The landscape of retail and grocery is rapidly evolving in 2024, with plant-based products diversifying beyond expectations and minority-owned businesses rising to prominence.

Your Plant-Based Set Goes Far Beyond Meat Alternatives

Plant-based products are redefining grocery shopping, extending their reach into every corner of the store. The dairy aisle is transformed with a plethora of milk alternatives derived from oats, peas, and nuts, alongside a range of dairy-free cheeses that challenge traditional palates. The frozen foods section boasts not just plant-based meats but an array of pizzas, international dishes, and even seafood alternatives.

Snack aisles are brimming with plant-based jerky, chips, dips, and sweets, catering to every craving. Desserts, too, have joined the plant-based movement, with a variety of dairy-free ice creams, chocolates, and baked goods. Beverages, from dairy-free creamers to protein shakes, align with the health-conscious trend, while functional foods like protein powders and energy bars embody plant-based nutrition’s versatility.

Prepared foods sections are now hubs of plant-based innovation, offering ready-to-eat meals that are both convenient and nutritious. This diversity in plant-based products signifies a shift from niche to mainstream, providing opportunities for retailers to cater to a broader, more diverse consumer base.

Women and Minority-Owned Companies Take Center Stage

An inspiring trend in 2024 is the increasing visibility and success of women and minority-owned businesses in the plant-based sector. These companies are bringing unique flavors, ingredients, and culinary traditions to the forefront, enriching the plant-based market with their diverse perspectives.

Retailers are recognizing the value these companies add, not just in terms of product diversity, but also in contributing to social equity within the food industry. As a result, there’s a concerted effort to showcase diverse-owned companies, providing them with the platform and support to reach a wider audience. This trend is empowering consumers to make choices that align with their values and cultural heritage, offering the opportunity to develop genuine relationships between your store and your customers.

Embracing a New Era in Retail and Grocery

In response to these trends, retailers are adapting with targeted marketing, educational initiatives, and collaborations with plant-based influencers. These efforts aim to educate consumers about the benefits and breadth of plant-based products, and to promote the values of inclusivity, health and sustainability.

The year 2024 marks a pivotal moment for the retail and grocery sector, as it embraces the expanding scope of plant-based products and the vital role of diverse businesses. This shift is not just about offering alternative products; it’s about being at the forefront of a movement that champions health, sustainability, and equality.