O Carrefourthe Group’s retail chain Carrefour Brazil, predicts an 11% increase in sales of fresh fish during Lent. According to the chain, growth is being driven by greater demand for salmon, which has been consolidating itself as an alternative to cod, as it combines a more competitive price and versatility in preparation, with sales now close to those of the traditional product.
The trend reflects current consumer behavior that seeks more economical options for . In this context, salmon appears more frequently in promotions and has a more competitive average cost.
For Marco Alcolezi, Executive Director of Operations at Carrefourdemand reflects consumer preference for products that offer variety and ease of preparation. “Salmon can be prepared in different ways, roasted, grilled or with sauces, which increases its daily consumption. Cod, although less prominent, has also been sought after, with options ranging from chips for less than R$60 per kilo to premium pieces that can reach almost R$200 per kilo, catering to different consumption profiles and occasions.”
The movement indicates an Easter that is increasingly less concentrated on a single item and more open to , following the tendency of Brazilians to try new products and adapt their traditions.
The Carrefour chain estimates it will sell between 2,500 and 3,000 tons of fish throughout the Lent period, a result driven by the structured and comprehensive offer in all Hiper and Super format stores. “This increase is directly aligned with the company’s global strategy. Recently, the Group’s headquarters, in France, announced the , which has as one of its central goals to significantly expand the offer of fresh products”, says the executive. The new guideline foresees a significant increase in the presence and quality of the meat and fish categories.
It is common for fish consumption to increase after Carnival, when the Lent period begins. This year sales are even stronger and in addition to salmon, a very popular fish has been tilapia.
Peixes BR, the entity that represents the sector, projects a 30% increase in tilapia trade right before Easter. The fish is already cultivated in several Brazilian states, which facilitates access to different markets. Currently, tilapia accounts for 70% of national fish production, with a volume of around 700 thousand tons.
In Ceagesp de SP, the largest warehouse in the country, tilapia is also the most sought after fish and it is estimated that during Holy Week two thousand and four hundred tons are sold.
