57% of consumers would be willing to pay more for fruits and vegetables packaged in an environmentally-friendly material. According to a recent study carried out by the Association of Manufacturers and Distributors (AECOC), with the collaboration of the Spanish Association of Corrugated Cardboard (AFCO), sustainability is an increasingly important factor in purchase-making decisions.
Sustainability stands out as one of the great demands from the consumer. 45% of the study's respondents would like to be able to find more local products from local producers, and one in four demand the use of packaging with a lower environmental impact.
“The results of the study show us that the consumer is aware about the need to care for the environment and, therefore, appreciates the benefits of sustainable packaging. Society wants fresh products to arrive at the stores in environmentally-friendly boxes, which help preserve the product's freshness and even extend its shelf life, while being respectful to the planet and its resources. Cardboard manufacturers understand that packaging ceased to be a mere food container and we are putting all our efforts into developing solutions that contribute to improving the quality, durability, image and sustainability,” says Leopoldo Santorromán, president of AFCO.
The survey, prepared by the AECOC ShopperView platform, shows that, today, most consumers are aware of the impact of packaging and prefer their fruits and vegetables packaged in biodegradable and recyclable materials, such as paper and cardboard.
The survey reveals that 73% of Spaniards consume fruit one or more times a day, while 47% eat vegetables daily. The data shows an upward trend in consumption. 46% of respondents say they have increased their fruit purchases in recent years. In the case of vegetables, 47% have increased their consumption. One of the reasons for this growth is the emergence of new convenient and ready-to-eat products. Buying in bulk at the supermarket remains the preferred mode of purchase for 65% of consumers, followed by buying at small greengrocers.