Traditional stores strong in pasta

According to the Retail index of Nielsen, retail sales of pasta exceeded HUF 20 billion in April 2006 – March 2007. Sales grew by 5 per cent in terms of value. Sales in terms of volume show a decline of 3 per cent in the same period. Pasta was 12th biggest food category in the above period. Short pasta made with four eggs continued to be the most popular type, accounting for one-third of total sales. The market shares of various segments did not change noticeably. Average consumer prices rose in all segments last year. Private label products play a major role in this market, with a share of 32 per cent. The market share of imported pastas remained the same at 7 per cent in terms of volume and 6 per cent in terms of value. Sales are distributed fairly evenly among various store types, with traditional stores holding a 47 per cent market share. Hyper markets had a market share of 24 per cent, while 401–2 500 square meter stores held 29 per cent last year.