Research and Markets: Catering Equipment Market Report 2013

DUBLIN--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/mtrtld/catering) has announced the addition of the "Catering Equipment Market Report 2013" report to their offering.

Following contraction in 2008 and 2009, the UK catering equipment market returned to growth in 2010 and 2011. Although sector value is yet to return to 2007 levels, a growth of 7.5% is estimated for 2011. The impact of the recession on the catering and hospitality industry hit the catering equipment sector hard, but it is now beginning to recover. An increase in consumer spending on eating out in 2010 and 2011 has meant caterers have had more money to spend on equipment for their premises.

The industry manufactures a wide range of products, most of which are essential for commercial catering. Customers include cafés, restaurants, pubs, school canteens, fast-food outlets and coffee shops. This Key Note Market Update divides the catering equipment market into five sectors: cooking equipment, food-handling equipment, food-preparation equipment, refrigeration equipment and other catering equipment. The first two sectors are the largest in terms of market share.

Alongside recession, the most significant factor shaping the fortunes and future of the catering equipment industry is that of environmental concerns. The trend towards products that are more energy efficient is strongly shaping new product development (NPD) and consumer demand. Those caterers that can afford the initial investment are seeking products that save energy and money over the long term. With pressure from legislation and from consumers who want to see positive environmental credentials, caterers are looking increasingly towards the manufacturer who can provide them with the most energy efficient option.

Another factor which is having a considerable impact upon the catering equipment sector is the volatility of commodity prices. Some prices, notably that of stainless steel, have risen considerably over recent years. Often the rise in the cost of production has to be passed on to the consumer without reducing sales, something which is particularly difficult to manage when consumer confidence is low.

The market is dominated by large conglomerates with global reach, such as Swedish firm Electolux and the US-based firm Middleby Corporation. Purchases by foreign companies have already lead to consolidation within the UK market. Further consolidation is expected as firms struggle against oversupply and price pressure. Sales are being driven largely by demand in emerging economies, where the expansion of the middle classes and the success of fast-food chains are supporting growth.

Key Note predicts growth of 9.5% for the sector between 2012 and 2016. This will be largely due to a combination of a growth in the catering services industry following improved economic conditions, increasing demand for energy efficient products and a rise in production costs.

Companies Mentioned

- Dawson Mmp Ltd

- Electrolux Professional Ltd

- Franke Sissons Ltd

- Itw Ltd

- Lincat Group Ltd

- Manitowoc Foodservice Uk Ltd

- Middleby Uk Ltd

- Winterhalter Ltd

For more information visit http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/mtrtld/catering