Page 43 - Conveniece World Magazine Nov/Dec 2020

CONFECTIONERY CONFECTIONERY COMEBACK By Nerine Zoio Confectionery in the petrol and convenience sector hasn’t had an entirely smooth time under Covid-19 restrictions, and has in varying degrees lost some of its standing. All is not lost by any stretch of the imagination, though, with some confectioners attesting to positive sales in the channel as the category continues to put its best foot forward to regain its foothold. The channel, which spans food and non-food, is worth $5 billion in Australia. It recorded value growth of 0.4 per cent (IRI Convenience Scan, 14 June) compared to the same period last year despite bushfires and pandemic times. However, not all categories saw growth, with confectionery down 9.5 per cent, automotive down 18 per cent, snack foods down 12.2 per cent, and ready to drink beverages down 7.6 per cent compared to the same quarter last year. Channel performance also differs across states. In the second quarter, compared to the same quarter in 2019, Western Australia was up 8.5 per cent, South Australia 5.4 per cent and Queensland 2.9 per cent. However, as expected, Victoria declined by 6.9 per cent, NSW by 2.5 per cent, and Tasmania by 2.7 per cent. KitKat has most certainly felt the zeitgeist and pulled out all the stops to offer a super convenient and highly innovative confectionery break, while Robern Menz, CTC and The Rocky Road House confirm that sales are performing well overall. Some confectionery manufacturers are are also showing their eco-friendly side by giving palm oil a thumbs down. NOV/DEC, 2020 CONVENIENCE WORLD 41 looks to make