Good value is key this Christmas, new report says
Negotiating on price when ordering seasonal produce could pay dividends for operators this Christmas, a new report from buying group Lynx Purchasing has claimed.
The firm’s Autumn 2015 market forecast highlighted a number of factors which could put on-trade operators in a good bargaining position when approaching suppliers.
The report found that continuing low inflation has allowed producers to benefit from lower feed and transport savings, highlighting a 4% reduction in the cost of producing a 5.5kg turkey as an example of a seasonal dish that could represent good value this Christmas.
John Pinder, managing director of Lynx Purchasing, said operators should “hold their nerve” and negotiate on price, despite the temptation to “agree prices being quoted by wholesalers and suppliers in order to secure supplies of core festive menu items” .
“With inflation low, and producers benefiting from lower feed and transport costs, we think there’s definitely scope for some old fashioned haggling,” said Pinder.
“As ever, operators who can keep their menus flexible and work with suppliers to feature the best value produce will see the biggest benefits. That will be particularly important once we get into 2016. The first month or so of the new year is always challenging for operators, and while none of us know what’s around the corner, we shouldn’t expect the current beneficial market conditions to last.”
