensitive in these challenging times, shoppers are not leaving their ethical concerns at home when they go food shopping. The aspiration for high quality, more sustainable food remains, but people are scrutinising closely to get the best value for their values,” Joanne Denney-Finch, Chief Executive... ...Read more »