A new Rabobank ‘Food Retail’ report finds consumer preferences for healthy, gourmet or convenient foods are being driven to extremes. Increased food prices could, however, heighten consumers’ price sensitivity. “In spite of the economic decline, many consumers continue to be driven by factors beyond price, which has created a ‘barbelling’ trend,” said Rabobank Analyst Stephen Rannekleiv. “This means consumers are gravitating toward one extreme or the other – whether it’s... ...Read more »

Fuel is just one factor in the commodity boom that is expected to continue due to income and population growth, freer trade and globalization, and resource scarcity, according to a Rabobank report, “The Boom Beyond Commodities.” Food prices are anticipated to remain high and there will be substantial growth prospects for some sectors of the food industry. “While biofuels will be responsible for a significant share of added demand for commodities in the coming years, food will remain... ...Read more »

Despite the difficult environment at both domestic and global levels, the Australian wine industry continues to expand. The challenge, according to a recently released report from the world’s leading food and agribusiness bank, is how to grow value as well as volume. According to the Rabobank report, the Australian wine industry needs to break away from its image as a supplier of inexpensive wines and begin to improve the average price per bottle in order to secure a sustainable future. Report... ...Read more »