The Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association is taking part in a Radio 4 consumer programme this lunchtime.
The association is discussing the importance of feeding wild birds during this period of coronavirus lockdown and the associated shift in purchasing activity for their feed.
It will feature on the Radio 4 programme ‘You & Yours’ at 12.15pm, as an industry representative for bird and pet food manufacturers.
PFMA’s Sarah Hormozi, head of science and education, has revealed that in the last four weeks members have seen a huge shift in bird food sales from stores to online, and through pet shops.
SURVEY
A PFMA survey earlier this year revealed that 41% of people who have outdoor space at home like to feed the birds, most commonly buying food at the supermarket or with their groceries.
Members now reveal that the demand for bird feed remains high, but routes to purchase may have changed.
One member, a major manufacturer of bird feed, said: “The largest increase in orders has been from those who have a significant online presence. We are now in our fifth week of lockdown and, even still, the volume of orders on our system has never been higher – even at times of snow during winter or good bird populations during spring and summer.”
While another commented: “Overall, we are seeing a shift towards online purchasing, with a substantial rise in pet shop sales. It has been brilliant to see communities come together and find innovative ways for operation until we can surpass this unprecedented time.”
