A recent webinar hosted by The British Home Enhancement Trade Association (BHETA) has highlighted opportunities for housewares suppliers who are keen to expand into the foodservice sector.
Keith Warren, chief executive of the Foodservice Equipment Association (FEA), formerly CESA, gave BHETA members an overview of the foodservice market in general and specifically in the light of Covid-19. He cited high levels of investment and the consequences of on-going change and dynamism as significant opportunities for diversification.
Catering utensils and tableware form a significant category within foodservice across both commercial (ie profit making catering) and non-commercial. Moreover, despite the pandemic, demand in this category has remained relatively stable. Despite significant downturns in income for operators during lockdown, underlying trends in favour of eating out, take out food and home delivery remain strong. The key issue, explained Keith, is the rapidity of change as the dynamics of the market alter in line with contemporary trends, something accelerated by the impact of Covid.
He talked about trends and challenges that should be addressed by suppliers, including sustainability and changing taste in flavours, including reducing consumption and emerging cuisines.
All BHETA webinars are free for members, but any company interested in joining BHETA can attend one free trial session. To register for any of the BHETA webinars, or for more information about future events, contact Nicola Adams at the BHETA Member Services Team on 07946 078566, or alternatively, email on na@bheta.co.uk.
* BHETA’s next webinar, featuring Lakeland, takes place on Tuesday, November 24 at 2.30pm.
