Introduction

The global meal kit market has been experiencing rapid growth in recent years, with consumers increasingly looking for convenient and healthy meal solutions. As a result, many companies have entered the market to offer branded meal kit solutions both domestically and internationally. One of the key strategies that companies use to expand their reach globally is through exporting and licensing their branded meal kit solutions. In this report, we will explore the export and licensing of branded meal kit solutions globally, looking at the key players in the market, financial data, and industry insights.

Key Players in the Market

Blue Apron

Blue Apron is one of the leading companies in the meal kit market, offering a variety of meal kit options for customers to choose from. The company has a strong presence in the United States and has also expanded its reach internationally through partnerships with local retailers and distributors. Blue Apron’s focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients and convenient meal solutions has helped it gain a loyal customer base both domestically and internationally.

HelloFresh

HelloFresh is another major player in the meal kit market, known for its wide range of meal options and flexible subscription plans. The company operates in multiple countries around the world and has a strong presence in both Europe and North America. HelloFresh’s focus on customer convenience and variety has made it a popular choice for consumers looking for easy and delicious meal solutions.

Sun Basket

Sun Basket is a meal kit company that focuses on organic, sustainable ingredients and healthy meal options. The company has a strong presence in the United States and has recently started expanding its reach internationally through strategic partnerships. Sun Basket’s commitment to quality and sustainability has helped it stand out in the crowded meal kit market.

Financial Data

According to a report by Statista, the global meal kit market was valued at $10.5 billion in 2020 and is expected to reach $20.5 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 12.8%. This growth is driven by increasing consumer demand for convenient and healthy meal solutions, as well as the rise of e-commerce and subscription-based services.

Export Revenue

Many meal kit companies generate a significant portion of their revenue through exporting their branded meal kit solutions to international markets. For example, Blue Apron reported international revenue of $31.4 million in 2020, accounting for 11% of its total revenue. HelloFresh reported international revenue of €2.8 billion in 2020, representing a significant portion of its overall revenue.

Licensing Agreements

In addition to exporting their meal kit solutions, many companies also enter into licensing agreements with local partners to expand their reach in international markets. These agreements allow companies to leverage the local expertise and distribution networks of their partners to reach a wider audience. For example, Sun Basket recently signed a licensing agreement with a major retailer in Japan to distribute its meal kits in the country.

Industry Insights

Challenges and Opportunities

While the global meal kit market presents significant opportunities for growth, it also poses challenges for companies looking to expand internationally. One of the key challenges is adapting to local tastes and preferences, as consumers in different countries have varying culinary traditions and dietary preferences. Companies must carefully tailor their meal kit offerings to suit the preferences of each market in order to succeed.

Competition

The meal kit market is highly competitive, with numerous companies vying for market share both domestically and internationally. Companies must differentiate themselves through unique offerings, such as specialty diets, organic ingredients, or gourmet options, in order to stand out in the crowded market. Additionally, companies must invest in marketing and branding efforts to build brand awareness and loyalty among consumers.

Trends

One of the key trends shaping the meal kit market is the rise of plant-based and vegetarian meal options. As consumers become more health-conscious and environmentally aware, there is a growing demand for plant-based meal solutions that are both delicious and nutritious. Companies that can offer a variety of plant-based options are well-positioned to capitalize on this trend and attract a wider audience of health-conscious consumers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the export and licensing of branded meal kit solutions globally present significant opportunities for companies to expand their reach and grow their revenue. By partnering with local retailers and distributors, companies can tap into new markets and reach a wider audience of consumers. As the global meal kit market continues to grow, companies must stay nimble and adaptive to meet the evolving needs and preferences of consumers around the world.