Grocery Sales Accelerate in Australia

Sales of packaged groceries in Australia increased over the last month, in the wake of the September terrorist attacks on the US and the collapse of Ansett, according to ACNielsen's latest Scantrack retail measurement information.

According to ACNielsen, year on year growth in packaged grocery expenditure in Australia just prior to September 11 was up 5.7% on last year, whilst the 3 weeks after the terrorist attacks saw growth increasing to +7.3%. This pattern was consistent across all states.

According to Anton van den Berg, marketing manager, ACNielsen Scantrack, "This is not to say consumer confidence has been unaffected by the recent global and domestic turmoil. Traditionally, packaged groceries are more insulated from declines in consumer confidence levels compared to other categories such as luxury goods and travel. A possible explanation for the acceleration in grocery sales growth is that consumers in uncertain times may be less likely to go out. This would negatively affect restaurants and cafes - and benefit supermarkets."

All articles 2006-22 written and edited by Mel Crowther and/or Nick Thomas unless otherwise stated.