Heatwaves Fuel UK Foodservice Price Hike Amid Supply Chain Concerns
UK foodservice prices rose by 0.2% in July compared to June, according to data from NIQ and Prestige Purchasing.
This modest increase comes despite a 1.8% inflation rate in June, but prolonged heatwaves have put pressure on supply chains.
The drought has affected key vegetable crops including broccoli, cauliflowers, potatoes, onions, carrots, and parsnips, causing moisture stress and uncertainty about yields heading into autumn.
In contrast, domestic fruit prices fell due to strong supplies of strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, blueberries, plums, and early-season apples.
International commodity markets showed mixed trends, with wheat prices rising sharply due to Black Sea export disruptions and adverse weather. Vegetable oil prices also increased on strong biodiesel demand, while global meat markets recorded their first monthly decline of the year, although lamb prices reached record highs.