Think Globally, Eat Locally

Consumers prefer local over organic food… and will pay for it

When it comes to eating, U.S. consumers are thinking locally. Buying local food is a trend that consumers have really embraced, according to A.T. Kearney's recent report "Buying into the Local Food Movement."

Consumers embrace local food options because they believe it helps local economies (66 percent), delivers a broader and better assortment of products (60 percent), and provides healthier alternatives (45 percent). And almost 30 percent of grocery shoppers say they would consider purchasing food elsewhere if their preferred store does not carry local foods. Meanwhile, trust is a major issue with consumers when purchasing local food.