The growth of e-commerce has been steady since the pioneers launched their websites. Once consumers recognized that effective steps were in place for protecting customers’ private financial details they relaxed and took advantage of the convenience the Internet provided. It was easy to sit at home and buy the things they wanted. Days later they were delivered to the door; no queues. It took a little longer for shoppers to be convinced about buying perishable items but even here a combination of excellent delivery systems and convenience has started to increase the size of spending in this sector.
Origins
When it comes to food products, one of the growth areas is fresh meat. Websites that have committed themselves to informing their visitors about the range of products they have available and the origin of their meat have found a positive response from consumers. After all, there have been many questions in recent years about whether consumers are receiving accurate information from the food industry.
The popularity of halal products is also growing. There is a significant Muslim population in the UK that wants this anyway. The increased variety of international cuisine available in the UK means that diners are eating halal by the very nature of the restaurants they are patronizing. Similarly, those travelling abroad to many countries around the Mediterranean will find it is the only alternative available.
Ask
There are companies offering halal online and they are happy to discuss their products with anyone that is interested. The challenge is to devise a packaging system that will ensure the meat is in peak condition when it arrives to the customer. The meat is chilled not frozen and will arrive in that same condition for immediate use. It can also be frozen for the first time if necessary, but is it really worth stockpiling meat? A further order can be placed days later and the meat will once again arrive fresh.
Trial
Anyone that may take some convincing should simply do a ‘trial run’ and see whether the promises offered by suppliers match up. Companies that understand the meaning of service and the need to establish and retain a good reputation are very likely to deliver. There is surely nothing more convenient than having fresh good quality meat delivered to the door. Perhaps you are planning a BBQ or a dinner party with friends? The knowledge that you have a reliable meat supplier that has never let you down is reassuring. The only challenge then is to make sure your culinary skills match the quality of the meat.
The food industry is facing a few challenges at present but there are companies that are no longer under the microscope precisely because the service on offer stands up to scrutiny.
Image courtesy of rakratchada torsap/FreeDigitalPhotos.net
