Products in demand
Commenting on popular categories, Vachani said, “Traditionally, during Ramadan, we see accelerated demand for dates, yoghurt, fresh foods like fruits and vegetables as well as canned products. As people are staying home, we see an uptick in baking categories too.”
Urban Foods also confirms surge in similar product categories including beverages, sweets, baking items and consumables like paper plates. “However, this year we are expecting some changes, as home iftar and suhoor will have to be limited to people within home and immediate family,” Lack observed. “This will be a tough time for everyone as they will not be able to celebrate with their loved ones in the normal way. However, we do still encourage families to come together at these times over social media and the new digitally connected channels to celebrate together, even though apart.”
“We also see a high demand for fresh foods, like fruits and vegetables,
poultry in addition to nuts and dates. Basic commodities like rice, pasta, milk and juices are in demand too,” Latour added. “There is not much change in the product categories, but in the way, consumers approach shopping – conversion from store visits to home delivery.”
Offering organic and mostly locally produced goods, Balderstone shared, “Traditionally we see a rise is superfoods, fresh-pressed juices, dates, honey chocolate and gifting items during Ramadan. This year too, there is a rise in demand for foods with high antioxidants and nutritional properties and drinks that support hydration to ensure immune systems are kept strong. I also think there will be a lot more consideration to what food people eat. People are understandably anxious about the Coronavirus disease, and many our customers are reaching out for advice on the best ways to keep their immune systems as strong as possible.”
“This year is very different to a typical Ramadan season,” observed BinDawood. “We have seen an uplift in products with long shelf-life. We see growth in frozen items and canned foods. During a typical Ramadan, people like to go out for iftar and suhoor. Still, due to the varying levels of movement restrictions, people are buying the ingredients needed to prepare their favourite dishes at home. For example, we have seen an increase in ingredients for baked goods. On the other hand, to minimise trips to the supermarkets, people aren’t relying much on ‘ready-made’ and ‘pre-cooked’ meals.”