DUBLIN, Ireland--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/8a02a8/europe_food_beve) has announced the addition of the "Europe Food & Beverage Sectors: A Company and Industry Analysis (August 2008)" report to their offering.

This report updates the previous European food and beverage report, focusing on the markets in Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom.

Current Environment - Key Points

- In the first half of 2008, the sector experienced weaker sales and profit growth against a backdrop of sharp rises in commodity, oil and energy prices, as well as rising inflation and interest rates

- Food manufacturers in Europe faced significant headwinds from high raw material prices which squeezed margins

European food and beverage (F&B) companies reported slower sales and profitability growth in the first half of 2008, as demand eased slightly

- The F&B stock market was sluggish over the six months from January 3, to May 16, 2008, with investors bailing out of the market

- Most leading companies reported mixed financial results in the second half of 2007 and the first quarter of 2008

- Merger and acquisition activity in Europe maintained its momentum over the last six months, albeit slower, highlighting F&B companies- abilities to push ahead with plans to expand

Industry Profile - Key Points

- The value of EU F&B exports and imports rose in 2007 as a result of growing consumer demand; this was driven by rising incomes, population growth and greater ethnic diversity

- The F&B industry is Europe's largest manufacturing sector, employing 4.1 million Europeans and accounting for 870 billion (US$1.37 trillion) of total manufacturing turnover in 2007

- Denmark, Germany, France, Italy, Spain and the UK are the leading F&B producers in the EU, representing two thirds of sector turnover

- Investment levels in the European F&B industry maintained momentum in 2007, helping to stimulate economic activity, generate employment and sustain the industry's competitiveness

- Some companies maintained their R&D capability to develop and test any potential new products, while some engaged in strategic alliances

- European F&B companies' approach to R&D generated several large-scale investments in the industry over the past six months

- Several new laws and regulations were introduced in 2007, aimed at protecting and encouraging industry growth

Market Trends and Outlook - Key Points

- Most F&B firms are absorbing higher energy, commodity and packaging costs, but are still struggling to do so

- Rising production costs is forcing F&B manufacturers to seek ways to reformulate their ingredient listings in certain products, to offset the potential for losses

- A growing awareness of the importance of maintaining good health is a major factor driving the trend towards healthier sugar and confectionery products in Europe

- The trend to reposition sugar and confectionery products as a premium, indulgent but healthy food item is picking up and will accelerate in the coming year

- European economic growth is likely to remain anemic in 2008 but prospect for the industry appears promising

- Export competitiveness will be slightly hindered by rising prices and currency fluctuations

- Investors are expected to opt for companies with the strongest propensity to stay firm amid the vagaries of the stock markets.

Key Topics Covered:

Current Environment - Sector Overview - Sector Performance - Leading Companies - Merger and Acquisition Activity Industry Profile - Industry Size and Value - Industry Focus - Research and Development - Policy and Regulatory Environment Market Trends and Outlook - Health-oriented Sugar and Confectionery Gains Popularity - Food Costs Continue to Rise - Market Outlook Country Profiles - Denmark - France - Germany - Italy - Spain - United Kingdom Currency Conversion Table The Scope of This Report Key References Comparative Data Reports Coverage

For more information visit http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/8a02a8/europe_food_beve.

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Laura Wood
Senior Manager
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