Lifestyle

Beef is the Most Popular Grocery Purchase for Consumers, Reveals a Study

Published

5 years ago

August 22, 2019

The popularity of Beef has extended beyond the meat department. According to a recent study, the average retail basket that includes beef had more than double the sales. When there is beef in the cart, the consumers spend more and purchase more items.

Beef brought in more dollars than any other item. According to the 2019 Fresh Meat Market Basket Analysis, at more than 2% of total sales, cow meat is the most successful protein sold in stores. It is found in more than 6% of shopping carts. NCBA’s Executive Director of Meat Science and Supply Chain Outreach, Bridget Wasser said Beef is an essential item for shoppers as it is versatile in nature. It is a staple in almost all cuisine types and is purchased by all major demographic groups.

Beef steak baskets have generated even higher average cart sales at $92 compared to baskets including chicken or beef substitutes. These baskets drove 44% more total sales than baskets with chicken. There were more than 19 times the total sales of baskets with beef substitutes. Wasser added that Beef provides both a celebratory and an everyday experience- from casual burgers on the grill to celebratory steak dinners. Substitute products don’t have the range of product options that beef does. He says beef’s many uses can help drive sales storewide. Some uses are of meat carcass itself, which is driving higher sales for beef carcass companies.

Wasser has suggested retailers to consider the season in which they are selling the cow meat for additional cross- promotion opportunities. She also asked them to equip staff to answer questions on variety of topics related to it. Retailers & their staff are the first line of defense. They are a key to ensure shoppers have a great experience so they need to be educated about beef cuts, recipes and cooking methods to ensure proper assistance to consumers, she said.

Lifestyle

From Wealth to Fields: A Billionaire’s Commitment to Small Farmers

Published

2 weeks ago

July 11, 2024

Michelle Langton

In recent years, billionaire Stefan Soloviev has transitioned from the world of New York real estate to the fertile farmlands of the American West.

His journey from urban wealth to rural development showcases a unique dedication to revitalizing small farming communities and transforming the agricultural landscape.

A New Vision for Agriculture

Stefan Soloviev, son of the late real estate tycoon Sheldon Solow, has amassed a considerable amount of farmland across Colorado, Kansas, and New Mexico. Soloviev’s agricultural enterprise, Crossroads Agriculture, spans over 400,000 acres, making him one of the largest landowners in the United States.

This substantial investment is not merely a financial venture; it represents a commitment to supporting and empowering small farmers in these regions.

Soloviev’s approach to farming is characterized by his desire to move away from competitive practices that often leave small farmers struggling. Instead, he emphasizes collaboration and sustainability.

By leveraging his resources, Soloviev aims to create a farming environment where smallholders can thrive alongside larger operations. This philosophy is particularly evident in his strategic acquisition of the San Luis & Rio Grande Railroad, a critical transportation link for agricultural products in the region.

Revitalizing Rural Communities

Soloviev’s impact extends beyond farmland acquisition. His purchase of the San Luis & Rio Grande Railroad at a bankruptcy auction for $10.7 million highlights his broader vision for the agricultural sector.

This railroad, previously owned by Iowa Pacific Holdings, connects the San Luis Valley to the national rail network, facilitating the efficient transport of goods and boosting local economies.

The acquisition is seen as a positive development for the San Luis Valley, with Soloviev’s Colorado Pacific Railroad expected to be more community-focused and supportive of local initiatives compared to the previous owners. This includes potential cooperation with local recreational projects, such as the proposed Heart of the Valley Trail, which aims to integrate rail and trail use for community benefit.

Soloviev’s dedication to the region is also reflected in his willingness to work with local stakeholders to address community needs. His approach contrasts with more traditional, profit-driven business models and underscores his commitment to fostering a sustainable and inclusive agricultural ecosystem.

Building a Sustainable Future

Soloviev’s investment in the Colorado Pacific Railroad and the broader agricultural infrastructure is part of a long-term vision to create a more resilient and sustainable farming community. By improving transportation networks and providing support to small farmers, he hopes to mitigate some of the challenges these farmers face, such as market access and transportation costs.

Moreover, Soloviev’s initiatives are seen as a way to preserve and enhance the rural way of life, which is increasingly threatened by industrial farming and urban encroachment. His efforts to balance economic viability with environmental stewardship demonstrate a nuanced understanding of the complexities of modern agriculture.

In conclusion, Stefan Soloviev’s transition from urban real estate mogul to a champion of small farmers is a testament to his innovative and community-oriented approach.

His significant investments in farmland and infrastructure, coupled with a commitment to sustainability and local engagement, are paving the way for a brighter future for small farmers in Colorado and beyond. Through his efforts, Soloviev is not only transforming

the agricultural landscape but also setting a precedent for how wealth and resources can be used to foster positive change in rural communities.