What you need to know
Estimated at £963 million in 2017, total sales of table sauces, pickles, chutneys and relishes grew by 2% over 2012-17. This, however, masks variations across different categories, with only half of segments seeing value sales increase. The growth of own-label condiments/dressings contributed to this by ramping up pressure on brands and driving values down.
Volume sales for the largest segment – thick table sauces – have been hit by wider trends in the overall food market. Customers actively reducing their consumption of key carrier products, such as processed meat, has curbed usage of ketchup and brown sauce in particular.
Interest in emerging cuisines has proved a double-edged sword for the market. Sales of dish-specific sauces have continued on a downward trajectory, however, NPD (New Product Development) in mayonnaise inspired by hot and spicy flavours has provided a boost for the segment. Pairing suggestions for dish-specific sauces outside their traditional accompaniments offer a means to re-engage consumers.
Products covered in this Report
This Report examines the UK retail market for ready-to-eat table sauces, pickles, chutneys and relishes.
Table sauces are generally added to a meal at the table as an accompaniment, although they can also be used as an ingredient in cooking. The market can be segmented as follows:
Bottled table sauces include sauces such as tomato ketchup, brown and other thick sauces, such as barbecue and thick chilli. Also included are thin table sauces, including soy, Worcestershire, tabasco, thin chilli and other related varieties.
Dish-specific sauces comprise those sauces that have traditionally been associated with a particular dish, such as mint (with lamb), horseradish (with beef), tartare (with fish) and apple (with pork). They are generally sold in jars rather than bottles.
Vinegar including malt vinegar and balsamic, red wine, sherry, white wine, cider and other speciality vinegars.
Salad sauces including mayonnaise, salad cream and salad dressings.
Mustard includes the traditional varieties – English, French and German – and speciality mustards.
Pickles/chutneys/relishes.
Excluded from this Report are:
Seasonings.
Edible oils eg olive oils.
Cooking sauces.
Sales to the catering trade.
