Bread sales decline, bakeries need to adapt

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There are numerous reasons for this decline. Consumers' fast-paced lifestyles leave them with little time to shop; they have less income due to the effects of the global recession; many are on bread-free diets; there is a decline in breakfast eating; and smaller households that do not need such large quantities of bread are becoming the norm.

This means bakeries need to adapt to market conditions and adapt to their consumers' new consumption patterns if they are to survive.

Today's consumers are enjoying on-the-go snacking products, ethnic and exotic breads and homemade quality goods. There has also been a large move towards gluten and wheat free options which bakeries need to add to their shelves.

Consumers are looking for around the clock options that they can pick up at a time that suits their daily routine, which is why there is a boom in in-store bakeries in the US and even in South Africa.

US bakery in-store sales reached an all-time high in 2012, with sales growing 5.6% to $12.8 billion. The number of in-store bakeries grew by 14%, from 24,400 (2007) to 27,900 (2012). This is phenomenal growth when compared to the package bread segment, which saw less than 1% growth in 2012.

Some retailers are taking in-store bakeries to the next level by creating a traditional bakery feel within the store, whilst others are ensuring the convenience that consumers need by coming up with all kinds of new ideas - even a cupcake vending machine.

South African bakeries need to adapt or die.