United Kingdom Poultry Meat Market  Report | Market Size, Industry Analysis, Growth Opportunities, & Forecast (2025-2030)

United Kingdom Poultry Meat Market  Overview

The United Kingdom poultry meat market is a key segment of the country’s food industry, driven by increasing consumer demand for affordable and high-protein food sources. Poultry, including chicken, turkey, and duck, is widely consumed due to its versatility, lower fat content, and cost-effectiveness compared to other meats. The market is influenced by factors such as evolving dietary preferences, rising health consciousness, and growing interest in organic and free-range poultry products.

Stringent food safety regulations and animal welfare concerns also shape the market, with consumers demanding transparency and ethical sourcing. Additionally, the industry is adapting to trends like sustainable packaging and reduced antibiotic use. Despite challenges such as supply chain disruptions and fluctuating feed costs, the UK poultry sector continues to expand, supported by innovations in production and distribution.

Retailers, supermarkets, and foodservice providers play a significant role in market growth, with online grocery sales further boosting accessibility. As consumer preferences shift towards healthier and ethically sourced options, the poultry meat market in the UK is expected to experience steady growth in the coming years.

Market Report Coverage:

The “United Kingdom Poultry Meat Market  Report—Future (2025-2030)” by Digiroads Research & Consulting covers an in-depth analysis of the following segments in the market.

Study Assumptions and Definitions

This study on the United Kingdom Poultry Meat Market is based on key assumptions and standard industry definitions to ensure accuracy and reliability. The research considers various factors influencing market growth, including consumer demand, regulatory frameworks, supply chain dynamics, and emerging trends such as organic and free-range poultry consumption.

Assumptions:

1. Market Growth Factors – The study assumes that increasing health consciousness, demand for high-protein diets, and ethical consumerism will continue to drive market expansion.
2. Regulatory Influence – It considers the impact of UK and EU food safety regulations, animal welfare policies, and sustainability initiatives.
3. Economic Conditions – Market projections account for stable economic growth, inflation rates, and purchasing power trends.
4. Technological Advancements – The adoption of automation, improved feed quality, and sustainable packaging innovations are expected to influence the industry.
5. Consumer Behavior – Changing dietary preferences, convenience-based food choices, and online retail growth are assumed to shape demand patterns.

Definitions:

• Poultry Meat – Meat derived from domesticated birds such as chicken, turkey, and duck.
• Free-Range Poultry – Birds raised with outdoor access under ethical farming practices.
• Processed Poultry – Meat that has been marinated, pre-cooked, or packaged for convenience.
• Foodservice Sector – Restaurants, hotels, and catering businesses involved in poultry meat consumption.

Market Scope

The United Kingdom Poultry Meat Market encompasses the production, processing, distribution, and consumption of poultry meat, including chicken, turkey, and duck. The study covers various market segments based on product type, form (fresh, frozen, processed), production methods (conventional, organic, free-range), and distribution channels (supermarkets, online retail, foodservice).

This report analyzes key market drivers such as rising consumer demand for high-protein and low-fat diets, growing preference for organic and ethically sourced poultry, and advancements in sustainable packaging. Additionally, it examines the impact of government regulations, supply chain disruptions, and evolving retail trends.

The scope includes an assessment of industry growth opportunities, challenges, and competitive dynamics among poultry producers, retailers, and foodservice providers. The study provides insights into current market trends, future forecasts, and the role of technological innovations in shaping the industry. The analysis covers both domestic production and imported poultry meat products within the UK market.

MARKET OUTLOOK

Executive Summary

The United Kingdom Poultry Meat Market is a vital segment of the country’s food industry, driven by increasing consumer demand for affordable, high-protein, and versatile meat options. Poultry, particularly chicken, dominates the market due to its cost-effectiveness, lower fat content, and adaptability to various cuisines. The market is influenced by shifting consumer preferences, regulatory policies, and technological advancements in production and processing.

One of the key drivers of market growth is the rising health consciousness among consumers, leading to a surge in demand for lean meat, organic, and free-range poultry products. Ethical sourcing, animal welfare concerns, and sustainability initiatives are also shaping purchasing decisions, pushing producers to adopt transparent and eco-friendly practices. Additionally, the demand for antibiotic-free and halal-certified poultry continues to grow.

Retail distribution plays a crucial role, with supermarkets, hypermarkets, convenience stores, and online grocery platforms driving sales. The foodservice sector, including restaurants, hotels, and catering businesses, also contributes significantly to market growth. Innovations in packaging and cold chain logistics have further strengthened market accessibility.

However, the market faces challenges such as fluctuating feed costs, supply chain disruptions, and stringent food safety regulations. The ongoing push for sustainable and locally sourced poultry adds another layer of complexity to the industry. Despite these challenges, the market is poised for steady growth, supported by technological advancements in poultry farming, increased investment in processing facilities, and the expansion of e-commerce in the food industry.

Overall, the UK poultry meat market is expected to witness consistent growth in the coming years, driven by evolving consumer preferences, regulatory support, and industry innovations. Market players must focus on sustainability, quality assurance, and supply chain resilience to maintain competitiveness in this dynamic sector.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Key Market Players

• 2 Sisters Food Group

• Avara Foods

• Moy Park

• Cargill UK

• Faccenda Foods

• Banham Poultry

• PD Hook

• Crown Chicken (Part of Cranswick PLC)

• KellyBronze Turkeys

• Gressingham Foods

Market Share Analysis

The United Kingdom Poultry Meat Market is highly competitive, with a few dominant players holding a significant share. Large poultry producers such as 2 Sisters Food Group, Avara Foods, and Moy Park lead the market, supplying major supermarkets, foodservice providers, and quick-service restaurants. These companies benefit from large-scale production, advanced processing facilities, and well-established distribution networks.

2 Sisters Food Group holds the largest market share due to its extensive product range and partnerships with leading retailers such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Asda. Avara Foods follows closely, with strong retail and foodservice distribution, while Moy Park maintains a robust presence, particularly in Northern Ireland and the broader UK market.

Smaller and specialty producers like KellyBronze Turkeys and Gressingham Foods focus on niche segments, such as free-range, organic, and premium poultry products. Their market share is growing as consumer preferences shift towards ethically sourced and high-quality meat.

Private-label poultry products sold by major retailers also account for a considerable portion of sales, competing with branded offerings. Overall, the market is expected to remain dynamic, with sustainability, innovation, and consumer preferences shaping market share distribution in the coming years.

MARKET DYNAMICS

Market Drivers and Key Innovations

Market Drivers

The United Kingdom Poultry Meat Market is driven by several key factors:

1. Rising Consumer Demand for Healthy Protein – Poultry meat, especially chicken, is a preferred choice due to its high protein and low-fat content, aligning with health-conscious dietary trends.
2. Growing Popularity of Organic and Free-Range Poultry – Consumers are increasingly opting for ethically sourced and antibiotic-free poultry, boosting demand for organic and free-range products.
3. Expanding Foodservice Sector – The rise of quick-service restaurants (QSRs), casual dining, and home delivery services has increased demand for poultry-based meals.
4. Retail Growth and E-commerce Expansion – Supermarkets, hypermarkets, and online grocery platforms have made poultry meat more accessible, enhancing market reach.
5. Stringent Food Safety and Animal Welfare Regulations – Compliance with UK and EU regulations is pushing producers to adopt higher safety and welfare standards, influencing consumer trust.

Key Innovations

1. Sustainable Packaging – Companies are introducing eco-friendly packaging solutions to reduce plastic waste and improve environmental impact.
2. Precision Farming and Automation – AI-driven monitoring systems and automated poultry farming techniques are enhancing productivity and animal welfare.
3. Alternative Feed Solutions – The use of plant-based and insect-based feeds is being explored to improve sustainability and reduce dependency on traditional feed sources.
4. Enhanced Cold Chain Logistics – Improved refrigeration and storage technologies are extending product shelf life and reducing food waste.
5. Product Diversification – Innovations in ready-to-eat, marinated, and plant-based poultry alternatives are expanding consumer choices.

Market Challenges

1. Fluctuating Feed Costs – Rising prices of poultry feed, including soy and corn, impact production costs and profitability.
2. Stringent Food Safety Regulations – Compliance with UK and EU food safety, hygiene, and animal welfare laws increases operational complexities.
3. Supply Chain Disruptions – Factors such as labor shortages, transportation issues, and global trade restrictions affect poultry production and distribution.
4. Rising Demand for Ethical and Sustainable Practices – Consumers are demanding free-range, organic, and antibiotic-free poultry, pressuring producers to adapt.
5. Competition from Plant-Based Alternatives – The growing popularity of meat substitutes and lab-grown meat presents a challenge to traditional poultry consumption.
6. Disease Outbreaks and Biosecurity Risks – Avian influenza and other poultry diseases pose a threat to supply stability and market confidence.
7. Environmental Concerns – Poultry farming contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and water usage, leading to calls for more sustainable practices.
8. Retail Price Sensitivity – Inflation and economic uncertainties impact consumer spending, affecting demand for premium poultry products.
9. Brexit-Related Trade Barriers – Import/export regulations and trade restrictions post-Brexit add complexity to poultry supply chains.
10. Changing Consumer Preferences – Shifting dietary trends, including vegetarian and flexitarian lifestyles, reduce overall meat consumption.

Market Opportunities

1. Growing Demand for Organic and Free-Range Poultry – Consumers are increasingly willing to pay premium prices for ethically sourced, antibiotic-free, and organic poultry products.
2. Expansion of Online Retail and E-commerce – The rise of online grocery shopping and direct-to-consumer sales presents a significant opportunity for poultry producers and retailers.
3. Innovation in Ready-to-Eat and Convenience Foods – Increasing demand for pre-marinated, pre-cooked, and frozen poultry products offers growth potential in the convenience food sector.
4. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Packaging – Investing in biodegradable and recyclable packaging aligns with consumer preferences and environmental regulations.
5. Advancements in Precision Farming and Automation – The use of AI, IoT, and automated poultry farming techniques can improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance animal welfare.
6. Rising Popularity of High-Protein Diets – The trend of fitness-conscious consumers seeking protein-rich foods boosts demand for lean poultry products.
7. Expansion into Plant-Based and Hybrid Poultry Alternatives – Blending plant-based proteins with poultry products can appeal to flexitarian consumers.
8. Growth in the Foodservice Sector – Increasing demand from restaurants, QSRs, and catering services provides a stable revenue stream for poultry suppliers.
9. Export Opportunities – The UK poultry industry can explore new international markets to expand sales beyond domestic consumption.
10. Investment in Sustainable Poultry Farming – Implementing eco-friendly feed alternatives, water conservation, and waste management practices can improve long-term market sustainability

RECENT STRATEGIES & DEVELOPMENTS IN THE MARKET

1. Sustainability Initiatives – Major poultry producers like Avara Foods and Moy Park have invested in reducing carbon emissions and switching to renewable energy sources to meet the UK’s net-zero targets. (Source: Company Sustainability Reports 2023)
2. Expansion of Free-Range and Organic Poultry – 2 Sisters Food Group has increased its production of free-range and organic poultry to meet rising consumer demand for ethically sourced meat. (Source: Industry News 2023)
3. Investment in Automation & AI – Leading poultry processors have adopted AI-driven monitoring systems and automated production lines to enhance efficiency and biosecurity. Moy Park announced a multi-million-pound investment in smart farming technologies. (Source: Moy Park Press Release 2023)
4. Growth in E-commerce & Direct-to-Consumer Sales – Companies like Banham Poultry and Gressingham Foods have launched online retail platforms to capitalize on the growing trend of direct poultry sales. (Source: Company Websites 2023)
5. Development of Plant-Based & Hybrid Poultry Products – Cargill UK and other players are exploring hybrid meat alternatives, blending plant-based proteins with poultry to attract flexitarian consumers. (Source: Market Research Reports 2024)
6. Retail Partnerships & Private Label Growth – Supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Asda are increasing private-label poultry product offerings to provide cost-effective options for consumers. (Source: Retail Market Reports 2023)
7. Focus on Antibiotic-Free Poultry – Many poultry producers have committed to reducing antibiotic use, aligning with stricter EU and UK regulations on antibiotic resistance. (Source: UK Food Standards Agency 2023)
8. Expansion into International Markets – The UK is increasing poultry exports to the Middle East and Asia, with Cranswick PLC expanding its footprint in halal-certified poultry. (Source: UK Trade & Investment 2023)

KEY BENEFITS FOR STAKEHOLDERS

1. Poultry Producers & Farmers – Increased demand for organic, free-range, and antibiotic-free poultry provides new revenue streams and long-term sustainability.
2. Retailers & Supermarkets – Growing consumer preference for high-protein and convenience-based poultry products boosts sales, enhancing profitability and customer retention.
3. Foodservice Providers & Restaurants – Expanding poultry-based menus, including halal and ethically sourced options, attracts a wider customer base and strengthens brand loyalty.
4. Investors & Agribusiness Companies – Market expansion, technological advancements, and sustainable farming initiatives present lucrative investment opportunities.
5. Government & Regulatory Bodies – Strengthened food safety, animal welfare, and environmental policies ensure public health benefits while promoting ethical industry practices.
6. Technology & Equipment Providers – Demand for automation, precision farming, and sustainable packaging solutions opens business growth opportunities in the poultry industry.
7. Exporters & Trade Organizations – Increased global demand for UK poultry, especially halal-certified products, enhances international trade prospects.
8. Consumers – Access to healthier, high-quality, and ethically produced poultry meat, catering to diverse dietary preferences such as organic, free-range, and high-protein options.
9. Sustainability Advocates & NGOs – Market shift toward eco-friendly practices, reduced carbon footprint, and improved animal welfare aligns with long-term environmental and ethical goals.
10. Cold Chain & Logistics Providers – Rising poultry consumption and international trade drive demand for advanced cold storage and efficient distribution networks.

At DigiRoads Research, we emphasize reliability by employing robust market estimation and data validation methodologies. Our insights are further enhanced by our proprietary data forecasting model, which projects market growth trends up to 2030. This forward-thinking approach ensures our analysis not only captures the current market landscape but also anticipates future developments, equipping stakeholders with actionable foresight.

We go a step further by offering an exhaustive set of regional and country-level data points, supplemented by over 60 detailed charts at no additional cost. This commitment to transparency and accessibility allows stakeholders to gain a deep understanding of the industry’s structural and operational dynamics. By providing exclusive and hard-to-access data, DigiRoads Research empowers businesses to make informed strategic decisions with confidence.

In essence, our methodology and data delivery foster a collaborative and data-driven decision-making environment, enabling businesses to navigate industry challenges and capitalize on opportunities effectively.

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Table of Contents

• • INTRODUCTION

    • Market Overview
    • Years Considered for Study
    • Market Segmentation
    • Study Assumptions and Definitions
    • Market Scope

  • RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

  • MARKET OUTLOOK

    • Executive Summary
    • Market Snapshot
  • Market Segments 

• Product Type

• • • • Chicken, Turkey, Duck, 
      • Other Poultry

• Form

• • • • Fresh, Frozen, 
      • Processed (Marinated, Pre-cooked, Deli)

• Production Method

• • • • Conventional,
      •  Organic, Free-Range

  • COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

    • Recent Strategies (Key Strategic Moves)
    • Market Share Analysis
    • Company Profiles

• 2 Sisters Food Group

• Avara Foods

• Moy Park

• Cargill UK

• Faccenda Foods

• MARKET DYNAMICS

  • Market Drivers
  • Market Challenges
  • Market Opportunities
  • Porter’s Five Forces’ Analysis
    • Bargaining Power of Suppliers
    • Bargaining Power of Buyers
    • Threat of New Entrant
    • Threat of Substitutes
    • Competitive Rivalry

• GLOSSARY OF PROMINENT SECONDARY SOURCES

• DISCLAIMER

• ABOUT US