regional report > Rhône-Alps
Comments on distribution
Distribution of bio products is very varied. Even if most of them are sold in the great distribution, the specialized shops defend their positions. They chose to propose between 3.500 and 6.000 references in their shops. Most of the distribution companies intend to increase their bio-offer during the next years. In terms of R&D mostly marketing aspects are relevant.
Characteristics :
- Distribution companies keep a close watch on their stock level trying to find the optimum between quantity, logistic costs and freshness.
- They monitor their margins.
- They carry out market studies.
- Sometimes bio products are not sufficiently available.
- Distribution companies feel the need of a clear positioning of bio products compared to other labels.
- Some of the companies wish an organisation of the market avoiding unnecessary transport costs.
Comments on processing
For the processing companies a bio product is a product of high quality. This is one of the reasons why their product standards go beyond those required in the regulations. These companies are generally international : 60 % of them export and all import from all over the world. They keep a special attention to the wish for innovation in terms of product and process. For the bio-specialized processing companies, this is a strategic choice.
Characteristics :
- Traceability
- The processing companies monitor their margins and carry out market studies.
- They describe the relation with their supplies as a partnership-relation.
- Due to regulations required, the efforts in control are more and more important.
- The missing homogenisation between European and worldwide regulations is difficult for competitivity.
- The need of the right marketing.