At the end of September, Agence BIO presented a mid-year update on organic market data and production trends (excluding out-of-home catering) at the La Terre est Notre Métier trade show in Retiers.
While organic products are still struggling to regain footing in supermarkets and hypermarkets, direct sales and organic shops have seen a renewed increase in demand.
Is the market stabilizing? Although organic sales in supermarkets are declining, there's renewed growth in direct sales and specialized organic shops. Organic products' share of supermarket sales dropped from 4.7% at the start of 2023 to 4.4% by the second quarter of 2024, leading to a decrease in value. However, organic private-label items continue to perform well in these stores.
In contrast, short distribution channels and specialized organic shops have shown growth in value terms, partially offsetting the decrease in supermarket sales:
- +8.4% growth in specialized organic channels
- +3% increase in direct sales
- -5% decrease in supermarket sales by value
French organic livestock farmers are among those hardest hit by reduced volumes in organic consumption, despite the essential role of livestock and natural fertilizers in organic crop fertilization, which avoids nitrogen-based alternatives.
As of June 30, 2024, the balance of organic farming remains positive, with 1,167 new organic growers. The sector continues to attract new entrants:
- +14% increase in new producers compared to the same time in 2023
- +30% rise in producers leaving the sector compared to the same period
Held in Retiers in the heart of Brittany, the La Terre est Notre Métier trade show underscored Agence BIO's message that consumption choices drive the agricultural transition. In France, organic food accounts for 6% of household food expenses and 6% in collective catering, with the EGALim law mandating a minimum of 20% organic content. Supporting organic food consumption enhances the viability of France's 61,000 organic farms and ensures their preservation as a national asset.
Source: Agence Bio
Photo: ©Xavier Remongin/Ministère de l'Agriculture