Consumers worldwide remain overwhelmingly positive about the goodness of milk, understand its nutritional value, but feel variety and convenience are not keeping pace with modern lifestyles and expectations. That is the conclusion of an international consumer study commissioned by Tetra Pak, a leading food processing and packaging company. It was published recently in the company’s 8th Dairy Index.
The study, undertaken earlier this year, highlights the need for dairy companies to revitalise the relevance of milk among consumers of all ages, through the introduction of innovative products and a fresh approach to marketing and communication.
For several years, the food industry has reported rising demand for nutritious but convenient products, fuelled by the new generation of health-conscious consumers leading ever-more active lives. People already regard milk as ‘nutritious,’ ‘healthy,’ ‘a good source of calcium,’ and ‘tasty,’ but to maintain its relevance in the modern world, producers need to innovate and develop drinks that reflect changing lifestyles.
Dennis Jönsson, president and CEO, Tetra Pak Group, commented: “The key to energising dairy in all geographies is to make people excited about drinking milk; creating new products and developing communication campaigns to show that it is convenient, pleasurable, a special treat even, and relevant to all.”
The report explores instances where dairy companies have successfully brought new drinks to market, identifying four global product trends. These trends include indulgent yet permissible treats; customised products that make milk easier to digest or provide added health benefits; drinks made for on-the-go consumption or snacking, and “pure” milk with organic or “natural” values.
In addition, the report reveals how new communication channels can be used to create successful marketing campaigns that raise awareness of the nutritional benefits of milk, whilst forging an emotional connection with people to drive consumption.
