Hilton Food sees shoppers loosening purse strings

22nd Jul 2010 08:34

Meatpacker Hilton Food said shoppers may be splashing out on more expensive meats as it reported trading in line with expectations in the 28 weeks to July 18.The company, which supplies Tesco and some large mainland European supermarket chains, said it has seen volume growth across most of its markets.'Raw material pricing remains relatively stable across most of our markets,' it said.'There has also been evidence within the business of some uptrading by consumers.'Hilton said that it will continue looking to grow its business with existing customers and by considering expansion into new geographical areas.'We are pleased to have continued growing volumes across the business,' said chief executive Robert Watson. 'Although there may be further economic challenges ahead, we believe that Hilton will continue to make progress during the second half of the year.'