The boom in popularity of dishes such as pulled pork is moving the goalposts for operators when it comes to effective menu planning, buying specialist Lynx Purchasing is warning.
Demand flattening out pork pricing peaks and troughs
The growing consumer appetite for US-style hot dogs and BBQ dishes such as ribs and pulled pork has largely flattened out the seasonal peaks and troughs that used to be seen in pork prices, reports the newly-published Autumn/Winter 2014 edition of the Lynx Purchasing Market Forecast.
“We’re definitely now seeing what you might call the ‘pork belly effect’ extend to other cuts,” says Lynx managing director John Pinder. “Where pork belly was once a very cost effective option for dishes such as stews and pies, once gastropubs and then national pub and restaurant groups moved it centre-plate, the price inevitably increased.
“We’re now seeing a similar effect on pork shoulder, which is an ideal cut for slow cooking. With pulled pork now appearing not simply on the menu in specialist BBQ restaurants, but in many mainstream restaurants and pubs, demand for pork shoulder is high all year around.”
Seasonal variations no longer available for operators
Lynx’s report, based on exclusive insights from its suppliers, tallies with the most recent Menurama data from industry analyst Horizons, which reported that hot dogs appeared on 86% more menus in June 2014 than a year previously, with pork ribs the second biggest riser with an increase of 15%.
“Pork still represents very good value for caterers,” says Pinder, “but the reality is that the price is going to remain at a steady level all year round rather than see the seasonal variations that clever operators have been able to take advantage of in the past. The one exception, inevitably, is demand for streaky bacon in the run-up to Christmas, which as ever is going to push up the price as we get closer to December.”
Turkey pricing trends
The Market Forecast also sounds a warning note on turkey prices, which took a seasonal upturn earlier than expected at the start of September. “We’re keeping a close eye on pricing trends as our customers plan their Christmas menus,” says Pinder.
“Most suppliers won’t have their birds fully ready for market for a few more weeks, so the picture on turkey prices won’t be totally clear until mid-November, although we’re already negotiating prices for some of our customers who are placing large orders for their Christmas menus.”
Positive news on seasonal produce
There is more positive news on seasonal produce after mild weather across the UK and Europe this year. Pinder adds: “Generally availability is good, quality of produce high and value for money excellent, while the stronger pound following the ‘no’ vote in the Scottish referendum will make produce imports from Europe better value. Operators should be planning their menus around seasonal fruit and veg wherever possible across the autumn and into the Christmas trading period.
“The Russian ban on imports of food and drink products from the UK will also potentially benefit operators. We’re talking to some of our specialist suppliers, and there are likely to be some bargains on offer on products such as smoked salmon and premium cheeses such as cheddar and stilton, that were previously earmarked for the oligarchs.”
Lynx Purchasing works with more than 2,000 businesses, offering caterers access to the best prices in the market, with no fees or contracts. Lynx customers also benefit from detailed market insight, enabling them to plan menus more effectively.
A FREE copy of the Autumn/Winter 2014 Lynx Purchasing Market Forecast can be downloaded from the Lynx Purchasing here
For more information click here