The food industry growth pace slows in 2009

The growth of the food and beverage industry will slow in 2009 compared to the past few years, when this was boosted by sectors such as beer, dairy, meat products, and still soft drinks.
The great challenges of 2009 include the financial crisis, which could result in a drop in consumption, greater competition on the local market, considering many foreign companies which have entered the Romanian market, shifts among top companies, and even higher prices for raw materials.

One of the most dynamic sectors in recent years, with Romanian players in top positions, was the meat industry. Following double-digit growth rates posted in the past few years, this segment will register stagnation, while profits will plunge, according to market data. Considering that the Romanian processing industry is dependant on imports, the depreciation of the leu against the euro could lead to higher prices for meat products.

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