The UK’s largest survey of product innovation, Product of the Year, has opened for entries marking 20 years as one of the FMCG industry’s most influential and recognised awards.
Over the last two decades, Product of the Year has championed innovation in all its forms, with 10,000 consumers voting for their best-loved products. Contender brands have ranged from household names such as P&G, Mars and Birds Eye, to pioneering independent brands, including TRIP CBD, THIS and [SHICKEN].
New categories are added each year to reflect the trends of the fast-changing consumer goods market as well as highlighting enduring themes. The winners receive the right to use the iconic red logo on their packaging and in press coverage, TV ad campaigns and on billboards.
Each year, Product of the Year commissions research to unearth current consumer trends. In the last survey, ‘Gut health and probiotics’ was the top-ranking trend (31%), which reflects one of the most prominent themes of recent years. Kefir, kombucha and live cultures have made a strong play for consumers’ attention as people grow increasingly aware of the health benefits of fermented food and drinks. Plant-based (19%), low and no alcohol (15%), free-from (15%), grooming (13%), home-delivered boxes (11%) and most curiously, protein alternatives including mealworms and crickets (10%), all received votes respectively.
Helga Slater, MD of Product of the Year, commented: “We’re proud to be marking 20 years of product innovation and excellence. Over those years, we’ve worked tirelessly to bring the recognition that these products and brands deserve. Innovation comes in all shapes, sizes and packaging, but one thing they all have in common is that they make our daily lives that little bit easier. We are thrilled to once again start the search for these brilliant new products to give them the recognition they deserve and to announce the new categories. Watch this space.”
To enter Product of the Year 2024, click here
NAM Implications:
- Any research into consumer needs/wants can add insight…
- Along with talking points with the trade.
- Emphasis on health meets expectations…
- …although ‘protein alternatives including mealworms and crickets’ at 10% may cause some to pause.
- Still, if you don’t ask….
