By ISN Editor: Riad Beladi
In France, dairy products hold a special place in the culinary landscape, with the average consumer enjoying a wide array of options from cheese to yogurt. The French are known for their love of quality dairy products, leading to high levels of consumption. According to recent statistics, the average French citizen consumes around 25 kilograms of cheese and approximately 20 kilograms of yogurt annually. This trend emphasizes the importance of sourcing quality products for supermarkets. To gain insights into the sourcing decisions and consumer preferences in the dairy sector, Riad Beladi, the editor for International Supermarket News, spoke with Jean Michel Le Marchand, a former dairy product buyer at Carrefour France.
Interview Questions and Answers:
- How do you evaluate new dairy suppliers when they apply to be listed in your store?
- We assess several criteria, such as product quality, production capacity, and compliance with food safety standards. A sample of the products is always requested for evaluation.
- What criteria are most important to you when deciding to add a new dairy product to your range?
- Quality and taste are paramount, but we also consider price and innovation. If a product brings something new to the market, it captures our attention.
- How does consumer loyalty to a brand influence your purchasing decisions regarding dairy products?
- Consumer loyalty is essential. If a product has a loyal customer base, it gives us confidence in its quality and demand. We are more likely to add products that already have a positive reputation.
- What trends have you observed in consumer choices regarding dairy products, such as cheese and yogurt?
- Consumers are increasingly leaning towards organic and local options. There is also a growing interest in low-lactose products and plant-based alternatives.
- What is the top-selling dairy product in French supermarkets, and why do you think it is so popular?
- Cheese remains the best-selling dairy product. Its popularity lies in the wide variety it offers, and it is an integral part of French food culture.