As in many parts of Europe, in Switzerland the convenience trend has gained a foothold as well. New, trendy fresh products are appearing throughout Switzerland on the shelves of the Coop and Migros stores and other retailers. The processing industry also has to break new ground, says Schöni Swissfresh AG. This leading producer of vegetable products in Switzerland based in Oberaargau in the canton of Bern is inspired by product concepts from far and wide, to supplement its classic product selection.
In addition to producing classic sauerkraut and red cabbage, the company has been more involved in the development of new products in recent years. An example of this new company strategy is the BBQ herb, a modern attempt to place the well-tried classic vegetables on the shelf as summer barbecue products.
New products
Other initiatives are taken in the field of raw, unpasteurized, fermented products. The natural lactic acid bacteria for a healthy digestion correspond to the mega-trend regarding natural superfood. "We also recently offer raw, fermented and unpasteurized white cabbage on sauerkraut base. This, too, fits in seamlessly with the Good Food concept. Another product novelty of our company is Kimchi, a spicy-spicy vegetable mixture, which originates from the Asian kitchen. Here, our sauerkraut tradition meets the consumer trend towards international cuisine. Particularly around kimchi, we also see an interesting sales potential abroad."
Rediscovery of the tried and tested vegetable specialties
There is no trend without a counter trend, the experts will admit. Despite all modernity, traditional dishes are coming to the fore again, especially among younger consumers. "In the process, opportunities and inspirations arise for new applications and combinations, such as sauerkraut fondue. We also try to place sauerkraut as a food wastage solution. Because sauerkraut is ideal for supplementing leftovers. Pep it up and give it interesting flavors. Tastings at the point of sale are an important marketing tool for us and the industry."
For more information:
schoeni.ch holding ag 
Niedermattstrasse 30
CH-4538 Oberbipp
+41 62 788 48 28
info@schoeni.ch
www.schoeni.ch