Price-conscious consumers put pressure on the food market in 2027

FoodService Instituut Nederland (FSIN) expects higher consumer prices to drive most revenue growth in 2027. Sales volumes are barely growing, while consumers weigh their purchases more carefully. This puts pressure on both food retail and foodservice, the institute says. These forecasts appear in the new FSIN FoodMarkt Outlook 2027.

Revenue and volume diverge

For 2026, FSIN expects revenue to grow 2.8%, reaching €81.4 billion. Of this growth, 2.2% comes from price increases and 0.6% from volume growth. Revenue and sales volume trends differ by sales channel.

Food retail revenue is expected to grow by 2.9%. According to FSIN, sales volumes in this channel will increase by 1.4%. Foodservice revenue is expected to grow by 2.6%. By contrast, FSIN expects sales volumes in this channel to decline by 1.4%.

Higher prices drive growth

For 2027, the institute expects food market revenue to grow by 3.6%. That growth will mainly come from higher consumer prices. FSIN expects barely any growth in food retail sales volumes. Foodservice sales volumes will remain under pressure.

Foodservice prices are expected to rise by 4.5%. By comparison, the 2027 Budget Memorandum assumes inflation of 2.7%.

Fewer visits, higher spending

In food retail, consumers look for cheaper products, deals, and more affordable retail formats. In foodservice, they consider whether a visit is worth the money. The July 2026 FSIN FoodPulse indicates that consumers are visiting foodservice venues less often. However, they spend more per visit. Spontaneous visits are under pressure, but planned treats are holding up.

“Value for money doesn’t necessarily mean cheap,” says FSIN director Patrick Bramer. He points to relevant products, distinctive concepts, hospitality, convenience, and experiences. He sees opportunities even when the market is barely growing. Businesses and market segments that appeal to consumers can still grow, he says.

Fsin.nl