Q: Duncan New Zealand staff visited the European market recently. Who went, for how long and to where?
Duncan New Zealand founder and executive chairman Andy Duncan, ops and marketing general manager Rob Kidd and myself travelled to Europe for two weeks, visiting customers from Scandinavia, the Netherlands, Belgium, France and Germany.
Q: Venison has had a traditionally strong position in food service in Europe, but demand softened when Covid-19 closed restaurants. How is the food service market now for venison in Europe?
The food service market in Europe suffered badly when Covid hit, sales down well over 50% as a result of lockdowns, but it has improved significantly from the Covid years, with Covid restrictions lifted and plenty of folks returning to dining out. Demand for venison, therefore, continues to improve.
Q: How are rising energy costs and interest rates impacting retail demand for venison in Europe? Is consumer belt-tightening impacting the sale of venison in supermarkets?
We are starting to see hyperinflation and recession have an affect on consumer buying behaviour. Lamb and beef prices are softening, as consumers look for more affordable protein options, particularly in supermarkets. Venison, however, is less exposed to the belt tightening as it’s predominantly a restaurant item, and folks who can afford to dine out are less inclined to go bargain hunting on a restaurant menu.
Q: When prices for venison softened during the pandemic did any of the farmers who supply you with venison exit the deer industry to focus on a different type of land-use? Do you have a message for those farmers who stuck with deer during the pandemic market meltdown?
There are a few farmers who have reduced their deer herds to focus more on velvet, or run more sheep. There are also a few farmers that have stopped farming deer altogether, converting the land to forestry. However, there are also those deer farmers who recognised an opportunity when prices were low, choosing to buy weaners or hinds and increase their herd size. This is a great show of confidence in the future of the industry, a confidence we share and a future we are committed to.
Q: Why should venison feature on southern tables at Christmas this year?
Because it’s a delicious, healthy protein option, produced right here in New Zealand, by the best farmers in the world.
